PhD Studentship: Biofeed-Back: Testing Novel High-Density EMG Biofeedback in Chronic, Non-Specific Low Back Pain

Manchester Metropolitan University

Chronic, non-specific low back pain (CLBP), is a leading cause of disability globally, placing a substantial burden on healthcare providers as there are no effective treatments which consistently reduce pain. However, recent research has shown that even where there is no clear cause of the CLBP, people use their muscles differently compared to those without pain, presenting an opportunity to develop novel rehabilitation techniques.

This project will integrate state-of the-art technology and use a biopsychosocial lens to explore this opportunity. We will investigate how we can use detailed biofeedback in people with CLBP to alter the way their muscles contract and explore the impact this has on pain symptoms and task performance. This project will integrate experimental research with the patient and practitioner voice to develop an optimised training approach. We will then use a longitudinal intervention to implement the training and assess the impact of altering muscle activity on pain symptoms.

A successful candidate will work with experts in chronic pain at the MMU Institute of Sport and collaborate with leading researchers across the globe. The results of this project will underpin the development of novel rehabilitation approaches to improve pain related outcomes.

Project aims and objectives

Project Aim: To explore the efficacy of targeted novel HDEMG biofeedback in the form of colourised maps of muscle activity in individuals with CNSLBP across multiple sessions.

Specific Objectives

• Identify optimal biofeedback practices (movement, dosage, duration) through a scoping review, patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE), and a feasibility study
• Implement a longitudinal biofeedback training programme in people with CNSLBP to assess the influence on pain symptoms and the acceptability of the technique as an intervention
• Assess the impact of psychosocial pain characteristics on the efficacy of biofeedback

Funding

Only home students can apply. Home tuition fees will be covered for the duration of the 3.5-year award, which is £5,238 for the year 2026/27.

The student will receive a standard stipend payment for the duration of the award. These payments are set at a level determined by the UKRI, currently £21,805 for the academic year 2026/27.

Specific requirements of the candidate

Essential criteria

The ideal candidate will have an undergraduate degree in a field related to sport and exercise sciences, kinesiology, health psychology or physiotherapy (minimum 2.1 BScHons). A master’s degree in one of these subjects will be looked favourably on but is not essential.

Experience working in a movement laboratory, working with biofeedback, working with individuals with chronic pain, and/or prior experience collecting muscle activity data is desirable but not essential.

How to apply

Interested applicants should contact Dr Andy Sanderson for an informal discussion.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full time PhD in Sports & Exercise Science

Please complete the Doctoral Project Applicant Form, and include your CV and a short covering letter to demonstrate how your skills and experience map to the aims and objectives of the project, the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest.

Please upload these documents in the supporting documents section of the University’s Admissions Portal.

Applications closing date: 20th May 2026

Expected start date: October 2026.

Please quote the reference: SciEng-AS-2026-27-Biofeed-Back