Biofeedback Modalities Targeting Kypho-lordosis: A Critical Appraisal Topic
Paper ID : 1091-SPORTCONGRESS
Authors
Fateme Khorramroo *1, Seyed Hamed Mousavi2, Reza Rajabi2, Mostafa Jalili Bafrouei2
1Department of Sport Injuries and Biomechanics, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Tehran Iran.
2Department of Sport Injuries and Biomechanics, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
Introduction: Postural deviations such as thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis are prevalent consequences of sedentary behavior, prolonged sitting, and excessive device use, contributing to pain, disability, and reduced function. Biofeedback technologies have emerged as active, user-engaged alternatives to passive correction devices, yet their comparative effectiveness and clinical utility remain unclear. This critical appraisal synthesizes current evidence on biofeedback modalities targeting kypho-lordosis, emphasizing feedback types, sensing technologies, and their effectiveness in postural correction.
Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase (September 2025) identified studies on adult populations using biofeedback-based interventions for kypho-lordosis. Eligible designs included randomized, quasi-experimental, and cross-sectional studies assessing visual, auditory, haptic, or multimodal feedback. Primary outcomes were spinal alignment measures; secondary outcomes included muscle activity, pain, usability, and satisfaction.
Results: Fourteen studies (2006–2025) met inclusion criteria. Most used accelerometers or IMUs for motion detection, with vibration feedback the predominant modality (n = 6), followed by auditory (n = 3), visual (n = 3), and multimodal systems (n = 2). Across modalities, short-term improvements were consistent: vibration and auditory feedback reduced kyphotic and lordotic angles (p < 0.05) and improved trunk alignment; visual feedback enhanced awareness and muscle relaxation; actuator-based systems achieved up to 25° of active correction but lacked long-term data. Methodological quality varied, with small samples, limited follow-up, and inconsistent confounder control.
Conclusion: Biofeedback modalities—particularly vibration and auditory systems—demonstrate measurable, short-term improvements in spinal alignment and user engagement, outperforming passive supports. However, evidence is weakened by low methodological rigor and short-term focus. Future research must prioritize longitudinal, real-world trials, multimodal feedback optimization, and ergonomic integration for sustained postural correction.
Keywords
Sensor, IMU, EMG, Feedback, Kyphosis, Lordosis, Alignment
Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation)