Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Evaluating Pain and Functional Outcomes of Active Release Technique Versus Strain-counter- Stain in Chronic Low Back Pain
Sponsor: Ibadat International University, Islamabad
Summary
clinical trial aims to compare the effects of Active Release Technique (ART) and Strain-Counter-Strain (SCS) on pain reduction and functional improvement in male patients aged 30-45 years with chronic low back pain (CLBP) persisting for at least 3-4 months. CLBP is a widespread and debilitating condition with significant impact on quality of life, healthcare costs, and work productivity. ART focuses on releasing myofascial adhesions and alleviating trigger points through manual pressure and movement, while SCS is a passive positional technique designed to reduce neuromuscular tension and restore range of motion. A total of 40 participants will be randomly allocated into two equal groups (ART group and SCS group). Both groups will receive standardized baseline treatment including a hot pack and interferential current therapy, followed by their respective intervention protocols for 12 sessions over 4 weeks. Pain intensity will be measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), functional disability using the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale (QBPDS), and functional limitation using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Data will be analyzed using SPSS v25, applying paired and independent t-tests or their non-parametric equivalents, with a significance level of p \< 0.05. The study is expected to provide evidence-based insight into which intervention is more effective in improving pain and functional outcomes in CLBP. The findings may help guide clinical decision-making, contribute to treatment guidelines, and support cost-effective, patient-centered management approaches.
Official title: Evaluating Pain and Functional Outcomes of Active Release Technique Versus Strain-counter- Stain in Chronic Low Back Pain .A Randomized Clinical Trial
Key Details
Gender
MALE
Age Range
30 Years - 45 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2025-05-05
Completion Date
2025-08-15
Last Updated
2026-05-11
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Strain Counter Strain
Technique: Gentle, passive positioning of affected muscles to reduce pain and dysfunction. * Positioning held for 90 seconds followed by slow return to a neutral position. * Treatment Duration: 12 sessions over 4 weeks (3 sessions per week, 45-minute sessions). both group warm up inclunding a 10 minute hot pack and 15 minute interferantial therapy before the main treatment
Active Release Technique
Technique: Active Release Technique (ART) will be applied using precise manual pressure and movement to release myofascial adhesions in the lumbar and gluteal regions. * Treatment Time: Each session will last 45 minutes, focusing on targeted muscle groups. * Treatment Duration: 12 sessions over 4 weeks (3 sessions per week, 45-minute sessions).both group warm up inclunding a 10 minute hot pack and 15 minute interferantial therapy before the main treatment
Locations (1)
Bilal Hospital Rawalpindi Physiotherapy Department
Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, Pakistan