Strain Counter Strain and Muscle Energy Technique for non-specific low back pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

The trial investigates the effects of two manual therapy approaches, strain-counterstrain and muscle energy technique, on adults aged 20–40 with chronic non-specific low back pain lasting 3–6 months. Participants are assigned to two groups and receive targeted manual therapy aimed at reducing myofascial trigger points and improving muscle function in the lower back. Outcomes likely include pain intensity and disability measures, with exclusion of patients who have red flag conditions or recent spinal surgery. The study is conducted at Riphah Rehabilitation Clinic in Lahore, led by Riphah International University. Results could inform non-surgical options for muscle-related low back pain.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Participants should age between 20-40 years.
* Both gender were included.
* Participants were required to have experienced LBP lasting three to six months.
* According to Simons' criteria participants were required to have at least 3 active myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in their lower back muscles.
* 20-40% score on the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), have Numerical Pain Rating Scale \[NPRS\] ≥ 4.

Exclusion Criteria:

* The patients with red flag conditions; disc prolapse, spinal stenosis, lumbar radiculopathy and spondylosis were excluded.
* Patients who had undergone previous surgery within the last six months, psychiatric or mental deficiencies, pregnancy, or lactation.
* Participants with conditions, like osteoporosis, kidney and gastrointestinal disorders.
* Individuals with a history of spinal surgery or spinal fractures.
* Participants with congenital leg length discrepancy

Where it's running

• Riphah Rehabilitation Clinic
  Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Syed Shakil ur Rehman, PhD — Riphah International University
• Study coordinator: Syed Shakil ur Rehman, PhD
• Email: Shakil.urrehman@riphah.edu.pk
• Phone: +92 320 786661

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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.