Concurrent Augmented Feedback and Isometric Force Generation during Familiar and Unfamiliar Muscle Movements

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Abstract
To evaluate the effect of concurrent augmented feedback on isometric force output during familiar and unfamiliar muscle movements, 18 men and 21 women, 18 to 23 years of age, completed two isometric exercises: flexion of the thumb (a familiar muscle movement) and abduction of the fifth digit (an unfamiliar movement). The exercises consisted of 10 maximum voluntary isometric contractions lasting 10 s each and separated by 10-s intertrial rest intervals. Concurrent visual feedback was provided during alternate contractions. The order of exercises and trials for feedback was randomly assigned and balanced over subjects. Peak force output during abduction of the fifth digit was significantly (p less than or equal to .01) greater with (4.4 +/- 0.29 kg) than without feedback (4.1 +/- 0.26 kg). Feedback did not influence (p greater than .05) peak force output during thumb flexion (23.2 +/- 1.09 kg vs 22.5 +/- 1.05 kg). Muscular fatigue was more pronounced during thumb flexion without feedback (18.4 +/- 1.17%) than when feedback was provided (11.8 +/- 1.36%). These data suggest that fatigue may increase the effect of feedback on force generation during familiar muscular movements. To obtain maximal isometric force measures during strength testing, augmented feedback should be provided.