Comparison of the electromyographic activity of the tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius in stroke patients and healthy subjects during squat exercise

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the EMG activity of the tibialis anterior (TA) and gastrocnemius (GCM) during the downward, maintenance, and upward phases of the squat exercise and during passive ankle dorsiflexion range of motion between stroke patients and healthy subjects. [Subjects] Fifteen hemiplegic (8 males, 7 females) and 15 healthy subjects (4 males, 11 females) volunteered for this study. [Methods] All subjects performed a double-leg squat exercise with the knee joint flexed to 30°. Surface electromyography (EMG) signals were recorded from the TA and GCM on the paretic or nondominant side. Passive ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (DF PROM) was measured using a goniometer in the knee-extended prone position. [Results] In the downward and maintenance phases, TA activity was significantly higher in stroke patients compared with healthy subjects. In the upward phase, GCM activity was significantly lower in stroke patients compared with healthy subjects. Ankle DF PROM was significantly lower in stroke patients compared with healthy subjects. [Conclusion] The observed EMG patterns should be taken into consideration to inform and enhance therapy for stroke patients.