Evaluating low level laser therapy for patients with discogenic lumbar radiculopathy
Effects of Low Level Laser Therapy With and Without Proprioceptive Stimulation on Somatosensation, Pain And Gait Parameters in Patients With Discogenic Lumbar Radiculopathy
This study is testing if adding proprioceptive stimulation to low level laser therapy can help people with disc-related back pain feel better and move more easily compared to just using laser therapy alone.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Ages | 45 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Bahawalpur, Punjab and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05953727 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to assess the effects of low level laser therapy (LLLT) combined with proprioceptive stimulation versus LLLT alone on pain, somatosensation, and gait parameters in patients suffering from discogenic lumbar radiculopathy. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one receiving LLLT with proprioceptive stimulation and the other receiving LLLT alone, with both groups also receiving heating packs. The study will measure outcomes such as pain intensity and functional disability using established scales and tests over a series of treatment sessions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 45-70 with acute unilateral discogenic lumbar radiculopathy and a pain intensity score of 4 or more.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic low back pain lasting more than 4 weeks or those with severe cognitive disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce pain and improve mobility for patients with lumbar radiculopathy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for low level laser therapy in similar patient populations, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age: 45-70years(27) * Both male and female patients * Patients with acute Low Back Pain and unilateral Discogenic Lumbar Radiculopathy with disc bulge confirmed on MRI * Pain intensity score is 4 or more on the numeric pain rating scale (NPRS) * Radiating leg pain symptoms for less than 4 weeks * Numbness and paresthesia in the affected area * Patients with moderate to severe score (21%-60%) in ODI Exclusion Criteria: * Non willing patients * Patients with severely cognitive disorders * History of low back pain for more than 4 weeks * History of any systemic disease such as Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Myopathies, Heart Failure etc * Botulinum toxin injections to any lower extremity muscle in the last 3 months * Malignancy
Where this trial is running
Bahawalpur, Punjab and 1 other locations
- Agile Rehabilitation Complex — Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan (Recruiting)
- Bahawal Victoria Hospital — Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hira Jabeen — Riphah International University
- Study coordinator: Hira Jabeen
- Email: hira.jabeen@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 03234116506
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.