Use of surface electromyography to estimate neck muscle activity

This paper reviews the literature concerning the use of surface electromyog raphy (sEMG) for the study of the neck musculature in response to work and workplace design during light work and semi-static tasks. The paper also dr aws upon basic research and biomechanical modeling in order to provide meth odological recommendations for the use of surface electromyography in this region of the body and to identify areas which require further investigatio n. The paper includes review and discussion of electrode site location, met hods of normalization, data reliability, and factors that can affect sEMG s ignals from this region, including noise, physiologic artifact, stress, vis ual deficiencies, and pain. General guidance for maximum exertions with the neck musculature, for sEMG normalization or other purposes, is also includ ed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.