Treating chronic low back pain. EMG biofeedback training during movement

Fifteen sessions of EMG biofeedback training to low back musculature were completed by a patient with chronic low back pain during a five-week interval. The training was provided while standing, during trunk movements, and for movement patterns which exacerbated pain. Specific joint ranges of motion and pain ratings were recorded at each session. A minitrainer worn by the patient in his occupational setting was used to reinforce training. Joint ranges of motion increased over time while variability in integrated EMG was reduced. Subjective pain ratings declined after 11 of 17 sessions and remained "very low" throughout a follow-up period. The patient substantially decreased intake of prescription drugs. Fifteen weeks after the first treatment session, the patient was still able to minimize variability in EMG activity for specific body positioning.