High-Density Surface EMG Biofeedback From the Trapezius for Real-Time Postural Correction

Work-related chronic neck pain is a growing condition in the United States that accounts for 56% to 65% of all occupational disabling injuries [1]. Fifty-four percent of working adults suffer from chronic neck pain within any six-month period and 5% of working adults report that neck pain significantly inhibits daily activities [2]. These conditions have been linked to poor posture in the cervical spine and shoulder [3]. Poor cervical spine posture commonly includes simultaneous extension in the upper vertebrae (C1-C3) and flexion in lower vertebrae (C7-C4). This posture moves the head anterior to the torso and increases the load carried by the upper trapezius (UT) [4]. To maintain this posture, the UT is activated and elevates the scapula. Chronic activation of the UT has been correlated to chronic neck pain [5]. Although there is an apparent correlation between poor posture and neck pain, it is unclear whether neck pain causes poor posture or if poor posture causes neck pain.