Subject-Specific and COM Acceleration-Enhanced Reflex Neuromuscular Model to Predict Ankle Responses in Perturbed Gait

Subject-specific musculoskeletal models generate more accurate joint torque estimates from electromyography (EMG) inputs in relation to experimentally obtained torques. Similarly, reflex Neuromuscular Models (NMMs) that employ COM states in addition to musculotendon information generate muscle activations to musculoskeletal models that better predict ankle torques during perturbed gait. In this study, the reflex NMM of locomotion of one subject is identified by employing an EMG-calibrated musculoskeletal model in unperturbed and perturbed gait. A COM acceleration-enhanced reflex NMM is identified. Subject-specific musculoskeletal models improve torque tracking of the ankle joint in unperturbed and perturbed conditions. COM acceleration-enhanced reflex NMM improves ankle torque tracking especially in early stance and during backward perturbation. Results found herein can guide the implementation of reflex controllers in active prosthetic and orthotic devices.