Article

In dynamic H-reflex measurements, the standardisation of the nerve stimulation to
the gait cycle is crucial to avoid misinterpretation due to altered pre-synaptic
inhibition. In this pilot study, a plantar pressure sole was used to trigger the
stimulation of the tibialis nerve with respect to the gait cycle. Consequently,
the intersession reliability of the soleus muscle H-reflex during treadmill
walking was investigated. Seven young participants performed walking trials on a
treadmill at 5 km/h. The stimulating electrode was placed on the tibial nerve in
the popliteal fossa. An EMG was recorded from the soleus muscle. To synchronize
the stimulus to the gait cycle, initial heel strike was detected with a plantar
pressure sole. Maximum H-reflex amplitude and M-wave amplitude were obtained and
the Hmax/Mmax ratio was calculated. Data reveals excellent reliability, ICC=0.89.
Test-retest variability was 13.0% (+/-11.8). The Bland-Altman analysis showed a
systematic error of 2.4%. The plantar pressure sole was capable of triggering the
stimulation of the tibialis nerve in a reliable way and offers a simple technique
for the evaluation of reflex activity during walking.
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Langue : ANGLAIS