초록
Purpose: This study was conducted to predict the risks that arise while standing on mediolateral ramps at various ramp angles by identifying the ratio of medial to lateral gastrocnemius muscle activities. Methods: The subjects were 20 healthy adult men. Seven mediolateral ramp angles ($0^{\circ}$, $2^{\circ}$, $5^{\circ}$, $10^{\circ}$, $15^{\circ}$, $20^{\circ}$, and $25^{\circ}$) were applied for the experiment. The ratio of medial to lateral gastrocnemius muscle activities in each condition was measured using electromyography, and the measured data were converted to root mean square values to calculate the activity ratios. Results: The study results showed statistically significant differences in the ratio of mediolateral gastrocnemius muscle activities according to the selected mediolateral ramp angles. The results of a post hoc test confirmed that the multifidus muscles were asymmetrically used on the two sides at mediolateral ramp angles of $5^{\circ}$ or higher. Conclusion: This study found that an asymmetric use of the multifidus muscles began at a mediolateral ramp angle of $5^{\circ}$, and the provision of propulsion using the ankle joints on mediolateral ramps at $5^{\circ}$ or steeper was maneuvered differently from that on flat ground. This suggests that individuals with balance control disorder have the risk of falling due to ankle sprains and unstable balance control. Therefore, patients and elderly people are required to exercise caution when crossing $5^{\circ}$ or steeper ramps.