Effect of a portable EMG-based combined biofeedback device (PECBD) for the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, and tibialis anterior muscles on stroke gait

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of portable EMG-based combined biofeedback for the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, and tibialis anterior muscles on gait parameters of patients. [Subjects] For the study, we recruited ten volunteers who were survivors of strokes. [Methods] We measured the gait parameters in with and without the portable EMG-based combined biofeedback device. Gait parameters were measured with a GAITRite system. [Results] The portable EMG-based combined biofeedback device significantly improved the affected step length, less-affected step length, affected stride length, and less-affected stride length in stroke patients. [Conclusion] The portable EMG-based combined biofeedback device enabled facilitation of the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, and tibialis anterior muscles. The training enabled the patients to dorsiflex the ankle, attain heel strike at ground contact, and increase in hip and knee flexion during swing.