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Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy Versus Generalized Exercise for Reducing Pain in Surgeons With Chronic Spinal Pain
Sponsor: Claus Kjærgaard
Summary
Surgeons frequently experience chronic spinal pain due to prolonged static postures and repetitive movements during surgical procedures. Exercise therapy is recommended, but it is unclear which type of exercise is most effective for this population. This randomized clinical trial will compare Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), also known as the McKenzie Method, with a structured program of generalized exercise in surgeons with chronic spinal pain who demonstrate a directional preference (i.e., movement in a specific direction that reduces symptoms). Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two interventions and followed for 26 weeks. The primary outcome is spinal pain intensity at 12 weeks measured on a 0-10 scale. Secondary outcomes include function, quality of life, and psychological factors. This pragmatic trial is conducted in outpatient physiotherapy settings and aims to determine whether an individualized exercise approach (MDT) is more effective than generalized exercise in this occupational group.
Official title: Protocol for a Pragmatic, Randomized Controlled, Parallel-group Superiority Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy Versus Generalized Exercise for Reducing Pain in Surgeons With Chronic Spinal Pain and a Directional Preference
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
25 Years - 70 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
62
Start Date
2026-03-30
Completion Date
2027-12
Last Updated
2026-03-20
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT)
A classification-based physiotherapy intervention in which exercises are prescribed based on the individual's directional preference identified during assessment. Treatment includes repeated movements and/or sustained positions, supported by education and advice to promote self-management. Delivered by physiotherapists trained in MDT.
Generalized Exercise
A structured exercise program including strengthening, stretching, and endurance training, adapted to the individual's symptoms and capacity. The intervention does not target directional preference and reflects usual physiotherapy care for chronic spinal pain. Delivered by physiotherapists experienced in musculoskeletal rehabilitation.
Locations (1)
Aalborg University Hospital
Aalborg, Aalborg, Denmark