Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 20 to 48

High-Intensity Interval Training vs Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training for Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain

Official title: Comparison of High-Intensity Interval Training With Moderate-Intensity Connuous Training In Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain Patients: Randomized Clinical Trial

Run by Dow University of Health Sciences · NCT07645859 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether a high-intensity interval training program helps reduce pain and improve function more than a moderate, steady-paced program in adults with chronic, non-specific low back pain.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages20 Years to 48 Years
SexAll
Enrollment80 (estimated)
SponsorDow University of Health Sciences
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Karachi)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMay 14, 2026
Main results expectedDecember 2026
Study endsDecember 2026
Registry record updatedJune 12, 2026
Trial IDNCT07645859 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Adults aged 20-48 with chronic (greater than 12 weeks) non-specific low back pain, mild to moderate pain (NPRS 3–5), and mild to moderate disability.

Probably not a fit

Individuals with specific spinal pathology, cardiopulmonary contraindications, pregnancy, recent surgery, or other exclusion criteria may not 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

Participants with chronic non-specific low back pain are randomized to 6 weeks of either high-intensity interval training or moderate-intensity continuous training, with sessions monitored throughout. The study aims to compare impact on pain, disability, and quality of life, and to explore how baseline characteristics relate to outcomes. Interventions involve brisk walking and jogging as feasible, with adjustments for safety. Assessments occur before and after the program to measure changes in symptoms and function.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the approach with HIIT could offer a more effective or time-efficient option to reduce pain and improve daily functioning for people with chronic non-specific low back pain.

How similar studies have gone: Prior research has shown variable results; this trial explores whether HIIT offers advantages over traditional aerobic training in this condition.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Referred patients of back pain persisting for \> 12 weeks with no identifiable specific cause or underlying pathology from DUH OPD who meet the eligibility criteria.
* Age group 20-48 with either gender.
* NPRS score ranging between 3 and 5 (mild to moderate).
* Modified ODI score is mild to moderate.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any client with a specific cause of LBP (neurological problems, fractures, malignancy, infections, or rheumatic diseases such as RA or ankylosing spondylitis).
* Any client with cardiopulmonary problems (recent myocardial infarction, uncontrolled hypertension, asthma, COPD).
* Any client with musculoskeletal disorders \[injuries limiting exercises, spine injuries, recent trauma (fracture), scoliosis by Forward Adam's test\].
* Any client with metabolic conditions (thyroid problems, uncontrolled diabetes).
* Pregnancy / first 3-6 months postpartum.
* Recent surgery.

Where it's running

  • Dr. Ariba Sohail (PT)
    Karachi, Pakistan
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.