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Acute Effects of Thoracolumbar Fascia Myofascial Release on Cortical Activity
Sponsor: Hitit University
Summary
This study will examine the immediate (acute) effects of a single myofascial release technique applied to the thoracolumbar fascia on brain activity in healthy young adults aged 18-25. Using a sham-controlled, randomized design, participants will be assigned to either an active treatment group, receiving a 10-minute myofascial release technique to the lower back, or a sham control group, receiving light surface touch to the same area for the same duration without any therapeutic pressure or movement. Brain activity will be recorded using a portable, 8-channel wireless EEG system before the intervention, shortly after it (0-10 minutes), and again 30 minutes later, allowing researchers to track how cortical activity changes over time. Measurements will focus on sensorimotor rhythms (mu rhythm) and posterior alpha power, along with heart rate variability, to assess whether the myofascial technique produces effects that go beyond those of simple touch. The main goal is to determine whether this hands-on technique produces a measurable, distinct pattern of brain activity compared to a sham (placebo-like) touch condition.
Official title: Acute Effects of Thoracolumbar Fascia Myofascial Release Technique on Cortical Activity: A Sham-Controlled Randomized Study
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 25 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
124
Start Date
2026-09-01
Completion Date
2028-08-31
Last Updated
2026-07-29
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
Thoracolumbar Fascia Myofascial Release (Pilat MIF Crossed-Hands Technique)
A manual myofascial release technique applied for 10 minutes to the thoracolumbar fascia (T10-L4 region) in the prone position. The therapist's hands are placed in a crossed configuration over the fascia, applying sustained moderate pressure (1.5-2.5 kg) without rapid movement, aiming to release tension in the fascia's laminar and posterior layers. The technique is delivered by a certified myofascial therapist trained in the Pilat Myofascial Induction (MIF) method.
Sham (Light Surface Touch)
A sham condition consisting of light, static surface contact (\<0.5 kg) applied to the same thoracolumbar region as the active technique, for the same 10-minute duration and in the same prone position. No therapeutic pressure, sliding, or manipulation is applied. This condition controls for the effects of therapist contact, positioning, and expectation, isolating the specific effect of the myofascial release technique itself.
Locations (1)
Amasya University
Amasya, Turkey (Türkiye)