Assessment of muscle stiffness using a continuously scanning laser‐Doppler vibrometer |
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| Authors: | Muhammad Salman PhD Karim G Sabra PhD Minoru Shinohara PhD |
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| Institution: | 1. School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, , Atlanta, Georgia, 30332‐0356, USA;2. School of Applied Physiology, Georgia Institute of Technology, , Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
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| Abstract: | Introduction: A stand‐alone and low‐cost elastography technique has been developed using a single continuously scanning laser Doppler vibrometer. Methods: This elastography technique is used to measure the propagation velocity of surface vibrations over superficial skeletal muscles to assess muscle stiffness. Results: Systematic variations in propagation velocity depending on the contraction level and joint position of the biceps brachii were demonstrated in 10 subjects. Conclusions: This technique may assist clinicians in characterizing muscle stiffness (or tone) changes due to neuromuscular disorders. Muscle Nerve 50 : 133–135, 2014 |
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| Keywords: | elastography laser vibrometry muscle stiffness skeletal muscles surface waves |
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