Lumbar Radiculopathy
Conditions
Keywords
flexibility, lumbar radiculopathy, myokinetic stretching, neural flossing, pain, mobility
Brief summary
This single-blinded randomized clinical trial aims to evaluate the comparative effects of Myokinetic Stretching Technique (MST) alone versus MST combined with Neural Flossing Technique (NFT) in individuals with lumbar radiculopathy. A total of 22 participants aged 25-55 will be recruited through non-probability convenience sampling from rehabilitation clinics in Lahore and randomly assigned to two intervention groups
Detailed description
This single-blinded randomized clinical trial aims to evaluate the comparative effects of Myokinetic Stretching Technique (MST) alone versus MST combined with Neural Flossing Technique (NFT) in individuals with lumbar radiculopathy. A total of 22 participants aged 25-55 will be recruited through non-probability convenience sampling from rehabilitation clinics in Lahore and randomly assigned to two intervention groups. Both groups will receive treatment thrice weekly for six weeks. Outcome measures include pain intensity (NPRS), functional disability (ODI), flexibility (Sit and Reach Test, Modified Schober Test), and trunk strength (Functional Trunk Strength Tests). Data will be analyzed using SPSS v24, with appropriate statistical tests applied based on data distribution.
Interventions
OTHERMyokinetic stretching
* Light aerobic activity (e.g., stationary cycling or brisk walking) to increase blood flow and prepare muscles for stretching• Myokinetic Stretching Technique (MST): - Target muscles: hamstrings, lumbar paraspinals, gluteals, hip flexors. - Involves both active (patient-initiated) and passive (therapist-assisted) stretches. * Sustained stretches held for 20-30 seconds with 3-5 repetitions. * Focus on length-tension balance, postural correction, and neuromuscular re- education. Progressive loading as tolerated
OTHERnyokinetic stretching with neural flossing technique
* Myokinetic stretching with Neural Flossing Technique (NFT): - * Target: sciatic nerve and related neural structures. - * Performed as oscillatory, controlled gliding movements ("sliders" and "tensioners"). * Techniques include supine straight leg raise with ankle dorsiflexion and cervical flexion/extension. - 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions, increasing intensity and duration based on tolerance. Aims to reduce neural tension and improve neurodynamic mobility.
Sponsors
Riphah International University
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE (Outcomes Assessor)
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
30 Years to 50 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
• Age between 30-50 years * Clinically pre diagnosed lumbar radiculopathy * Radiating low back pain persisting for \>3 weeks * Positive Straight Leg Raise Test (SLR) or Slump Test * LDI or Oswestry Disability Index \<50%
Exclusion criteria
• Recent spinal surgery or acute spinal trauma * Pregnancy , Inflammatory or autoimmune spinal diseases * Severe neurological deficits * Inability to participate in active exercises or follow instructions
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) | baseline to 4 week | The Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) measures a patient's self-reported pain intensity on a scale from 0 to 10. A score of 0 indicates no pain, 1-3 is mild, 4-6 is moderate, and 7-10 represents severe pain. |
| Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) | baseline to 4 week | The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) is used to assess the impact of low back pain on a patient'sADLs. It includes 10 sections, 0 to 5each, with the total score expressed as a percentage. The results categorize disability from minimal (0-20%) to bed-bound or exaggerated symptoms (81-100%), helping quantify the degree of functional limitation |
| Sit and Reach Test | baseline to 4 week | The Sit and Reach Test is used to assess the flexibility of the hamstrings and lower back. The patient sits with legs extended and reaches forward along a marked measuring line. Scores above 10 cm indicate excellent flexibility, 0-10 cm is average, and negative values suggest poor flexibility, often linked to hamstring tightness or lumbar dysfunction. |
| Muscle Strength Assessment: Functional Trunk Strength Tests | baseline to 4 week | Functional Trunk Strength Tests assess the strength and endurance of lumbar flexors and extensors through movements like sit-ups or back extensions. The patient performs prone chest raises. Greater repetitions or longer hold times indicate better trunk strength and endurance, while early fatigue suggests weakness. |
| Modified Schober Test | baseline to 4 week | The Modified Schober Test assesses lumbar spine flexibility during forward bending by measuring the increase in distance between marked points on the lower back. An increase of ≥5 cm indicates normal lumbar mobility, while \<5 cm suggests restricted flexion. |
Countries
Pakistan
Contacts
PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATORAnam Iqbal, DPT
Riphah International University
Outcome results
None listed