What is the primary objective of EMG-triggered stimulation in post-stroke rehabilitation?

The primary objective of EMG-triggered stimulation in post-stroke rehabilitation is to initiate electrical stimulation based on patient movement. This technique utilizes electromyography (EMG) to detect the electrical signals produced by muscles when they contract. By doing so, the system can detect the intention to move, even in individuals with paralysis or significant motor deficits.

When the patient attempts to contract a muscle, the EMG system captures this signal and triggers electrical stimulation to facilitate muscle activation. This not only encourages the use of muscles that may have become weak or inactive due to stroke but also supports the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections through practice and repeated movement attempts. By aligning the stimulation with the patient's own muscle signals, this approach enhances the effectiveness of the therapy, ultimately promoting better functional recovery.

Enhancing muscle mass, detecting electrical signals in paralyzed muscles, and promoting sensory feedback are related concepts but do not capture the primary goal of EMG-triggered stimulation as precisely as the ability to initiate stimulation in response to intended movement. Each of those elements may play a role in the broader context of rehabilitation, but they do not reflect the core function of EMG-triggered systems.