Improving trunk muscle activation in patients with recurrent low back pain

Changing Trunk Muscle Activation in Patients With Recurrent Low Back Pain in Remission

Not applicable Interventional University Ghent · NCT06452030

This study is testing if a special therapy session can help people with recurring low back pain improve their trunk muscle control and overall movement.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment55 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Ghent Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ghent)
Trial IDNCT06452030 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of a single therapy session on trunk muscle activation and lumbopelvic sensorimotor control in individuals with recurrent low back pain who are currently in remission. It aims to assess the validity of clinical tests for measuring multifidus activation and to explore the relationship between clinical assessments and objective measurements taken during functional movements. The study employs various interventions, including specific sensorimotor control training and fascia training, to enhance muscle function and control. By examining these relationships, the study seeks to improve treatment strategies for managing low back pain.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18-65 with a history of recurrent non-specific low back pain in remission.

Not a fit: Patients with acute or chronic low back pain, or those with active extension movement patterns, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective rehabilitation strategies for patients with recurrent low back pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in improving muscle function through targeted exercise therapies, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. People between 18-65 years old
2. Having recurrent non-specific low back pain (LBP) in remission at enrolment:

   * At least 2 episodes of LBP/year, with an 'episode' implying pain lasting a minimum of 24 hours which is preceded and followed by at least 1 month without LBP
   * Minimum LBP intensity during episodes should be ≥2/10 on a numeric rating scale (NRS) from 0 to 10
   * During remission the NRS intensity for LBP should be 0-1/10.
3. Having a dominant flexion movement pattern/ neutral movement pattern

Exclusion Criteria:

1. People \<18 years old or \>65 years old
2. Having any other type of non-specific LBP (acute, subacute, chronic).
3. Having an active extension movement pattern
4. Having any type of blood clotting disorder
5. People with upper-limb complaints that prevent them from exerting (maximum) force with their arms or hands.
6. People that received specific sensorimotor control training or fascia-training in the previous year
7. People with serious underlying conditions (e.g., multiple sclerosis) or severe scoliosis
8. People with a history of spine surgery
9. Pregnant women and women who have given birth in the year before enrolment

Where this trial is running

Ghent

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 Recurrent Low Back PainRemissionLow back painMotor controlExerciseRandomised Controlled Trial
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.