Lumbar mechanics from ultrasound imaging

Authors

  • Geoffrey Desmoulin School of Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
  • Theodore Milner School of Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, 8888University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada

Keywords:

Cables, Electrodes, Mechanics, Muscle, Regression analysis, Thickness measurement, Anchored cables, Lumbar mechanics, Non-superficial muscles, Ultrasound resolution

Abstract

The feasibility of estimating lumbar mechanics in-vivo was evaluated using ultrasound imaging. Images were obtained while subjects were seated, with the pelvis fixed, and pulled on an anchored cable by isometrically contracting trunk muscles at different force levels. Linear regression analysis was used to identify ultrasound measurements which were correlated with trunk force. Results suggest that ultrasound is more suitable for estimating lumbar mechanics during lateral flexion than extension of the trunk. A linear trend was found between changes in thickness of some muscles and trunk force, which could provide an alternative to invasive intramuscular electrodes for measuring the activity of non-superficial muscles. A significant limitation, however, is that the magnitude of the changes were frequently very close to the ultrasound resolution.

Additional Files

Published

2007-06-01

How to Cite

1.
Desmoulin G, Milner T. Lumbar mechanics from ultrasound imaging. Canadian Acoustics [Internet]. 2007 Jun. 1 [cited 2024 Mar. 28];35(2):61-8. Available from: https://jcaa.caa-aca.ca/index.php/jcaa/article/view/1879

Issue

Section

Technical Articles