Biofeedback complements stroke patients’ rehabilitation
In this study, researchers from the University of São Paulo School of Medicine, in Brazil combined electromyographic biofeedback with occupational therapy and functional electrical stimulation in hemiplegic patients.
First, the details.
- 59 patients were studied over 12 months.
- All received twice-weekly sessions of occupational therapy and functional electrical stimulation.
- Some also received weekly sessions of biofeedback.
And, the results.
- At 6 months, patients receiving biofeedback had significantly greater improvement in upper extremity function compared to occupational therapy and functional electrical stimulation alone.
The bottom line?
The authors concluded, “Incorporating biofeedback into the treatment regimen had a positive effect on the range of motion and on the recovery of upper extremity function in hemiplegic patients.”
2/18/08 19:20 JR
