Evaluating gastrocnemius muscle function in chronic lumbar radiculopathy
Tensiomyography Evaluation of Gastrocnemius Muscles In Individuals With Chronic Lumbar Radiculopathy
This study is testing how well the calf muscles work in people with chronic lower back pain to see if there are changes that could help improve their recovery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 38 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Cairo University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Sixth of October, Giza Governorate) |
| Trial ID | NCT06767280 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to assess the neuromuscular characteristics of the gastrocnemius muscles in individuals suffering from chronic lumbar radiculopathy using tensiomyography (TMG). By measuring parameters such as muscle contraction time, displacement, and relaxation time, the study seeks to identify alterations in muscle properties that may contribute to functional limitations in this patient group. The findings could enhance understanding of the gastrocnemius muscles' role in neuromuscular dysfunction and inform personalized rehabilitation strategies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-55 with a clinical diagnosis of chronic lumbar radiculopathy confirmed by MRI and symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks.
Not a fit: Patients with acute lumbar radiculopathy, severe musculoskeletal disorders, or neurological conditions other than lumbar radiculopathy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation approaches for patients with chronic lumbar radiculopathy.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of tensiomyography in muscle assessment is established, this specific application in chronic lumbar radiculopathy is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18-55 years. * Clinical diagnosis of chronic lumbar radiculopathy confirmed by MRI and clinical examination. * Presence of symptoms for more than 12 weeks. * One limb is affected by the condition, while the other limb is unaffected and will serve as the control. Exclusion Criteria: * ● Acute lumbar radiculopathy (symptoms less than 12 weeks). * History of lower limb surgery or severe musculoskeletal disorders affecting the plantar flexor muscles. * Neurological disorders other than lumbar radiculopathy (e.g., peripheral neuropathy, multiple sclerosis). * Severe comorbid conditions that might interfere with the study (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes, severe cardiovascular disease). * Pregnant or breastfeeding women. * Participation in another clinical trial within the last 30 days. * Use of medications that could affect muscle function (e.g., corticosteroids, muscle relaxants).
Where this trial is running
Sixth of October, Giza Governorate
- Cleopatra October Hospital — Sixth of October, Giza Governorate, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ahmed Mostafa Nassef, DPT
- Email: ahmed4nassef@gmail.com
- Phone: +201093553771
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.