EMG Biofeedback Training to Improve Balance in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis

"The intervention is an exercise training that is facilitated by feedback derived from electrical muscle activity measured through electromyography (EMG). An EMG Biofeedback software uses a machine learning algorithm to identify the desired movements and reinforce them by displaying feedback on a computer monitor in the form of videogame control. The EMG acquisition hardware must have at least 4 sensor channels and a sampling rate of \>1KHz. Other than these specifications, any generic EMG amplifier can be used. The effect of the device is therefore primarily defined by the software. An in-depth description of the software and hardware systems is published in the cites study, An EMG-Based Biofeedback System for Tailored Interventions Involving Distributed Muscles. In this trail is the Explore+ ExG amplifier which is sold by Mentalab."

This intervention is a time-matched active comparator for the EMG-BF intervention. A sequence of seven traditional, balance exercises, taking 1-3 minutes each, is repeated for a total of 30 minutes on each of 18 sessions in the 6-week intervention period. The exercises are ones that challenge the coordination and strength of postural muscles in the presence of various vestibular stimuli. The specific exercises are described in the Arm description.