Visual EMG Biofeedback System in a VR Space for Relearning Internal Models

—Case Studies in Healthy Subjects Using a Prototype—

Abstract

We propose a novel visual electromyography (EMG) biofeedback system that encourages patients to relearn their internal models by presenting the limb characteristics. These characteristics differ from themselves and are presented in a Virtual Reality (VR) space. Based on our previous research, we developed a prototype system that calculates the angles of the human elbow joint using EMG with a time-invariant model, and utilizes those values in the virtual upper limb objects in VR space. Furthermore, to establish the utility of this system in patients, we verified the effectiveness of the prototype by assessing it in healthy participants. We concluded that this system may interfere with motor control strategies.