The effect of finger tip contact on the electromyography activity of ankle muscles

Objective: To investigate the effect of the light touch, vision and dual task interference on the surface electromyography (sEMG) activity of ankle muscles. Methodology: Thirty right handed healthy persons stood in an upright and semi-tandem position and pressed the sensor plate in a rate less than 50 gr. sEMG activity was measured in three muscles (Tibialis Anterior, Proneus Longuse and Soleuse on both lower limbs by Biometrics sEMG). Four positions were considered in semi-tandem standing i.e.: 1) No Touch, No Counting; 2) No Touch, Counting; 3) Light Touch, No Counting; 4) Light Touch, Counting. Each of the above positions was tested in two positions by means of Eyes Open, Eyes Closed. Results: sEMG activity of the ankle muscles was lower in the tight touch contact (LTC) (P<0.05), but higher during no-counting than counting (P<0.05). Conclusions: LTC and the concentration on counting, stimulate the Central Nervous System for activating the postural muscles of hip and trunk. So the amount of imposed force on ankle muscles will be reduced.