Effectiveness of therapeutic electromyographic biofeedback after orthopedic knee surgeries: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose

To present an evidence-based overview of the current utilization and the effectiveness of therapeutic Electromyographic Biofeedback (EMG-BF) in rehabilitation after orthopedic knee surgeries.

Materials and methods

This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA statement. MEDLINE (PubMed), PEDro, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched from their inception to June 20, 2020.

Results

Eight RCTs investigating effectiveness of the EMG-BF in rehabilitation after orthopedic knee surgeries were identified. The quality scores for included studies ranged from 6 to 8 on PEDro Scale. Most of the included studies reported that EMG-BF was more effective compared to home exercises, standard rehabilitation program or electrical stimulation for improving quadriceps strength or activation. Besides, EMG-BF was revealed positive results in functional assessments except gait velocity and IKDC. Only two studies reported knee ROMs were significantly improved in favour of EMG-BF.

Conclusions

This systematic review shows that EMG-BF seems to control pain and improve quadriceps femoris strength and functionality. However, the results are inconclusive regarding knee ROMs. Although available high‐quality evidence is limited, EMG-BF might be a part of the rehabilitation after knee surgeries.

Implications for rehabilitation

• This paper reviews the effectiveness of the therapeutic EMG-BF as a potential option in rehabilitation after orthopedic knee surgeries.

• It is recommended EMG-BF can be used to control pain and to improve quadriceps strength and function.

• There is insufficient evidence to support EMG-BF to improve the range of motion.

Keywords:

• EMG biofeedback
• myofeedback
• knee operations
• rehabilitation

Disclosure statement

The authors report no declarations of interest.