Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 19 to 35

Autogenic Inhibition vs Reciprocal Inhibition in Lower Crossed Syndrome

Official title: Comparative Effects of Autogenic Inhibition vs Reciprocal Inhibition in Patients With Lower Cross Syndrome

Run by Foundation University Islamabad · NCT07838558 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether two Muscle Energy Technique approaches work differently for people with Lower Crossed Syndrome.

More Upper Cross Syndrome trials

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages19 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
Enrollment46 (estimated)
SponsorFoundation University Islamabad
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Islamabad, Punjab Province)
StatusRecruiting
StartedFebruary 12, 2026
Main results expectedDecember 18, 2026
Study endsJanuary 18, 2027
Registry record updatedSeptember 24, 2026
Trial IDNCT07838558 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Adults aged 19–35 with a clinical diagnosis of Lower Crossed Syndrome confirmed by at least three positive tests.

Probably not a fit

Individuals outside the specified age range or without the defined LCS criteria may not benefit from this intervention.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized trial compares Autogenic Inhibition MET with Reciprocal Inhibition MET in adults with Lower Crossed Syndrome. Both groups receive six weeks of therapy (18 sessions total) plus a standardized set of core strengthening exercises. Each session begins with a lumbar hot pack, followed by the assigned MET targetting the iliopsoas, rectus femoris, and erector spinae, with 20-30% maximal isometric contractions and 30-second stretches. Outcomes will be assessed to see which technique more effectively improves muscle balance and functional measures related to posture and pain. The trial is conducted at Foundation University College of Physical Therapy in Islamabad, with flexible inclusion for adults aged 19–35 and specific clinical criteria for LCS.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience improved posture, reduced posture-related pain, and better functional balance.

How similar studies have gone: Prior research has shown potential benefits of MET approaches for muscle balance, but direct comparisons in LCS are limited.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

* Age 19-35 years.
* Both genders will include in this study.
* According to Janda's Approach, Clinical diagnosis of LCS based on ≥3 positive clinical tests.
* Patient with positive modified Thomas test, Patients with a positive testing of prone hip extension test, Patients with a positive test of trunk flexion test, Patients with tight erector spinae muscles.
* Participants with no lumbar pain to moderate lumbar pain (NPRS0-6) will be included.
* Painless movement and activity.
* Pain only produced by sustained loading in relevant position, which is then relieved after maintaining a corrected posture for 5 minutes, indicating posture-related pain.

Exclusion Criteria

* Leg symptoms when walking, eased in flexion (Signs of stenosis)
* Pain due to repetitive movement
* Lumbar Radiculopathy
* Neurological Symptoms (Paresthesia/numbness)
* Structural deformity (Kyphosis, lordosis, scoliosis, spondylosis, spondylolysis, spondylolisthesis)

Where it's running

  • Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
    Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.