Effect of lumbar manipulation on back pain and mobility

Effect of Lumbar Manipulation on Intervertebral Motion, Pain, and Disability

Not applicable Interventional Ithaca College · NCT06294132

This study tests if a hands-on treatment for lower back pain can help people move better and feel less pain compared to a fake treatment.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorIthaca College Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ithaca, New York)
Trial IDNCT06294132 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how effective lumbar manipulation is in improving intervertebral motion, pain levels, and disability in individuals with low back pain. It compares the manual assessment of intervertebral motion by physical therapists to ultrasound imaging to determine diagnostic accuracy. Participants will complete surveys to assess their pain and disability before and after receiving either lumbar manipulation or a sham treatment. The study aims to clarify the mechanisms behind the improvements observed after spinal manipulation.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 60 with mechanical low back pain and limited spine mobility.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of spinal surgery, infections, fractures, or certain medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide evidence-based insights into effective treatments for low back pain, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing debate regarding the effectiveness of spinal manipulation, similar studies have shown varying degrees of success in assessing its impact on pain and mobility.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years old to 60 years old
* Individuals with mechanical low back pain who have limited spine mobility without signs of nerve root involvement.

Exclusion Criteria:

Subjects cannot participate in this study if they:

* ever had any type of spinal surgery
* ever had a spinal infection
* ever had a fracture in your spine
* recently had an episode of acute physical trauma ie a motor vehicle accident or a fall and - were not evaluated by a medical practitioner.
* are apprehensive about their spine being manipulated
* have osteoporosis or have been on corticosteroids for an extended period of time
* have Rheumatoid Arthritis
* have Marfans Syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
* currently have cancer or any other illness
* have a bleeding disorder or are now on blood thinning medications
* have symptoms of tingling, numbness, or weakness below the knee
* are unable to remain in a sidelying position for at least 30 minutes
* are currently pregnant

Where this trial is running

Ithaca, New York

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 Pain
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.