The effects of abdominal muscle contraction using real-time feedback on adults with chronic low back pain: A pilot study

BackgroundThis study aimed to examine the influence of real-time feedback on intentional abdominal muscle engagement in adults with chronic low back pain (CLBP) during daily activities. The research further sought to evaluate the outcomes of this training on neuromuscular control, pain perception, and functional capacity.ObjectiveWe compared a group of adults who received real-time feedback on changes in waist circumference with a group trained in abdominal contraction without real-time feedback.MethodsSurface electromyographic (sEMG) signals were measured in the rectus abdominis (RA), external oblique (EO), internal oblique (IO), and erector spinae (ES) muscles. Pain intensity was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), and functional outcomes were assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).ResultsAfter the intervention, sEMG signals of the RA, EO, and IO muscles were significantly higher in the experimental group. There were no significant differences in ES muscle activity between the groups. Both the experimental and control groups showed significant decreases in VAS and ODI scores after the intervention.ConclusionIntentional abdominal contraction aided by real-time feedback can improve functionality in patients with chronic low back pain.