Diaphragm release to reduce low back pain
Official title: Investigating the Effectiveness of Diaphragmatic Release in Patients With Low Back Pain.
Run by Karabuk University · NCT07298109 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial will test whether adding manual diaphragm relaxation to core stabilization exercises helps adults with chronic non-specific low back pain have less pain and better function.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 42 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Karabuk University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Karabük) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 11, 2025 |
| Main results expected | October 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | December 23, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT07298109 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18–65 with chronic non-specific low back pain (pain between the gluteal folds and the 12th ribs for at least 12 weeks) who are willing to participate are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with specific spinal pathology (e.g., spinal malignancy, fracture), major neurological disease, advanced osteoporosis, recent lumbar surgery or acute lumbar infection, or severe psychiatric disorders are excluded and unlikely to 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 interventional trial enrolls adults aged 18-65 with chronic non-specific low back pain and compares spinal stabilization exercises alone to the same exercises plus manual diaphragm release. Participants will receive the assigned interventions and be monitored for changes in pain intensity, disability, quality of life, central sensitization, and trunk muscle endurance. Outcomes are measured using standard clinical and patient-reported instruments over the course of the intervention. The goal is to determine whether targeting the diaphragm adds measurable benefit to a stabilization program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, adding diaphragm relaxation could lessen pain and disability and improve quality of life and trunk muscle endurance for people with chronic non-specific low back pain.
How similar studies have gone: Some small clinical and biomechanical studies suggest diaphragm-targeted techniques can improve breathing and trunk stability, but clinical evidence specifically adding diaphragm release to stabilization programs for low back pain is limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Being between 18-65 years of age * Having been diagnosed with chronic non-specific lower back pain (pain between the gluteal folds and the 12th ribs lasting at least 12 weeks and without a known pathoanatomical cause) * Being willing to participate in the study Exclusion Criteria: * Psychological disorders, mental disorders, cancer, and severe depression * History of primary or metastatic spinal malignancy or spinal fracture * Neurological disease (Hemiplegia, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, etc.) * Having been diagnosed with advanced osteoporosis * Having undergone previous surgery or had an acute infection in the lumbar region
Where it's running
-
Karabuk University, Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Application and Research Center
Karabük, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Musa Güneş, PhD — Karabuk University
- Study coordinator: Musa Güneş, PhD
- Email: musagunes@karabuk.edu.tr
- Phone: 03704789081
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.