- Myoton community
-
Did you know
Did you know
Here are some useful hints and recommendations to enhance the device and software efficiency.
![Liis Peipsi](https://community.myoton.com/storage/profile-photos/l5UD6lCfWMO5DXrK1lSLbbR6be1fHt9ZpSFP4h3s.jpg)
Measurement depth
Every measurement location has its unique depth of measurement depending on the oscillating tissue's elasticity and the dissipation of oscillation frequency. The higher the elasticity and more gradual the dissipation of mechanical energy of the oscillation, the further the impulse wave spreads, meaning the greater the depth of measurement.
Average depth of measurement for adipose tissue is estimated to be around 20mm. For skeletal muscles and tendons, depth of measurement is noticeably greater as the impulse wave spreads further due to the dissipation of tissue oscillation being more gradual.
As for skeletal muscles underneath a thick layer of adipose tissue, as a first measure, it is recommended to choose muscles with the least amount of adipose tissue covering them (if possible) to ensure the impulse reaches the muscle. However, when in doubt, measurement depth can be verified by conducting a test measurement with the muscle of interest at full rest vs slightly to moderately contracted. For this purpose, a test measurement with a single impulse can be conducted for both states of muscle activation.
If the second measurement with the muscle contracted reflects higher oscillation frequency and stiffness than the first measurement (e.g. F 14Hz vs 16Hz; S 250N/m vs 300N/m), then the higher values for oscillation frequency and stiffness are due to muscle activation - thus confirming the measurement impulse reaches the muscle and subsequently the muscle response to the measurement impulse reaches back to the device probe.
![Liis Peipsi](https://community.myoton.com/storage/profile-photos/l5UD6lCfWMO5DXrK1lSLbbR6be1fHt9ZpSFP4h3s.jpg)
Reference values
Researchers collect their own norms, such as individual norms or base levels for further comparisons. Using the device regularly allows for gaining such experience quickly. Depending on the research being conducted, healthy controls, placebo groups or the unaffected side in patients presenting with a unilateral condition can serve as a reference.
Typically, most superficial skeletal muscles of a healthy adult with the muscle of interest at full rest range from:
Oscillation frequency: 13...15 Hz;Stiffness: 200...350 N/m (m. tibialis anterior usually presents with above average stiffness).
Quantitative values of measurement results are influenced by the following factors:
Muscle activation level (measure at full rest only as it allows for repeatability, the exact level of muscle contraction is not reliably repeatable);Measurement point location (above muscle belly);Muscle length (agonist and antagonist in balance, avoid full extension);Body position (always prefer lying (if possible), this allows for full relaxation and easy repeatability);Physical condition, general health status, medical condition, lifestyle, sports, occupation;Fatigue and recovery status at the given moment;BMI and adipose layer thickness;Age, gender, blood pressure, stress level, temperature.It is crucially important to always use the same conditions and a standardised setup when collecting measurements.
The development of reference values is a challenging task but can certainly be accomplished. The project would require international scientific collaboration to establish and describe classification criteria. A large multi-centre study is necessary with data collected from diverse populations.
![Liis Peipsi](https://community.myoton.com/storage/profile-photos/l5UD6lCfWMO5DXrK1lSLbbR6be1fHt9ZpSFP4h3s.jpg)
Tap time / Impulse time
The default impulse time of 15 ms is suitable for all tissue structures with a thickness above 5 mm and a stiffness below 500 N/m. A decrease in impulse time is necessary for stiffer less compliant tissue structures (i.e. tendons, ligaments).
With the aim of improving tissue response to the measurement impulse, the latest model MyotonPRO 1B automatically reduces impulse time for stiffer tissue structures as follows:
15 ms, standard impulse time – Suitable for tissue structures such as adipose tissue and skeletal muscles with a Stiffness (S) below 500 N/m;13 ms – S 500 N/m…700 N/m;10 ms – S 700 N/m…1400 N/m;7 ms – S 1400 N/m…2000 N/m.
The previous MyotonPRO model allows for manual reduction of impulse time (also known as Tap time). The above mentioned values should be taken into consideration.
![Aleko Peipsi](https://community.myoton.com/storage/profile-photos/qDZYT49E29U0iiNp9xLTPewUDsEe6bZdR7YEPxQT.jpg)
Guidelines for Dual-Hand Operation of the MyotonPRO Device
The measurement position's axial range is 3.0mm wide, necessitating good control. To facilitate this, gently hold the device with your dominant hand and perform micro-adjustments using your wrist. Simultaneously support and stabilize your dominant arm using your other hand, ensuring that the device remains steady within the required range.
For accurate positioning, the MyotonPRO device is equipped with three indicators:
1. Green Probe Light: Indicates when you are entering or leaving the measurement position.
2. Probe Marker: A 3mm-wide marker on the probe serves as a visual guide to the measurement postion.
3. On-screen Instructions: Clear instructions such as 'Move into position!', 'Hold position!', and 'Move back!' to assist in the measurement process.
While conducting measurements, it is important to keep focus on contact between the probe and the skin to avoid any lateral movement. Simultaneously, make use of the green light and the probe marker as guides for axial position of the device. This approach not only helps in maintaining proper contact between the probe and the skin but also facilitates convenient axial control of the measurement position.
Note: For optimal results, aim to position the device so that the probe marker is halfway exposed at the probe opening, indicating the center of the measurement range.
Employing the described technique ensures effective and precise operation of the MyotonPRO device, contributing to the utmost reliability of the results.
The accompanying images illustrate this instruction.
![Aleko Peipsi](https://community.myoton.com/storage/profile-photos/qDZYT49E29U0iiNp9xLTPewUDsEe6bZdR7YEPxQT.jpg)
Creating a New Database in Myoton Software
1. Open Myoton Software: Launch the application on your computer.
2. Open Connected Database Location: Click on the Database icon located on the main toolbar.
3. Rename Connected Database: Modify the existing database name to suit your project and click OK. These steps allow you to create as many databases as needed, for example, one for each project.
Database Name: Choose a name that reflects your project title. It allows you to keep measurement results from different projects separate, enhancing data management.
Flexibility and Efficiency: You can easily switch between databases as needed. Additionally, the Myoton software offers the capability to merge or combine multiple databases. This feature is particularly beneficial for multi-center studies, allowing you to consolidate sub-databases from various sites into one comprehensive database. This step may be beneficial before conducting final data analysis and statistics.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively organize your data in the Myoton software, enhancing your workflow, allowing the software to operate with smaller database sizes. Moreover, it is also safer to keep different projects in separate database files.
![Aleko Peipsi](https://community.myoton.com/storage/profile-photos/qDZYT49E29U0iiNp9xLTPewUDsEe6bZdR7YEPxQT.jpg)
Standardization aspects
Here are some aspects to follow:
Skeletal muscles and tendons should be measured at full rest (EMG signal silent);Preferably, the subject should be in a lying position to ensure full relaxation and consistent repeatability between sessions.Schedule measurement sessions before, rather than after, any interventions or physical exercise.Conduct measurements at room temperature for optimal results;Ensure consistent identification of anatomical measurement points in interest;Avoid physical contact with the tissue being measured (except the device probe);Avoid distractions during the measurement;Avoid tight clothing which may influence results;Minimize direct contact with the subject, allowing only necessary contact for operator and device stabilization;Make sure the device probe is held perpendicular to the skin surface;Ensure the device is gently held with both hands for optimal stabilization.