Neuromuscular Determinants of Locomotor Fatigability
Session Number
3
Advisor(s)
Julie Olson, Andrew Sawers, University of Illinois Chicago
Location
A147
Discipline
Medical and Health Sciences
Start Date
15-4-2026 2:15 PM
End Date
15-4-2026 3:00 PM
Abstract
Locomotor fatigue is a common challenge for traumatic transtibial prosthesis users (TTPUs), but the neuromuscular factors that contribute to this problem are not yet very well understood. Previous studies show that TTPUs fatigue more frequently than unimpaired adults during walking tasks, but these differences cannot be completely explained by typical clinical variables. This suggests that other mechanisms may play an important role in this, particularly muscle activation. Surface electromyography (EMG) provides a direct way to examine these mechanisms by capturing the electrical signals produced by hip muscles while in movement. EMG allows us to measure co-contraction, determine activation timing, and observe how muscles respond as fatigue develops. Since TTPUs rely more heavily on their hip muscles to compensate for the loss of their ankle function, EMG patterns may help explain their increased fatigability. This project aims to compare neuromuscular determinants of locomotor fatigability between unilateral TTPUs and controls, mainly focusing on muscle co-contractions. By identifying whether these EMG measures differ between groups, this study will clarify mechanisms that contribute to earlier fatigue. This will help for future development of target rehabilitation strategies and reduce fatigue for prosthesis users.
Neuromuscular Determinants of Locomotor Fatigability
A147
Locomotor fatigue is a common challenge for traumatic transtibial prosthesis users (TTPUs), but the neuromuscular factors that contribute to this problem are not yet very well understood. Previous studies show that TTPUs fatigue more frequently than unimpaired adults during walking tasks, but these differences cannot be completely explained by typical clinical variables. This suggests that other mechanisms may play an important role in this, particularly muscle activation. Surface electromyography (EMG) provides a direct way to examine these mechanisms by capturing the electrical signals produced by hip muscles while in movement. EMG allows us to measure co-contraction, determine activation timing, and observe how muscles respond as fatigue develops. Since TTPUs rely more heavily on their hip muscles to compensate for the loss of their ankle function, EMG patterns may help explain their increased fatigability. This project aims to compare neuromuscular determinants of locomotor fatigability between unilateral TTPUs and controls, mainly focusing on muscle co-contractions. By identifying whether these EMG measures differ between groups, this study will clarify mechanisms that contribute to earlier fatigue. This will help for future development of target rehabilitation strategies and reduce fatigue for prosthesis users.