Affiliations: [a] Myosymmetries, #300, 290 Midpark Way S.E., Calgary, AB T2X 1P1, Canada | [b] 92 North Fourth Street, Martins Ferry, OH 43935, USA | [c] Myosymmetries International, Unit 230, 156 St., 87 Ave., Edmonton, AB T5R 5W9, Canada
Correspondence:
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Address for correspondence: Stuart Donaldson, Ph.D., #300, 290 Midpark Way S.E., Calgary, AB T2X 1P1, Canada. Tel.: +1 403 225 0900; Fax: +1 403 225 2389; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: This study examined the electrical characteristics (Root Mean Square – RMS and median frequency) of Diffuse Muscular Coactivation (DMC) associated with the tender points of fibromyalgia. DMC is defined as an increase from resting levels (tonus) in the electrical activity of any muscle during a movement which does not involve that muscle and is not part of the agonist – antagonist unit. The results show an increase in RMS in fibromyalgia sufferers as compared to controls. Coactivation was stronger proximal to the neck and decreased in intensity as the area recorded moved distally. Median frequency changed over time but not significantly between groups. Possible neurological mechanisms are discussed.
Keywords: fibromyalgia, muscle activity, coactivation, electromyography, root mean square, median frequency
