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A study to investigate the effect of a new postural bio-feedback device on low back pain.

A multi-centre randomised, placebo controlled open-label pilot study of Back Strain Monitor (BSM) with Feedback compared with the BSM without feedback on the effects of pain and function in subjects with moderate lower back pain.

Status
Completed
Phases
Unknown
Study type
Interventional
Source
ANZCTR
Registry ID
ACTRN12609000157279
Enrollment
96
Registered
2009-03-25
Start date
2009-12-01
Completion date
2012-08-09
Last updated
2020-01-13

For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Sourced from public registries and may not reflect the latest updates. Terms

Conditions

None listed

Brief summary

Previous studies using bulky lower back measuring devices have shown postural bio-feedback is useful in improving outcomes for subjects who experience low back pain. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether a new monitoring and feedback device, that is wireless and discrete, can improve outcomes for subjects with low back pain, via the delivery of postural bio-feedabck.

Interventions

A postural bio-feedback device worn by subjects for 4-10hours a day for 6 days spread across 6 weeks for the sub acute low back pain group and for 8 days spread across 10 weeks for the chronic group. The device records movement and muscle activity data relating to the lower back. Bio-feedback is delivered to the subject as an audible tone, visual cue or vibration and aims to prompt the subject to alter their posture or position in line with recommendations given by the treating practitioner. Fou

A postural bio-feedback device worn by subjects for 4-10hours a day for 6 days spread across 6 weeks for the sub acute low back pain group and for 8 days spread across 10 weeks for the chronic group. The device records movement and muscle activity data relating to the lower back. Bio-feedback is delivered to the subject as an audible tone, visual cue or vibration and aims to prompt the subject to alter their posture or position in line with recommendations given by the treating practitioner. Four small sensors are adhered to the lower back and send data wirelessly to a datalogger carried in the pocket by the subject (the size of a small mobile phone).

Sponsors

Pro-Active Medical P/L
Lead SponsorCommercial sector/Industry

Study design

Allocation
Randomised controlled trial
Intervention model
Parallel
Primary purpose
Treatment
Masking
Open (masking not used)

Eligibility

Sex/Gender
All
Age
18 Years to 65 Years
Healthy volunteers
No

Inclusion criteria

Subjects must meet all of the following criteria to be eligible for the study: 1. Subject provides informed consent 2. Age between 18 and 65 years of age 3. At least moderate intensity low back pain (LBP) and/or back related leg pain, as defined by a QVAS score > 3 (Carragee, Spine 2000). 4. Initial QVAS score of > 3 out of 10 5. Subjects must be assessed by the practitioner as Sub Acute (3 to 12 weeks post onset of low back pain (LBP) or Chronic (> 12 weeks post onset of low back pain (LBP).

Exclusion criteria

Subjects who meet any of the following criteria will not be eligible for participation in this study: 1.Lower back surgery within previous twelve (12) months. 2.Females who are pregnant. 3.Subjects with a severe hearing impairment. 4.Evidence of non mechanical contributing cause for lower back pain e.g. neoplasm, infection, fracture, inflammatory disorder. 5.Preceding chronic neurological changes (Sub Acute group only). 6.Implanted medical device (spinal cord stimulator, intrathecal pump or peripheral nerve stimulator) 7.Nerve block, spinal injection or anesthetic procedure for the treatment of lower back pain within 12 months of the study. 8.Significant medical abnormalities or conditions that in the opinion of the Practitioner would interfere either with the ability to complete the study or the evaluation of the investigational device’s safety and efficacy. 9.Recent history of a significant medical-surgical intervention that in the judgment of the Practitioner would interfere either with the ability to complete the study or the evaluation of the investigative device’s safety and efficacy. 10.Known allergic skin reaction to tapes and plasters. 11.Subject who is currently enrolled in an investigational drug or device study.

Outcome results

None listed

Source: ANZCTR · Data processed: Mar 11, 2026