Non Specific Chronic Low Back Pain
Conditions
Keywords
low back pain, Diacutaneous Fibrolysis, Graston Technique, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization
Brief summary
This randomized clinical trial compared Graston Technique (GT) and Diacutaneous Fibrolysis (DF) in 30 patients with non-specific low back pain. Both treatments significantly reduced pain and disability and improved lumbar mobility. However, DF was more effective than GT in improving functional disability and lumbar flexion, while both techniques showed similar effects on pain, lumbar extension, and lateral flexion. Overall, DF may be preferable when improving functional ability is the main treatment goal.
Detailed description
This study was a two-arm parallel randomized clinical trial designed to compare the effectiveness of Graston Technique (GT) and Diacutaneous Fibrolysis (DF) in patients with non-specific low back pain (NSLBP). The main purpose was to determine whether one technique provided greater improvement in pain, lumbar mobility, and functional disability. A total of 30 patients with NSLBP participated in the study. They were randomly divided into two equal groups: 15 participants received Graston Technique (GT) and 15 received Diacutaneous Fibrolysis (DF). Outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention. The researchers evaluated several important clinical outcomes. Pain intensity was measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Functional disability was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Lumbar mobility was evaluated using inclinometric measurements of lumbar flexion, extension, right lateral flexion, and left lateral flexion. The Modified Schober Test was also used to assess lumbar flexion mobility and determine whether participants had restricted or normal lumbar movement. .
Interventions
OTHERGraston Technique
Graston Technique (GT) is a form of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) that uses specially designed stainless-steel instruments to identify and treat areas of soft-tissue restriction, adhesions, and altered tissue mobility. During treatment, the therapist applies the instrument over the affected tissues using controlled strokes and appropriate pressure to facilitate soft-tissue mobilization and improve tissue flexibility. In patients with non-specific low back pain, GT may be applied to the lumbar paraspinal muscles, thoracolumbar fascia, and other relevant soft tissues. The technique is intended to reduce pain, improve soft-tissue mobility, increase lumbar range of motion, and enhance functional performance. In this study, GT is used as the active intervention and its effects are compared with Diacutaneous Fibrolysis on pain, functional disability, and lumbar mobility.
Diacutaneous Fibrolysis (DF) is a manual therapy technique that uses specially designed hook-shaped instruments to apply pressure and traction to soft tissues. The technique aims to mechanically mobilize areas of fibrosis, adhesions, and restricted connective tissue, particularly around muscles, tendons, fascia, and other anatomical structures. In patients with non-specific low back pain, DF can be applied to the lumbar and thoracolumbar regions to improve tissue mobility and reduce mechanical restrictions. The technique may help decrease pain, improve lumbar range of motion, and enhance functional ability. In this study, DF is used as an active intervention and compared with Graston Technique (GT) to determine which approach provides greater improvement in pain, functional disability, and lumbar mobility.
Sponsors
University of Management and Technology Sialkot Pakistan
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE (Subject)
Masking description
participants
Intervention model description
This study is a two-arm, parallel-group randomized clinical trial (RCT) with a pre-test/post-test interventional design conducted to compare the effectiveness of Graston Technique (GT) and Diacutaneous Fibrolysis (DF) in patients with non-specific low back pain (NSLBP). A total of 30 eligible participants are randomly allocated into two equal groups, with 15 participants receiving GT and 15 receiving DF. Baseline assessments are performed before treatment using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain intensity, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) for functional disability, inclinometric measurements for lumbar range of motion, and the Modified Schober Test for lumbar mobility. Participants receive their assigned intervention according to the study protocol, followed by post-intervention assessment using the same outcome measures. Changes within and between groups are analyzed statistically to determine treatment effectiveness. The interventional model allows direct comparison of the
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
20 Years to 40 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
1. Age 20-40, both male and female participants 2. Diagnosed with non-specific low back pain (pain not attributable to a specific pathology) which is typically localized lumbar pain 3. Pain intensity ≥ 3/10 on NPRS 4. Positive Modified Schober Test 5. Reduced functional ability (e.g. score on Oswestry Disability Index ODI ≥ mild/moderate disability). 6. Capable and eager to provide written informed permission and attend therapy sessions and follow-ups 7. Not currently receiving other structured physiotherapy/manual therapy for LBP
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| numeric pain rating scale for pain | 4 weeks | Numerical Pain Rating Scale for pain |
| Oswestry Disability index scale for disability | 4 weeks | Oswestry Disability index scale for diability |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Modified Schober test for ROM and flexibilty | 4 weeks | Modified Schober test for ROM and flexibilty |
| Digital Inclinometer for ROM | 4 weeks | Digital Inclinometer for ROM |
Countries
Pakistan
Contacts
PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATORdanyal ahmad ahmad, phd scholar
university of management and technology
Outcome results
None listed