Trapezius muscle EMG as predictor of mental stress

Abstract

Stress is a growing problem in society and can, amongst others, induce musculoskeletal complaints, related to sustained muscle tension. The ability to measure stress with a wireless system would be useful in the prevention of stress-related health problems. The aim of this experiment was to derive stress levels of subjects from electromyography (EMG) signals of the upper trapezius muscle. Two new stress tests were designed for this study, which aimed at creating circumstances that are similar to work stress.