"Research Methods in Biomechanics, Second Edition," demonstrates the range of available research techniques and how to best apply this knowledge to ensure valid data collection. In the highly technical field of biomechanics, research methods are frequently upgraded as the speed and sophistication of software and hardware technologies increase. With this in mind, the second edition includes up-to-date research methods and presents new information detailing advanced analytical tools for investigating human movement.

Expanded into 14 chapters and reorganized into four parts, the improved second edition features more than 100 new pieces of art and illustrations and new chapters introducing the latest techniques and up-and-coming areas of research. Also included is access to biomechanics research software designed by C-Motion, Visual3D Educational Edition, which allows users to explore the full range of modeling capabilities of the professional Visual3D software in sample data files as well as display visualizations for other data sets. Additional enhancements in this edition include the following:

- Special features called From the Scientific Literature highlight the ways in which biomechanical research techniques have been used in both classic and cutting-edge studies.

- An overview, summary, and list of suggested readings in each chapter guide students and researchers through the content and on to further study.

- Sample problems appear in select chapters, and answers are provided at the end of the text.

- Appendixes contain mathematical and technical references and additional examples.

- A glossary provides a reference for terminology associated with human movement studies.

"Research Methods in Biomechanics, Second Edition," assists readers in developing a comprehensive understanding of methods for quantifying human movement. Parts I and II of the text examine planar and three-dimensional kinematics and kinetics in research, issues of body segment parameters and forces, and energy, work, and power as they relate to analysis of two- and three-dimensional inverse dynamics. Two of the chapters have been extensively revised to reflect current research practices in biomechanics, in particular the widespread use of Visual3D software. Calculations from these two chapters are now located online with the supplemental software resource, making it easier for readers to grasp the progression of steps in the analysis.

In part III, readers can explore the use of musculoskeletal models in analyzing human movement. This part also discusses electromyography, computer simulation, muscle modeling, and musculoskeletal modeling; it presents new information on MRI and ultrasound use in calculating muscle parameters. Part IV offers a revised chapter on additional analytical procedures, including signal processing techniques. Also included is a new chapter on movement analysis and dynamical systems, which focuses on how to assess and measure coordination and stability in changing movement patterns and the role of movement variability in health and disease. In addition, readers will find discussion of statistical tools useful for identifying the essential characteristics of any human movement.

The second edition of "Research Methods in Biomechanics" explains the mathematics and data collection systems behind both simple and sophisticated biomechanics. Integrating software and text, Research Methods in Biomechanics, Second Edition, assists both beginning and experienced researchers in developing their methods for analyzing and quantifying human movement.

The interest in and use of electromyography (EMG) have grown significantly in recent years. Researchers have found numerous clinical and research uses for EMG, including biofeedback, gait analysis, and clinical diagnosis for neuromuscular disorders. Yet, until now, few sources have been available to help novices understand the characteristics of the instrumentation, signal analysis techniques, and appropriate EMG applications.

"Essentials of Electromyography" provides the perfect starting point for those who plan to use EMG because it aids in the comprehension of issues such as handling noise contamination to the area, slope, and variability of the EMG signal. The text is also a solid reference for practitioners who use EMG, including exercise scientists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and motor development specialists.

The book contains six detailed chapters discussing the anatomy and physiology of muscle, bioelectricity, EMG tools, signal processing, force-fatigue relations, and gait. Through Essentials of Electromyography, readers will

-learn both fundamental and advanced concepts regarding the principles of using EMG, including the use and abuse of electrical recordings of muscle potentials;

-discover the physiological basis of EMG signals, which is explained at an introductory level; and

-explore relevant topics such as electrode configuration, advanced signal processing theory, and locations for extracting EMG information.

The text provides a solid review of the relationship between human anatomy and EMG as well as how EMG is applied to clinical areas. It showcases over 160 figures and many qualitative explanations to communicate the principles of EMG, the biophysical basis of EMG, and the appropriate applications of EMG. It also contains appendixes for readers with a deeper understanding of EMG and stronger backgrounds in math; those readers will have the opportunity to work through more detailed EMG calculations. The book is heavily referenced and illustrated with diagrams showing electrical circuits and the progression of electrical impulses.

"Essentials of Electromyography"--which is also available as an e-book--will help readers learn how to apply EMG for biofeedback, back pain, sport activities, and other uses. The text pulls together information scattered in books and articles among the numerous disciplines that use EMG as a tool. With its clear presentation of the concepts and applications of EMG, "Essentials of Electromyography" will prove to be a valuable text for practitioners and students alike.