• E A Andersson, L I E Oddsson, H Grundström, J Nilsson, and A Thorstensson.
• Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute and Department of Sport and Health Science, University College of Physical Education and Sports, Stockholm, Sweden.
• Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon). 1996 Oct 1; 11 (7): 392-400.

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to provide new information on the myoelectrical activation of the quadratus lumborum, the deep lateral and the superficial medial lumbar erector spinae, the psoas, and the iliacus muscles in various motor tasks. DESIGN: An intramuscular electromyographic study was performed. BackgroundThe contribution of individual deep trunk muscles to the stability of the lumbar spine is relatively unknown in different tasks, including the flexion-relaxation phenomenon. MethodsSeven healthy subjects participated. Fine-wire electrodes were inserted with a needle guided by ultrasound. ResultsThe highest activity observed for quadratus lumborum and deep lateral erector spinae occurred in ipsilateral trunk flexion in a side-lying position and for superficial medial erector spinae during bilateral leg lift in a prone position. Quadratus lumborum and deep lateral erector spinae were activated when the flexion-relaxation phenomenon was present for superficial medial erector spinae, i.e. when its activity ceased in the latter part of full forward flexion of the trunk, held relaxed and kyphotic. ConclusionsIn general, the activation of the investigated muscles showed a high degree of task specificity, where activation of a certain muscle was not always predictable from its anatomical arrangement and mechanical advantage.

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