The HUMAC NORM isokinetic dynamometer is the gold standard for muscle strength testing. Similar systems are widely used in sports medicine clinics, physical therapy offices, and human performance laboratories. This device allows for high-fidelity measurement of strength across different joint angles and speeds during concentric, eccentric, and isometric contractions. It can be used in a variety of conditions and exercise modes and is one of the primary tools used in our studies focused on strength and muscle performance.

A 16-channel Delsys​ research plus system provides great flexibility in non-invasively collecting many physiologic signals simultaneously. Currently, we have 8 seperate Avanti sEMG sensors, 2 additional Gallelio sEMG grid sensors, and 2 seperate auxillary sensors (5V analog & load cell). These sensors are used to wirelessly collect data from our participants. Specifically, these devices are placed on the surface of the skin in order to detect myoelectric signals produced during various muscle contractions. This device is often used in conjunction with the isokinetic dynamometer.

The GE LOGIQ E, Brightness-mode device is a portable and compact ultrasound imaging system. Ultrasound imaging systems use non-invasive high-frequency sound waves to produce images of various internal systems (i.e., organs, skeletal muscle) in real-time. It is commonly used in medical and research settings. This device features a variety of imaging modes including B-mode, M-mode, Color Flow Doppler, and Power Doppler. Additionally, this unit has LOGIQ view (GE's proprietary Extended Field of View function) which allows for the ability to image areas that are larger than the field of view of the 6cm linear-array ultrasound probe. In other words, we are able to quickly assess metrics of muscle morphology for the upper- and lower-body regardless of the size or location with this state-of-the-art imaging device. 

The Digitimer DS7R is a  high-performance constant-current (400V) stimulator that is designed for various research and clinical applications. The stimulator generates electrical pulses of varying duration, frequency, and amplitude, and can be used to stimulate a wide range of tissue types, including muscle and nerve. The DS7R features include a fully isolated output stage, dual-mode pulse width control, and many safety features. Also within the laboratory is a Digitimer DG2A, a train/delay Generator. This device is used in conjunction with the DS7R to generate precise and accurate timing of electrical pulses with further control on the duration, repetition, and delay of the stimulation delivery.  

​

These devices are used in some studies when we are studying the properties of myo- and/or neuro-electrical responses (i.e., M-wave, H-Reflex). 

The ImpediMed SFB7 is a non-invasive bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) device tailored for comprehensive body composition assessments. It utilizes low-level electrical currents to measure impedance through body tissues, offering insights into fat-free mass, body fat, and total body water. With precision and efficiency, the SFB7 aids in monitoring changes in body composition and hydration status.  The SFB7 plays a critical role in studies exploring myo- and neuro-electrical responses. Most recently, our group has aimed to use this BIS device to serve as a novel measure of regional muscle quality. 

The transcranial magnetic stimulator (TMS) by MagStim is a non-invasive neuromodulation tool that uses brief, focused, magnetic pulses to influence cortical excitability. By generating controlled electromagnetic fields over targeted regions of the brain, this sytem allows NOPL to probe causal relationships between neural activity and motor output, sensory preception, and cognitive processes. More specifically, for our studies, TMS is used to investigate corticospinal ecitability and plasticity in both healthy and clinical population. This device significantly expands our ability to study central neural mechanisms combined with peripheral muscle funciton and performance outcomes.