An assessment of the contribution of electromyographic biofeedback as an adjunct therapy in the physical training of spinal cord injured persons

This study tested the efficacy of biofeedback when administered in conjunction with physical rehabilitation therapy to chronic C5-7 quadriplegics. Triceps brachii, biceps brachii, wrist extensors, and wrist flexors were tested. The studied muscles were compromised by the injury to varying degrees, but were often still useful to these subjects. An exercise regimen was given to all subjects. In addition, subjects were separated into two groups: those who received biofeedback training and those who did not. Two measures of performance were tested: manual muscle scores and functional activities scores. Both groups scored significantly higher on both measures after 12 weeks of rehabilitation therapy. We found no evidence that biofeedback generally increased the amount of improvement seen. These results do not support the routine use of biofeedback in the treatment of chronic spinal cord injury, but rather further stress the importance of exercise therapy for such injuries.