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The effects of stochastic resonance stimulation on spine proprioception and postural control in chronic low back pain
N Peter Reeves1, Jacek Cholewicki, Angela S Lee
1Department of Osteopathic Surgical Specialties, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48910, USA. reevesn@msu.edu
Study Design:
Spine proprioception and postural control in unstable sitting were compared in 18 chronic low back pain patients using a repeated measures design.
Objective:
The study objective was to determine if stochastic resonance (SR) stimulation of the paraspinal muscles improves spine proprioception and trunk postural control.
Summary Of Background Data:
Decreased spine proprioception and larger postural sway have been found in low back pain patients, although several studies have also shown no differences in spine proprioception.
Methods:
Spine proprioception, measuring subjects' sensitivity to change in position, was assessed in 3 orthopaedic planes. Postural control was assessed using an unstable seat with a hemisphere attached to the bottom. Subjects balanced with eyes closed on the most challenging size hemisphere they could manage while center-of-pressure was recorded with a force plate beneath the seat. Both tasks were performed with SR stimulation randomized at 0%, 25%, 50%, and 90% intensity levels.
Results:
No significant differences in spine proprioception were observed between SR stimulation levels for any of the 3 orthopaedic planes. SR stimulation significantly improved postural control, but only in the lateral plane. No differences in postural control were observed between stimulation levels 25%, 50%, and 90% in the lateral plane. There was no correlation between spine proprioception and postural control.
Conclusion:
Results suggest that SR stimulation to the paraspinal muscles can improve postural control; however, this improvement cannot be attributed to improved spine proprioception based on the current study. People with compromised neuromuscular control or those exposed to unstable environments may benefit from SR stimulation.
