In the lumbar paraspinal NMES setup, how is the pelvis positioned?

• A. Pelvis strapped to the table in neutral
• B. Pelvis strapped to the table in PPT
• C. Pelvis loose
• D. Pelvis strapped in standing position

Answer: (B)

Stabilizing and aligning the pelvis is essential for effective lumbar paraspinal NMES. In this setup, the pelvis is strapped to the table and positioned in a posterior pelvic tilt. Securing the pelvis prevents movement from the hips or pelvis during stimulation, which helps keep the current path focused on the lumbar paraspinals rather than spreading to other muscles.

The posterior tilt also flattens the lumbar curve, putting the spine in a position that makes the paraspinal muscles more consistently reachable by the electrical field and reduces compensatory movements. If the pelvis were loose or the patient stood, pelvic motion or changes in spinal alignment could shift the stimulation target, increase unwanted muscle recruitment, and reduce comfort and effectiveness. Strapping with a posterior tilt offers stable, repeatable conditions for delivering NMES to the lumbar paraspinals.