A wearable sensor system to diagnose and guide treatment for low back pain
Official title: Wearable nanocomposite sensor system for diagnosing mechanical sources of low back pain and guiding rehabilitation
Funded at Brigham Young University · NIH-10375976 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new wearable device that helps figure out what’s causing your low back pain and supports your recovery by tracking your movements, making it easier for your healthcare team to create a personalized treatment plan just for you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham Young University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Provo, United States) |
| Project start | September 26, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2021 |
| Award (this year) | $1,233,342 |
| NIH project number | 4UH3AR076723-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10375976 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic low back pain or recurrent episodes of back pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute back pain or those whose pain is not related to mechanical issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a wearable sensor system that can diagnose mechanical causes of low back pain and assist in rehabilitation. By using innovative elastomer-based nano-composite sensors, the system aims to objectively measure movement and spinal kinematics in patients. This information will help healthcare providers understand the underlying issues contributing to back pain and tailor rehabilitation strategies accordingly. The approach combines advanced biosensing technology with practical applications in physical therapy and pain management.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and personalized rehabilitation plans for patients suffering from low back pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using wearable technology for pain assessment and rehabilitation, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham Young University
Provo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bowden, Anton E. — Brigham Young University
- Study coordinator: Bowden, Anton E.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.