Comparing elastic resistance and free weight training for low back pain relief

Comparison Of The Effectiveness Of Elastic Resistance Versus Free Weight Training Of Gluteus Medius In Improving Pain, Strength, And Overall Gait Speed In Patients With Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Khyber Medical University Peshawar · NCT06976242

This study is testing whether using elastic bands or free weights can help people with chronic low back pain strengthen their muscles and feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment36 (estimated)
Ages30 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorKhyber Medical University Peshawar Academic / other
Locations1 site (Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa)
Trial IDNCT06976242 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial compares the effectiveness of elastic resistance training and free weight training in strengthening the gluteus medius muscle for patients suffering from chronic non-specific low back pain. The study aims to evaluate improvements in pain, muscle strength, and overall gait speed following each intervention. By assessing both training modalities, the trial seeks to provide evidence-based guidance for clinicians on the most effective rehabilitation strategies for this population. Participants will undergo baseline and post-intervention assessments using validated clinical tools to measure outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 30-60 with chronic non-specific low back pain and measurable weakness in the gluteus medius.

Not a fit: Patients with post-surgical conditions, neurological disorders, or those whose low back pain is not related to gluteus medius weakness may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide patients with effective exercise options to alleviate low back pain and improve mobility.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited evidence comparing elastic resistance and free weight training specifically for this condition, both modalities have shown effectiveness in rehabilitation settings.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 30-60 years
2. Both males and females of any race and ethnicity
3. Musculoskeletal condition that affects the gluteus Medius of hip
4. MMT for gluteus medius is 3 or less than 3
5. chronic stage of nonspecific low back pain
6. Cognitively intact (mini mental scale) and able to walk 10 meters with or without support.
7. Volunteer participations.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Post-surgical conditions like TKR, THR.
2. Any contraindication to exercise.
3. Female individuals who have muscular weakness due to pregnancy
4. Any neurological conditions (myopathies, neuropathies) causing muscular weakness
5. Chronic low back pain in which Gluteus Medius weakness is not measurable.

Where this trial is running

Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Low Back PainGluteus MediusChronic Non-Specific Low Back PainExercise Therapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.