Moderate-load eccentric core exercises versus Pilates for adults with non-specific low back pain
Comparison of Moderate Load Eccentric Core Exercises and Pilates in Patients With Non-Specific Low Back Pain
NA · Foundation University Islamabad · NCT07332390
This project will test whether moderate-load eccentric core exercises or Pilates work better to reduce pain and improve function in adults 18–45 with chronic non-specific low back pain.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 44 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT07332390 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Adults aged 18–45 with non-specific low back pain lasting more than three months are assigned to either a supervised program of moderate-load eccentric core exercises or a supervised Pilates program. Outcomes measured before and after the intervention include pain intensity, joint position error (proprioception), lumbar range of motion, and core muscle endurance. Participants with radicular symptoms, structural spinal disease, recent surgery, pregnancy, or very severe acute pain are excluded. The comparison aims to determine which exercise approach better restores neuromuscular control and reduces persistent pain.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults 18–45 years old with non-specific low back pain for more than three months and pain rated 3–8 on the numeric pain rating scale, without neurological signs or major spinal pathology.
Not a fit: People with radicular leg symptoms, clear structural spinal disease (e.g., spondylolisthesis, significant scoliosis), recent abdominal/spinal/lower limb surgery, pregnancy, or very severe acute pain (NPRS >8) are unlikely to benefit from this program and are excluded.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, one of these exercise programs could offer a practical, non-surgical way to reduce pain, improve core control and proprioception, and lower the chance of recurrent low back pain.
How similar studies have performed: Pilates has shown modest benefit for chronic low back pain in prior trials, while moderate-load eccentric core training is less well-studied and supported mainly by smaller or mechanistic studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * • Adults 18 to 45 years * Both genders * Low back (from T12 to buttock line) pain for more than 3 months * Non-specific low back pain i.e. signs or symptoms not attributable to any specific structure * Low back pain on 3-8 NPRS Exclusion Criteria: * • Acute flare Low Back Pain * Low back pain on NPRS (\>8) * Thoracic pain * Centralization and peripheralization of pain * Leg symptoms when walking, eased in flexion (Signs of stenosis) * Pain due to repetitive movement * Paresthesia/numbness * Structural deformity (scoliosis, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis) * Curve reversal * Pregnancy * Post-surgery (within 6 months of abdominal, spinal, or lower limb surgery) * Degenerative or inflammatory spinal diseases * Malignancy
Where this trial is running
Islamabad, Punjab Province
- Foundation University Islamabad — Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Tehreem Zahra, DPT
- Email: tehreemzahra2310@gmail.com
- Phone: 0334-9709725
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.
Conditions: Low Back Pain