A Neurophysiological Pattern as a Precursor of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Using EEG Combined with EMG

We aimed to determine the neurophysiological pattern that is associated with development of musculoskeletal pain induced by biomechanical constraints. Twelve (12) young healthy volunteers (two females) performed two experimental realistic manual tasks for 30 min each: (1) high risk and (2) low development. During tasks, synchronized electroencephalographic (EEG) electromyography (EMG) signals data were collected, as well scores. Subsequently, main variables computed from signals: cortical inhibition Task-Related Power Increase (TRPI) in beta EEG frequency band (?.TRPI) muscle variability Coefficient Variation (CoV) EMG signals. A strong effect size was observed measurement under condition during last 5 task execution; fatigue, because CoV has decreased below 18%. An increase (?.TRPI >50%) after 5th both conditions. These results suggest following pattern—?.TRPI ? 50% ? 18%—as a possible indicator monitor shoulder context repeated prolonged exposure tasks.