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Kontinuierliches EMG-Biofeedback am Bildschirmarbeitsplatz

Introduction and aims: The aim of this feasibility study was to evaluate a portable biofeedback device on a group of computer workers with musculoskeletal pain. The EMG biofeedback was given directly on the computer screen of each participant’s workplace by means of specially designed software.

Methods: The wireless biofeedback device was used by 22 office employees, who worked at least 70 % of their regular working hours at the computer, over a period of four weeks. In addition to the continuously recorded EMG data and the type and intensity of musculoskeletal pain, the degree of impairment by pain and psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression were also measured.

Results: Continuous EMG biofeedback in this setting seemed to reduce the maximum pain scores as well as the degree of impairment by pain. These positive effects still remained detectable at follow-up four weeks after the training. Continuous EMG biofeedback at the occupational computer workstation seems to be a promising treatment approach which should be investigated further using controlled studies and larger group sizes.