The use of EMG feedback and progressive relaxation in the treatment of a woman with chronic back pain.

In this systematic single-case study, a 71-year-old white female with chronic back pain and paravertebral muscle spasm was treated with 17 sessions of electromyographic (EMG) feedback, with recording site just below the right inferior scapular angle. Progressive relaxation practice was also employed. EMG level was monitored during baseline, treatment, and follow-up phases. Backaches were recorded by the subject on a daily basis. There was a marked decrease in both EMG level and frequency of backaches, as well as an increase in activities at home. Improvement was maintained 12 weeks after the last treatment session.