Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy vs. a Specific Exercise Program for Nonspecific Low Back Pain
Official title: Effects of Myofascial Chain-Based Specific Exercise and Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy in People With Non-Specific Low Back Pain
Run by National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University · NCT07362420 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether hands-on trigger point therapy, a guided exercise program, or both can reduce pain and improve function in adults with nonspecific low back pain.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 105 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Taipei, Taipei City and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 23, 2026 |
| Main results expected | October 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | November 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | November 3, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07362420 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18–65 with nonspecific low back pain lasting more than six weeks, at least six identifiable myofascial trigger points, and measurable muscle function impairments.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals without multiple trigger points or those unlikely to benefit from either manual therapy or the specified exercise program may see limited or no improvement.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional trial compares three treatment arms: myofascial trigger point manual compression, a chain-based specific exercise program, and a combination of both. Adults aged 18–65 with nonspecific low back pain lasting more than six weeks and notable myofascial findings are randomized to one of the three groups and receive treatment twice weekly. The study aims to determine if combining manual therapy with targeted exercise provides greater pain relief and functional improvement than either approach alone. The design integrates a local manual approach targeting trigger points with a function-focused, myofascial chain-based exercise regimen designed to address stabilizer and mobilizer muscle roles. Outcomes focus on pain intensity and functional measures relevant to daily activities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience greater reductions in pain and improvements in daily function through a combined therapy approach.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in myofascial therapy and targeted exercise has shown benefit in related musculoskeletal pain, though the combined approach for nonspecific low back pain is being tested here.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18 to 65 years * Nonspecific low back pain lasting longer than 6 weeks * Average low back pain intensity of 3 or higher on a 0-10 Numeric Pain Rating Scale * Presence of at least 6 myofascial trigger points identified across bilateral target muscles * Presence of muscle function impairments in at least 6 muscle groups based on functional muscle testing * Able to understand study procedures and participate in an exercise-based intervention * Willing and able to attend treatment sessions and complete study assessments Exclusion Criteria: * Currently pregnant * Diagnosed spondylolisthesis or vertebral compression fracture * Known malignancy or history of cancer affecting the spine * Previous lumbar spine surgery * Known neurological, infectious, or systemic disease that may affect pain or movement * Any other medical condition that, in the opinion of the investigators, would interfere with safe participation in the study
Where it's running
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National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
Taipei, Taiwan, Taiwan Recruiting -
National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
Taipei, Taipei City, Taiwan Not yet recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ya-Lun Wu, PT
- Email: allen06190529.be13@nycu.edu.tw
- Phone: +886 908103159
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.