earticle

영어

Purpose: This study introduces a methodological framework for muscle synergy analysis to enhance the understanding of sports rehabilitation researchers regarding its practical applications. This work is intended to provide clinicians with a practical understanding of muscle synergy analysis and promote its effective application in rehabilitation. Methods: Muscle synergy refers to the concept of explaining muscle coordination during movements as a combination of a limited number of modules (synergies), thereby offering a powerful approach for quantifying muscle activation patterns. In this framework, electromyography (EMG) signals are decomposed using a nonnegative matrix factorization algorithm, and the optimal number of synergies is determined based on the “variance accounted for” criterion. Each synergy represents a distinct group of muscles, specifying their activation timing and relative contributions throughout movement. To facilitate comprehension, we present a case study employing simulated two-channel EMG data, assuming a single synergy. Results: The dataset included five different signal patterns reflecting proportional, inverse, and independent relationships, mimicking real-world EMG signals observed in sports and clinical settings. Conclusion: This work is intended to provide clinicians with a practical understanding of muscle synergy analysis and promote its effective application in rehabilitation.