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Distance training for the restoration of motor function
1Roessingh Research and Development, Enschede, The Netherlands. h.vandijk@rrd.nl
Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare
|April 8, 2004
Summary
Distance training shows promise for motor function restoration. While virtual reality (VR) and robotic devices have weak evidence, electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback demonstrates stronger scientific support for rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Distance training offers a novel approach to motor function restoration.
- Telehealth and remote rehabilitation are increasingly important in healthcare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on distance training for motor function restoration.
- To assess the strength of scientific evidence for different distance training modalities.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cinahl, and Cochrane databases.
- Inclusion of 11 articles meeting specific criteria related to motor function (muscle/joint, balance, cognition).
- Grading of included articles based on the strength of scientific evidence.
Main Results:
- Six studies focused on muscle/joint function, four on balance, and one on cognition.
- Virtual reality (VR) and robotic devices show promising applications but have weak scientific evidence.
- Electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback demonstrated good to fair scientific evidence for motor function restoration.
Conclusions:
- Distance motor training, particularly EMG biofeedback, holds potential for clinical application.
- Emerging technologies like VR and robotics require further research to strengthen evidence.
- Successful implementation could alleviate pressure on healthcare resources.