EMG Analysis of Gluteus Medius Subdivisions during Modified Unilateral Biofeedback Exercises for the Lower Limbs

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the activation of subdivisions of the gluteus medius during modified unilateral weight-bearing exercises using a pressure-biofeedback unit in order to suggest the most effective exercise method. [Subjects] We recruited 15 healthy adult females with no pain in the gluteus medius and no other orthopedic problems in the lower limbs. [Methods] The enrolled individuals performed four modified unilateral biofeedback exercises: wall-press with adduction force, WP-ADD; wall-press with abduction force, WP-ABD; wall-squat with adduction force, WS-ADD; and wall-squat with abduction force. [Results] The anterior and middle fibers of the gluteus medius were highly activated during WP-ADD, and the posterior fiber of the gluteus medius was activated during WS-ABD. [Conclusion] These results suggest that weight-bearing exercises for gluteus medius strengthening should be more specific, and chosen based on the characteristics of each subdivision.