Comparing two stretching techniques for treating Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome

Comparison of Post Facilitation Stretch Versus Reciprocal Inhibition in Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Foundation University Islamabad · NCT06534853

This study is testing two different stretching techniques to see which one helps young adults with chronic pain from Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment42 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
SponsorFoundation University Islamabad Academic / other
Locations1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab Province)
Trial IDNCT06534853 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of Post Facilitation Stretch versus Reciprocal Inhibition in patients suffering from Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome. Participants aged 18-35 with chronic pain will be randomly assigned to one of two groups, with both receiving conventional physical therapy. Group A will undergo Post Facilitation Stretch, while Group B will receive Reciprocal Inhibition. Pain levels, lumbar range of motion, leg length discrepancy, and lumbar lordotic angle will be measured before and after the interventions to assess outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18-35 experiencing chronic pain related to Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions such as radiculopathy, previous lower limb surgeries, or those who are pregnant or lactating may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide patients with more effective treatment options for managing pain and improving mobility associated with Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific comparison of Post Facilitation Stretch and Reciprocal Inhibition in Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18-35 years
* Both genders
* Having pain of ≤ 8 on NPRS from at least 3 months
* Pain decreases on supine lying
* Any two of the following findings positive of unilateral quadratus lumborum on physical examination:

  1. Taut bands
  2. Local tenderness
  3. Patient's pain recognition
  4. Pain referral to greater trochanter
  5. Local twitch response

Exclusion criteria:

* Painful isometric muscle testing of hip flexors, abductors, adductors, and extensors
* Previous surgery of lower limb
* Centralization/peripheralization
* Lower back trauma
* Positive SLR
* Radiculopathy
* Fracture/surgery of pelvic and/or hip region
* Diagnosed fibromyalgia or other rheumatic diseases.
* Lactating women
* Intrauterine device
* Pregnant women
* Use of psychiatric medications

Where this trial is running

Rawalpindi, Punjab Province

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 Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome
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.