Effects of a physical therapy program on surface electromyographic activity of erector spinal muscles in a sports patient with non-specific low back pain: A case report

Abstract

Background: Non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) is a common condition that can impair neuromuscular function and sports performance. Heavy lifting during training is a frequent trigger for NSLBP. This case report aimed to evaluate the impact of a physiotherapy intervention on pain levels, neuromuscular control assessed through surface electromyography (sEMG), and sports performance in a patient with NSLBP.

Case presentation: A 30-year-old male athlete reported NSLBP following heavy lifting during sports training. The physiotherapy intervention included education, manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and motor control training, progressing to the reintroduction of the previously painful movement.

Results: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) demonstrated significant improvements, including a reduction in the Örebro Musculoskeletal Pain Questionnaire (OMPQ) score from 71 to 55, an increase in the SF-36 Physical Functioning (PF) score from 81 to 90, and an improvement in the Aberdeen Stairs score from 34.78% to 10.86%. Pain levels, as measured by the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), decreased from 7/10 to 1/10. sEMG analysis revealed improved flexion relaxation ratio (FRR), indicating enhanced neuromuscular control, particularly in the eccentric activity of spinal erectors.

Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of tailored physiotherapy interventions for athletes with NSLBP, emphasizing the relevance of addressing neuromuscular deficits to restore sports performance and prevent recurrence. The integration of objective sEMG measures and PROMs provides valuable insights for sports physiotherapy practice.

Keywords: Non-specific low back pain; Sport physiotherapy; Surface electromyography.