Embodying the illusion of a strong, fit back in people with chronic low back pain. A pilot proof-of-concept study. (February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nishigami, Tomohiko; Wand, Benedict Martin; Newport, Roger; Ratcliffe, Natasha; Themelis, Kristy; Moen, David; Jones, Cat; Moseley, G. Lorimer; Stanton, Tasha R.
• Is Part Of: Musculoskeletal science and practice. Volume 39(2019)
• Page Start: 178
• Page End: 183
• Publication Date: 2019-02
• Subjects: Manipulation (Therapeutics) -- Periodicals; Physical therapy -- Periodicals; Neuromuscular diseases -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Musculoskeletal system -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Manipulation (Therapeutics); Neuromuscular diseases -- Treatment; Physical therapy; Manipulation, Orthopedic; Musculoskeletal Diseases -- therapy; Neuromuscular Diseases -- therapy; Physical Therapy Modalities; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 615.82
• DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2018.07.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2468-8630

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: This proof-of-concept pilot study aimed to investigate if a visual illusion that altered the size and muscularity of the back could be embodied and alter perception of the back. Methods: The back visual illusions were created using the MIRAGE multisensory illusion system. Participants watched real-time footage of a modified version of their own back from behind. Participants undertook one experimental condition, in which the image portrayed a muscled, fit-looking back (Strong), and two control conditions (Reshaped and Normal) during a lifting task. Embodiment, back perception as well as pain intensity and beliefs about the back during lifting were assessed. Results: Two participants with low back pain were recruited for this study: one with altered body perception and negative back beliefs (Participant A) and one with normal perception and beliefs (Participant B). Participant A embodied the Strong condition and pain and fear were less and both perceived strength and confidence were more than for the Normal or the Reshaped condition. Participant B did not embody the Strong condition and reported similar levels of pain, fear strength and confidence across all three conditions. Discussion: An illusion that makes the back look strong successfully induced embodiment of a visually modified back during a lifting task in a low back pain patient with altered body perception. Both participants tolerated the illusion, there were no adverse effects, and we gained preliminary evidence that the approach may have therapeutic potential.