Cram’s Introduction To Surface Electromyography

Book Preface

What is surface electromyography? Surface electromyography (SEMG) is a field specializing in the use of electronic devices to measure the energy of the muscles, to analyze the data, and to display the results. Surface electromyography rests on the practitioner’s understanding of anatomy, physiology, and the instrumentation. It is an example of applied psychophysiology: the use of psychophysiological knowledge and skills in the evaluation and treatment or training of individuals presenting with psychophysiological complaints or goals. Surface electromyography is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses contributions from electronics, medicine, anatomy, physiology, psychology, psychophysiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, ergonomics, and so forth.

Surface EMG has many applications, including assessment, treatment planning, evaluation of progress and outcomes, rehabilitation, worksite ergonomic design, sports training, and research. This technology helps differentiate between beliefs about muscle function and actual function, and is used in evaluation and rehabilitation. Surface electromyography is used with patients and clients by physical therapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, dental professionals, biofeedback trainers, stress management consultants, corporate safety consultants, sports psychologists, arts medicine practitioners, ergonomics consultants, and somatics educators/practitioners, among others. The feedback provided by this technique works best when combined with other therapies. Regardless of how SEMG is being used, a solid foundation in the principles of SEMG is necessary to be effective.

There were 14 chapters in the first edition of this book; there are 17 chapters in this second edition. In the second edition, 13 of the original chapters, the SEMG atlas, and the appendices remain. Chapter 14, “Surface Electromyography Past, Present, and Future,” has been rewritten to reflect progress in the field. New chapters by Jeffrey R. Cram, Maya Durie, Eleanor Criswell, and Marek Jantos have been added as well. An emphasis on somatics has been included in the second edition at Jeffrey Cram’s request