Effect of augmented feedback on motor function of the affected upper extremity in rehabilitation patients: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.
OBJECTIVE
Assessment of the available evidence regarding the effect of augmented feedback on motor function of the upper extremity in rehabilitation patients.


METHODS
A systematic literature search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effect of augmented feedback on motor function. Two reviewers systematically assessed the methodological quality of the trials. The reported effects were examined to evaluate the effect of therapeutic interventions using augmented feedback and to identify a possible relationship with patient characteristics, type of intervention, or methodological quality.


RESULTS
Twenty-six randomized controlled trials were included, 9 of which reported a positive effect on arm function tests. Follow-up measurements were performed in 8 trials, 1 of which reported a positive effect. Different therapeutic interventions using augmented feedback, i.e. electromyographic biofeedback, kinetic feedback, kinematic feedback, or knowledge of results, show no difference in effectiveness.


CONCLUSIONS
No firm evidence was found of effectiveness regarding the use of augmented feedback to improve motor function of the upper extremity in rehabilitation patients. Future studies should focus more on the content, form and timing of augmented feedback concerning the therapeutic intervention. It should be emphasized that motor learning effects can only be determined by re-examining the population after a follow-up period.
van Dijk
Henk
H
Roessingh Research and Development, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands. h.vandijk@rrd.nl
Jannink
Michiel J A
MJ
Hermens
Hermie J
HJ
D001132:Arm / Q000503:physiopathology*; D001676:Biofeedback, Psychology; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D002493:Central Nervous System Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D004576:Electromyography; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007721:Knowledge of Results, Psychological; D009048:Motor Skills; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D020127:Recovery of Function; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D020521:Stroke / Q000503:physiopathology; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D016896:Treatment Outcome