Effectiveness of Electromyographic (EMG) Biofeedback in Osteoarthritis of the Knee joint: A Brief Narrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: After knee osteoarthritis (OA), the patient will have a varying degree of quadriceps weakness, affecting the joint range of motion and physical function. Therefore, effective physical therapy is a common therapy for clinicians. Recently, there has been increased interest in the use of biofeedback approaches in rehabilitation interventions, and it is progressively being regarded as a helpful strategy to reduce pain and boost the effectiveness of major therapies. Methodology: Studies on the topic of the effect of using EMG biofeedback (EMGBF) in osteoarthritis of the knee joint were reviewed so the findings of those articles were used to explore the additive effect of EMG biofeedback training that would affect quadriceps pain and Vastus medialis Oblique (VMO) thickness in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Results: In terms of the results of this approach in patients with knee OA, some studies have discovered that it has a favorable impact on pain alleviation, function, and muscular strength in patients treated with exercise with Electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback, while others have found that it has no extra effects on patients. Conclusion: Employing EMGBF has certain benefits, and the decision to utilize it or not is based on its ease of access, cost-effectiveness, and physician-patient desire