Effects of Physical Fatigue onto Brain Rhythms

The present study attempt to investigate the changes of the electroencephalogram (EEG) rhythms due to physical fatigue. Three different methods to enhance EEG signals have been applied. Aside from the Referential method, the Common Average Reference method as well as the Current Source Density method has been applied to the raw data prior to processing. Ten subjects participated in this study. They are required to grab a dynamometer for 30 sets of 30 seconds with both hands. The results indicated an increase in the θ frequency band at the posterior region, wide spread increase of the lower α frequency band as well as an increase in the β frequency at the left motor cortex region. It should be noted that the β frequency component is probably part of the μ rhythm which is associated with motor control. Keywords— Electroencephalogram, Physical fatigue, Current Source Density, Common Average Reference.