Zero crossing rate of electromyograms during occupational work and endurance tests as predictors for work related myalgia in the shoulder/neck region

The relationship between electromyographic signs of fatigue (ESF) during work and occupation-related myalgia in the shoulder/neck region was investigated in a longitudinal study. Forty-three healthy female assembly workers were studied over 2 years. Measurements were performed at the start of the study with follow-up measurements after 1 and 2 years. The ESF were estimated as the zero crossing rate of electromyograms (EMG) detected during short test contractions performed during short breaks in normal work. As a complement, an endurance test using EMG records was performed and analysed with the zero crossing technique. The occurrence of shoulder/neck disorders was assessed by a clinical investigation and a questionnaire. No significant relationship between ESF during work in year 0 and deterioration of the disorder was seen. On the other hand, the absolute zero crossing rate and the time constant of the zero crossing decline from the endurance test showed a significant relationship with deterioration of the disorder. The ESF during work year 2, showed a significant relationship with disorder year 2, while the endurance test parameters year 2 did not. It was concluded that ESF during work was not a predictor of muscle injury, whereas it could be useful as a diagnostic tool.