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Psoas Muscle Release in Non-specific Mechanical Low Back Pain
Sponsor: Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde do Porto
Summary
Nonspecific low back pain affects approximately 80% of the population at some point in their lives. The psoas muscle-positioned between the lumbar and pelvic regions-together with the paravertebral muscles, constitutes the primary muscular group responsible for dynamic stabilization of the spine. Alterations in this muscle may contribute to the onset of low back pain by modifying spinal biomechanics, particularly through increased lumbar lordosis and greater mechanical overload in the lumbar region. Latent myofascial trigger points are asymptomatic but can lead to muscle shortening and weakness. They are characterized by local tenderness and may provoke a localized muscular response known as a local twitch response. The aim of this randomized experimental study was to evaluate the immediate effect of ischemic compression applied to the trigger point of the psoas muscle on pain perception and lumbar range of motion. Researchers will compare a group with a placebo technique to see if the release of the psoas muscle produces effects in this condition. The variables analyzed in this study included low back pain, assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS); lateral lumbar flexion (right and left), measured using a tape measure (distance from the third finger to the floor); and lumbar flexion range of motion, assessed using the Schober test.
Official title: Efficacy of Psoas Muscle Release in Young Adults With Non-specific Mechanical Low Back Pain: Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 30 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2026-04
Completion Date
2026-09
Last Updated
2025-09-16
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Trigger point release
Ischemic compression technique is based on the application of manual pressure to treat trigger points. The patient was asked to lie in the supine position on the examination table. The osteopath identified the muscle through deep palpation and movement-based muscle differentiation, then applied 90 seconds of tolerable pressure to the trigger point on both sides.
Simulation of the intestinal listening technique.
The patient will be asked to lie in a supine position on the treatment table to simulate the listening technique for assessing the mobility and motility of the small intestine without influencing the final results, with the sensory hand placed below the umbilicus.