Effects of Electromyographic Biofeedback Training of Triceps Surae Muscle on Functional Performance in Chronic Quadriplegics

Objective: This study was carried out to find the changes in functional status of chronic spinal cord injured patients with treatment of electromyography biofeedback. Methods: A sample of 30 subjects randomly allocated into group A and B participated in the study .Group A received electromyographic biofeedback training along with conventional exercise and Group B received conventional exercises only. The subjects were assessed for electromyographic amplitude, quadriplegic index of function and spinal cord independence measure scores. They were assessed before the treatment and after treatment. The total duration of the study was 3 weeks with 5 session of treatment in a week. Results: The study showed significant changes in all variables studied during a intra group analysis as well as intergroup analysis. There was a significant change in EMG amplitude scores of both upper extremities, quadriplegic index of function and spinal cord independence measure scores in both group A and group B after the treatment. There was significant difference in electromyographic amplitude values, quadriplegic index of function and spinal cord independence measure scores after the treatment between the groups. Conclusion: The electromyographic biofeedback can be used along with conventional exercises to improve the function in chronic spinal cord injury patients.