What Is Biofeedback Training?
The application of advanced technologies to promote motor relearning in sports and neuromusculoskeletal rehabilitation is a topic of increasing interest. An example of such an application is real-time biofeedback, in which athletes are presented with visual or auditory feedback for immediate self-modification of a certain aspect of their physiological function such as muscle tension, joint angle. Biofeedback is a rehabilitation tool that utilizes the electromyograph (EMG) signals to provide information about the amount of muscle activity. Specifically, biofeedback devices measures muscle tension as it changes over time. This feedback can then be used to help patients learn how to control their muscle activity, leading to improved muscle contraction, movement, and function. The constant monitoring of the physical responses of the muscles while performing an isolated activity provides valuable insight into a patient’s body awareness and function.
How Does Biofeedback Training work?
During a the application of biofeedback session, your physiotherapist will place electrode sensors on the skin over the muscles that are being targeted. For example, the muscles in front of your thigh (quadriceps) if you are recovering from knee surgery. You will be guided to perform a specific task or therapeutic exercise while the therapist monitors the real-time EMG signal. This biofeedback device and mobile app allows for greater engagement via custom settings, training, play, and provides valuable data for your therapist to track over time. Visual feedback in the mobile device application provides real-time data to help you achieve efficient neuromuscular re-education and put value in every movement.
Biofeedback is often been described in the context of training as compared to therapy. With training and practice, EMG Biofeedback can help you learn new abilities which can in turn help you improve your movement performance. A typical biofeedback session lasts 10 to 20 minutes as a component of your overall physiotherapy treatment. The amount of time spent on the use of biofeedback as a whole varies largely varies depending on how you progress.
What Are The Benefits Of Biofeedback Training?
Many individuals who suffer from an injury or painful condition experience inhibition. Inhibition is a lack of voluntary muscle contraction resulting from an injured limb, muscle loss, effusion, pain, or swelling. As a result of inhibition, muscle atrophy can occur, which has many adverse effects, including muscle weakness, asymmetry, avoidance patterns, and increased re-injury risk. There are several reasons why biofeedback should be included as part of your physiotherapy and rehabilitation program.
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By using a EMG biofeedback, you can reduce overactive muscles, reduce pain, and increase your range of motion reducing movement dysfunction. Boring exercises suddenly have new meaning as you are able to see your muscle action in real time.
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EMG biofeedback enhances your treatment plan, providing valuable information you need to succeed.
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Drug-free and noninvasive without any side effects.
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Immediate, personalized feedback so you know what’s working and what’s not.
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Helps locate the source of discomfort, and ensures treatment of the underlying cause of your condition, not just the symptoms.
What Conditions Can Benefit From Biofeedback Training?
EMG biofeedback can be included into comprehensive treatment plans for several common complaints and conditions, including the following:
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Anterior cruciate ligament injury.
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Low back pain
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Postural syndromes
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Posture issues
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Urinary incontinence
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Jaw pain
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Post-surgical rehabilitation
We’ll utilize EMG biofeedback as you perform different exercises or movements, helping you understand what those movements do and ensure you’re performing them effectively. It also provides accurate measurements that we can use to track your progress as you work through your treatment plan.