Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for non-invasively predicting the outcome of facet nerve block procedures on patients experiencing lower back pain. A sensor array is configured to capture a set of large array surface electromyographic (LASE) data from a patient. A feature extractor computes at least one value representing the patient from the captured LASE data. A classifier selects one of a plurality of outcome classes for the patient according to the computed at least one value.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for supporting a patient during a medical procedure includes a bead bag (18) that is filled with compressible beads (20) and that forms a lower layer of the apparatus (10). The apparatus (10) also includes a layer of foam material (30) that is located above the bead bag and an air cell grid (36) that has a plurality of inflatable air cells (38). The air cell grid (36) forms an upper layer of the apparatus (10) and provides a soft surface upon which the patient lies. The bead bag (18), when subjected to a vacuum, becomes rigid for supporting the air cell grid (36) against the patient for helping to maximize a surface area of contact between the patient and the apparatus (10).