| The purpose of the study was to assess the lower limb muscle activity and the lower extremity volume changes associated with two motion types-running and walking and two angles of inclination-0% and 5%. The muscle activity was quantified using EMG in the time domain and the corresponding lower limb volume, shank circumference and skin temperature changes were recorded with a foot volumeter, gulick tape and an infrared thermometer to assess the fluid shifts in the lower extremity. The results found a significant effect of only motion type on lower extremity muscle activity with running leading to greater muscle contractions. Running motion also resulted in a significantly greater shank circumference increase compared to walking and surface inclination elicited a significantly greater shank circumference compared to level surface. The volumetry results also followed a similar trend, however the results were not significant. The greatest increase in lower extremity volume appeared in running at 5% incline, while walking at 0% inclination resulted in the least increase. Based on the variables, inferences were drawn regarding the pattern of fluid shifts in the lower extremity on account of these activity-incline combinations. The research will provide invaluable insights in rehabilitation, physiotherapy, fatigue prevention and in the design of prosthetics, compression tights, sports shoes and industrial jobs. |
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