Effects of dry cupping on low back pain
The Short-Term Effects of Dry Cupping the Lumbar Paraspinal Muscles in Individuals with Non-specific Low Back Pain: a Single-Blind Randomized Trial
This study is testing if dry cupping can help people aged 18-55 with non-specific low back pain feel better and move more easily.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Lakehead University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Thunder Bay, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT06469762 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study investigates the impact of dry cupping on the lumbar paraspinal muscles in individuals suffering from non-specific low back pain. Participants will undergo three treatment sessions spaced 48 hours apart, with both an intervention group receiving dry cupping and a placebo group for comparison. The study aims to assess changes in range of motion, blood flow, subjective pain levels, pressure pain threshold, perceived treatment effects, and overall function. Recruitment will target healthy individuals aged 18-55 experiencing non-specific low back pain, utilizing various outreach methods including social media and local clinics.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy males and females aged 18-55 experiencing non-specific low back pain.
Not a fit: Patients with specific low back conditions, recent surgeries, or other serious health issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-invasive treatment option for individuals suffering from non-specific low back pain.
How similar studies have performed: While dry cupping has been used in various contexts, this specific approach to treating non-specific low back pain is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Males and females; * Between the ages of 18 - 55 years; * Experiencing NSLBP; and * Otherwise healthy, and successful completion of the GAQ (Should the participant be currently receiving treatment for NSLBP for another musculoskeletal condition, a wash out period of 2 days (48 hours) will be ensured between their treatment and study participation). Exclusion Criteria: * Any individual with a specific low back or lower body condition (e.g., i.e., spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, osteoporosis, intervertebral disk derangement); * Any individual with a previous or scheduled surgery to the lower body, which may affect their hip and/or knee ROM; * Any individual with previous trauma to the lower back area; * Any individual who is diagnosed with cancer; * Any individual experiencing referred leg symptoms; * Any individual who is confirmed or suspected to be pregnant; and * Any individual with a confirmed or suspected blood/blood clotting disorder (i.e., hemophiliac).
Where this trial is running
Thunder Bay, Ontario
- Lakehead University — Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Paolo Sanzo, D.Sc.
- Email: psanzo@lakeheadu.ca
- Phone: 8073438010
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.