Therapeutic uses of surface electromyography for rehabilitation: An emerging tool across clinical applications

Surface electromyography (EMG) is a noninvasive technology that detects voluntary muscle activation and has emerged as a valuable tool for neuromuscular assessment and rehabilitation. By using surface electrodes placed over targeted muscle groups, EMG enables the detection of muscle activity without the discomfort associated with invasive needle-based techniques, allowing for repeated and prolonged use across diverse patient populations. A key advantage of surface EMG is its ability to provide real-time biofeedback, enabling clinicians and patients to visualize muscle activation and adjust performance during therapeutic interventions. This capability supports individualized rehabilitation strategies aimed at both facilitating activation of weakened muscles and reducing unwanted muscle activity, such as co-contractions. The immediate feedback provided by EMG enhances patients' understanding of their own motor function, promoting greater motivation, engagement, and adherence to rehabilitation programs. Despite growing evidence supporting its effectiveness, adoption of surface EMG as a routine rehabilitation tool remains limited. This review summarizes the current state of surface EMG in rehabilitation, highlights established and emerging clinical applications, and examines barriers that have hindered broader integration into standard practice.