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Percussive Therapy vs Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain.
Sponsor: Riphah International University
Summary
This study compares percussive therapy and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) for chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP). Percussive therapy uses handheld devices for rapid pressure pulses to promote muscle relaxation and pain relief. IASTM employs specialized tools to massage tissues, break down scar tissue, and enhance flexibility and blood flow. The research aims to assess their effects on pain reduction, muscle flexibility, and functional improvement in CNSLBP patients.
Official title: Comparative Effects of Percussive Therapy and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization On Pain, Muscle Flexibility and Function in Patients With Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 50 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
52
Start Date
2025-07
Completion Date
2025-09-20
Last Updated
2025-07-04
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Percussive Therapy
PT will be performed by the same researcher using a hand-held massage gun, tapping at a frequency of 30 Hz (rotational speed 1800 rpm/min) with a flat massage head. Each percussive massage session will last for 15 minutes. This frequency of 30 Hz is chosen based on its effectiveness for myofascial release and previous studies have indicated that a 15-minute duration of back massage is beneficial
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
The Graston group performed as IASTM during 4 weeks. After warmup session, Friction free oil or gel was used to facilitate the device to move over the skin. Gua Sha tools were used. The instrument was kept at 45°, moved over the skin from cranial to caudal for 40-120 Sec on the back, while patients were lying in the prone position.The mobilization with sweeping strokes followed by fanning strokes were applied over the Erector spinae, quadratus lumborum, scrolling the device on the muscle belly from the posterior fascia and sacrum.
Locations (1)
Zafar Hospital
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan