Finite element modeling and analyzing for lumbar muscle electrical activity

Purpose – The purpose of the paper is to present a three-dimensional model and analyze the internal link between surface potential distribution and the electrical activity of lumbar muscles with finite element method. Design/methodology/approach – Finite element method. Findings – The simulated results have shown that there is a significant difference of surface potential topography patterns between low back pain (LBP) patients and normal healthy control. The normal shows symmetrical in contrast with the asymmetrical LBP pattern. Originality/value – It provides a new view to analyze lumbar muscle activity with finite element method, which has a potential clinical application on lumbar muscle function analysis and LBP rehabilitation assessment.