ePoster

Psychophysiological biomarkers to assess the effectiveness of surface EMG biofeedback as an alternative therapy to reduce chronic low back pain

Sadaf Ahmed, Shamoon Noushad, Amaila Fazal, Basit Ansari
FENS Forum 2024(2024)
Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center, Vienna, Austria

Conference

FENS Forum 2024

Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center, Vienna, Austria

Resources

Authors & Affiliations

Sadaf Ahmed, Shamoon Noushad, Amaila Fazal, Basit Ansari

Abstract

The prevalence of chronic low back pain (CLBP) among the Pakistani population is reported to be as high as 78% leading to different physiological and psychosocial alterations. This randomized controlled trial was specifically designed to compare the biofeedback surface electromyography (sEMG) effectiveness for chronic low back pain in the Pakistani population.This was a single-centered study conducted on 100 CLBP patients randomized equally into two groups namely; Group A (intervention group, n=50) and Group B (Control Group, n=50) to receive sEMG therapy and continued care, respectively. All participants received treatment for 8 weeks virtually. The primary and secondary outcomes were assessed at baseline, immediately post-intervention, and at 3 months follow-up including the pain intensity and interference, anxiety and depression, and disability. Further, cortisol, beta-endorphins, and substance P levels were also measured. Compared to the control group, the intervention group experienced significantly less pain (p-value=≤0.01) and decreases in muscle tension (p<0.001). Additionally, the intervention group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in low back pain thresholds (p-value=≤0.01), decreases in pain interference (p-value=≤0.01), and disability (p-value=≤0.01) from baseline. However, when comparing changes over time between the groups, no significant effects were discovered. Following the intervention, levels of substance P and cortisol were reduced, and levels of beta-endorphins elevated which helped in the further reduction of pain. The sEMG biofeedback therapy is a useful technique that encourages a comprehensive improvement in the well-being of the patient while enabling them to take an active role in their pain management.

Unique ID: fens-24/psychophysiological-biomarkers-assess-d9300827