Pressure biofeedback unit to assess and train lumbopelvic stability in supine individuals with chronic low back pain

[Purpose] To determine if pressure biofeedback unit readings are related to abdominal muscle activation and centre of pressure displacement as well as to test the effects of using it as a biofeedback tool to control lumbopelvic motion. [Participants and Methods] Eighteen volunteers with chronic nonspecific low back pain (21.28 ± 1.41 years old) who performed an active straight leg raising (dynamic postural challenge) with and without pressure biofeedback. Changes in the pressure biofeedback unit and on centre of pressure displacement were assessed, as well as bilateral electromyographic abdominal muscle activity. Participants were not allowed to use a Valsalva manoeuvre. [Results] Pressure variation was not significantly correlated with abdominal muscle activity or with mediolateral centre of pressure displacement. When used as a biofeedback instrument, there was a significant increase in almost all abdominal muscles activity as well as a significant decrease in pressure variation and in mediolateral centre of pressure displacement while performing an active straight leg raising with a normal breathing pattern. [Conclusion] Despite not being an indicator of abdominal muscle activity or mediolateral load transfer in the supine position, the pressure biofeedback unit could have great relevance when used in the clinic for biofeedback purposes in individuals with low back pain.