Advancing Muscle Physiology Research: The Role of EMG, MRI and Imaging Technologies
A special issue of Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology (ISSN 2411-5142). This special issue belongs to the section "Functional Anatomy and Musculoskeletal System".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 19
Special Issue Editor
Interests: musculoskeletal disorders; neuromusculoskeletal differential diagnosis; lumbar stabilization; ultrasound imaging in research and practice; electromyography; manual therapy effects; exercise interventions
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
EMG, MRI, and ultrasound provide complementary insights into muscle physiology by linking neural activation, tissue structure, and mechanical function. Electromyography, including electrodiagnostic techniques such as nerve conduction studies and needle EMG, evaluates how effectively nerves activate muscles and helps identify neuropathies, myopathies, or impaired motor unit recruitment. However, EMG alone cannot reveal underlying structural changes within the muscle or nerve.
MRI and ultrasound address this gap by providing visualization of muscle size, architecture, edema, and fat infiltration. These measures show whether the muscle has the structural capacity to generate force or is affected by injury, aging, or disease. Ultrasound provides real-time functional context by capturing fascicle behavior, tendon stiffness, and dynamic architectural changes during movement.
Together, these modalities allow researchers and clinicians to connect neural drive, muscle tissue health, and mechanical output, greatly expanding diagnostic and research capability. This Special Issue aims to provide a platform for researchers to share contemporary evidence generated from the integration of imaging and electromyography. Original articles, reviews, and case reports may be submitted to this Special Issue.
Prof. Dr. George J. Beneck
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- electromyography
- muscle denervation
- neuropathy
- magnetic resonance imaging
- ultrasound imaging
- shear wave elastography
- muscle architecture
- motor unit activity
- rehabilitation
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