Dual-task EMG Biofeedback Balance Training to Improve Balance in Individuals with MS

Start Term
End Term
Funding Amount
$271,060
Geographic Region(s) / Province(s)
Ontario
Research Priorities
Life-modifying therapies
Impact Goal(s)
Advance Treatment and Care

Affiliation(s): McMaster University

Researcher(s):  Aimee Nelson

Summary:

  • Physical activity is widely accepted as a beneficial therapy for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), however impaired balance and falls among people with MS can limit their participation in physical activity.
  • Dr. Aimee Nelson and team will test a novel intervention, called dual-task EMG biofeedback balance training, to improve balance in people with MS.  
  • If proven to be effective, this research may result in the development of a new intervention that can reverse functional decline in people with MS and enhance their well-being and quality of life.  

Project Description: 
Physical activity is widely accepted as a beneficial therapy for people with MS. However, people with MS are less likely to participate in physical activity due to impaired balance and increased risk of injury-causing falls. There is a need for physiotherapy interventions that can re-build the strength, confidence, and balance to allow someone with MS to participate in regular physical activity.

Dr. Aimee Nelson and team will test a novel approach, called dual-task EMG biofeedback training, to improve balance in people living with MS. Individuals will be assigned to one of two groups: EMG biofeedback or control. Participants in the EMG biofeedback group will be asked to control a video game using signals from their leg and arm muscles while standing with or without assistance. This training is intended to be mentally challenging while simultaneously engaging muscles important for balance and fall prevention. The EMG biofeedback group will attend three 30-minute sessions per week for six weeks, while the control group will continue with their regular healthcare schedule. Balance measures will be collected before the intervention, then at 6 weeks and three months after the intervention.

Potential Impact: The findings of this research have the potential to lead to new and accessible approaches to improve balance and support physical activity in people living with MS.

Project Status: In Progress