To evaluate the effectiveness of EMG-based bioelectrical feedback in the rehabilitation of stroke patients with hemiplegia compared to conventional rehabilitation.
Key Findings:
Bioelectrical feedback significantly improved total Fugl-Meyer Assessment scores (MD = 9.50, 95% CI (3.41, 15.60), p = 0.002).
Activities of Daily Living scores improved (MD = 8.80, 95% CI (3.67, 13.94), p = 0.0008).
Fugl-Meyer motor subscale scores improved (MD = 6.83, 95% CI (1.52, 12.14), p = 0.01).
Neurophysiological outcomes showed greater EMG amplitude (MD = 0.03 mV, 95% CI (0.00, 0.06), p = 0.03) and larger active range of motion (MD = 4.74°, 95% CI (1.99, 7.50), p = 0.0007).
Complications were significantly reduced (OR = 0.26, 95% CI (0.14, 0.49), p < 0.0001).
Interpretation:
While EMG-based bioelectrical feedback may improve motor function and reduce complications in hemiplegic stroke patients, high heterogeneity and limited studies necessitate cautious interpretation, particularly regarding the generalizability of findings.
Limitations:
High heterogeneity for most continuous outcomes (I2 = 69–98%).
Few pooled studies per outcome (3–6) limited subgroup analyses.
Geographic concentration of studies.
Inability to assess publication bias.
Small sample size of included studies may impact the robustness of findings.
Conclusion:
Adequately powered randomized controlled trials with blinded outcome assessment are needed before firm clinical recommendations can be made, particularly considering the need for diverse geographic representation.
Federal prosecutors allege that a Florida physician and research staff fabricated clinical trial records that were submitted into database systems used to evaluate investigational drugs.
