Randomized study of the application of single motor unit biofeedback training to chronic low back pain

The application of single motor unit biofeedback training (SMUBT) techniques was compared to traditional therapies in treating chronic low back pain (CLBP). Thirty-six volunteers (who experienced daily pain for 7 years in the T8 to S1 area) were randomly assigned to one of three treatments; SMUBT, relaxation training, or an educational program. The pain level and electromyographic activity of all subjects were assessed by a person blind to the treatment; before, immediately after, and 90 days after treatment. The SMUBT group reported immediately decreased pain which was maintained at 90 days, the relaxation group showed no changes, while the education group reported decreased pain at 90 days. The EMG results showed decreased amplitude and bilateral differences for the SMUBT and education groups. A 4-year follow-up revealed the SMUBT group remained symptom free. Implications and discussion of the results concludes the paper.