Identifying and Overcoming the Barriers to Virtual Electromyography Assessments: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Introduction:

Electromyography (EMG) assessments have been conducted virtually more frequently in recent years, leading researchers to explore the barriers to EMG assessments in a telehealth setting and how to overcome them.

Methods:

A scoping review was conducted according to the methodology described by Arksey and O'Malley. A comprehensive search using controlled vocabulary and keywords for two concepts, EMG and telehealth, was conducted using Medline and EMBASE on February 7, 2022. Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles. Two reviewers also extracted the data and described the findings in a descriptive analysis.

Results:

A total of 248 articles were screened during the abstract and title review, of which 64 full texts were screened for eligibility. Of these, 15 publications met the inclusion criteria. Most articles were published in 2018 or later (66.7%). The most frequently mentioned barrier to conducting a virtual EMG assessment was poor data and signal transmission (53.3%). Another frequently mentioned barrier was poor patient usability (33.3%). Solutions most frequently reported related to patient usability (33.3%). These included interactive instructions and video chat to monitor and provide the patient with technical support.

Conclusion:

The last 4 years have seen an increase in articles published on EMGs' use in telehealth to monitor or diagnose patients. Further research is required to determine if the proposed solutions have improved clinical outcomes for the patient.