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Biomedical subjects

M O Mundale

Publications and source records attributed to M O Mundale.

6 recordsLinked to original sources

Electromyographic study of muscular overflow during precision handgrip.

This study was designed to describe the "overflow" of muscular activity to muscles beyond the essential prime mover and synergists during a precision handgrip exercise. Five subjects performed a 10-minute isometric handgrip exercise consisting of one-second contractions alternated with one-second rests. Four different force levels were assigned: 5, 15, 25, and 40 percent of each subject's maximum handgrip force. All subjects demonstrated overflow activity at the 5-percent level, and three of the five subjects showed more overflow at the 5-percent level than at 15 percent. The greatest amount of overflow was shown at the 40-percent level. No striking interindividual or intraindividual consistency in recruitment order of overflow muscles was apparent. Two distinguishable types of overflow were observed: continuous overflow was the characteristic type at the lower force levels, whereas an interrupted pattern of overflow synchronized to the handgrip contraction was typical of the higher force levels. The possible effects of overflow on precision motor skills are discussed.

Adult↗

Muscle formation in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a familial connective tissue disorder characterized by marked joint hypermobility, skin hyperdistensibility and fragility. To determine the influence of connective tissue hyperdistensibility on muscle function, a young woman with classic EDS underwent extensive muscle function testing which included a controlled strengthening exercise program. Quantitative muscle strength testing revealed generalized muscle weakness characteristic of this disease. The strength-length relationship curve for quadriceps was shifted, implying an increased series elastic component of muscle. No inherent muscle abnormality was evident from electromyography and serum enzyme evaluation. Unusual fluctuation in maximal isometric strength output curves was found in all tested groups. A functional proprioceptive deficit was demonstrated and found correctable with training and visual compensation. Reduced joint proprioception, plus the tendency for minor subluxations from daily activities, resulted in a learned motor pattern that emphasized short jerky motions rather than sustained precise muscular contractions. From these findings, muscle function in EDS was hypothesized to be affected by connective tissue distensibility.

Adult↗

Muscular strength as an index of response to therapy in childhood dermatomyositis.

Dermatomyositis, an inflammatory disease of unknown etiology, causes diffuse symmetrical weakness and atrophy, muscular pain and tenderness, induration of muscles, and the tendency to develop contractures. The disease may follow a prolonged course which can best be managed with steroids and regulation of physical activity if there is an objective criterion for determining the extent of clinical involvement. In 6 children with dermatomyositis, quantitative muscular strength was compared with clinical evaluation of the state of the disease, serum enzyme levels, and other laboratory measures of systemic inflammation. Quantitative evaluation of ankle plantar flexor strength by the method of Beasley or handgrip force by the method of Mundale indicated that muscular strength provided a better criterion for the clinical status of the patient than any of the other laboratory tests studied. In dermatomyositis, the inflammation is equally great in distal and proximal muscles when tested quantitatively. These tests, when used together with enzyme levels and clinical evaluation, permit more effective management of dermatomyositis in children.

Adolescent↗