Reflex hyperactivity of paraspinal muscles in etiology of back pain in helicopter pilots

The position of the helicopter pilot can be described as a forced seated posture in relation to the seat and controls. The aim of this study was to detect reflex hyperactivity of the paraspinal muscles in test subjects resulting from prolonged uncomfortable sitting. Electromyographic activity was registered from paraspinal muscles during sustained paraspinal contraction. This activity was recorded by surface electrodes on four levels, from both sides on the erector spinae muscle with an eight-channel oscilloscope using integrated EMG signals. The results indicated a significant rise (p