Practice Variability Combined with Task-Oriented Electromyographic Biofeedback Enhances Strength and Balance in People with Chronic Stroke.

Objectives: To investigate the effects of practice variability combined with task-oriented electromyographic biofeedback (EMGBFB) on strength and balance in people with chronic stroke.

Methods: Thirty-three participants were randomly assigned into the constant force EMGBFB tibialis anterior (TA) exercise (constant) group, the variable force EMGBFB tibialis anterior exercise (variable) group, or the upper extremity exercise without EMGBFB (control) group. Subjects in each group received 6 weekly sessions of exercise training (18 sessions, 40 minutes each).

Low-intensity task-oriented exercise for ambulation-challenged residents in long-term care facilities: a randomized, controlled trial.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a task-oriented ambulation training program in regaining walking, balance, and activity of daily living performance for ambulation-challenged residents with walking potential in long-term care facilities.

Design: Fifty ambulation-challenged residents with walking potential were randomly assigned to an individualized task-oriented ambulation training group (30-45 mins, three times a week) or a routine nursing care control group for 4 wks. Each subject was evaluated by a blind evaluator before and after training.

Using Electromyography to Detect the Weightings of the Local Muscle Factors to the Increase of Perceived Exertion During Stepping Exercise.

Rate of perceived exertion (RPE) is a clinically convenient indicator for monitoring exercise intensity in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. It might not be sensitive enough for clinicians to determine the patients' physiological status because its association with the cardiovascular system and local muscle factors is unknown. This study used the electromyographic sensor to detect the local muscle fatigue and stabilization of patella, and analyzed the relationship between various local muscle and cardiovascular factors and the increase of RPE during stepping exercise, a common exercise program provided in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.