Making the Unaware Aware: Surface Electromyography to Unmask Tension and Teach Awareness

Poor awareness of covert low-level muscle tension and poor ergonomics can result in chronic muscle bracing and the development of clinical symptoms. This article introduces a simple exercise to teach awareness and control of residual muscle contraction, presents evidence of its effectiveness, and concludes with a case study in which this exercise contributed to the treatment of severe pelvic girdle pain. The authors warn against becoming “captured” by tasks and adjusting to bad ergonomics, and emphasize the importance of enhancing somatic awareness to correct dysponesis before it results in pain and disability.