NCT07318454

Comparison of Abdominal Expansion and Abdominal Drawing-In Training With Manual and Verbal Cueing in Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Abdominal Expansion and Abdominal Drawing-In Training With Manual and Verbal Cueing in Individuals With Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 96 (estimated)
• Sponsor: National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study aims to investigate the interactive effects of two core stability training strategies-abdominal drawing-in manoeuvre (ADIM) and Dynamic Neuromusculoskeletal Stabilization abdominal expansion (DNS-AE)-and two instructional approaches (verbal cueing and manual facilitation) on training outcomes in individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain. A 2×2 factorial randomized controlled trial design will be employed. Ninety-six participants with chronic non-specific low back pain will be randomly allocated, using block randomization, to one of four intervention groups in equal proportions. All groups will receive a 4-week intervention program, with training conducted twice per week. Outcome measures will be assessed at four time points: before the intervention (baseline), immediately after the first training session, at the completion of the 4-week intervention, and at a 3-month follow-up, to evaluate short-term and mid-term effects as well as the sustainability of training outcomes.

Conditions

• Chronic Low Back Pain (Non-specific, Uncomplicated)

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Abdominal Drawing-In Manoeuvre Training	Abdominal drawing-in manoeuvre (ADIM) training is a core stability exercise strategy emphasizing selective activation and coordination of the deep abdominal musculature to enhance local trunk stability. Participants receive individualized, one-on-one training delivered by licensed physical therapists, conducted twice weekly for 4 weeks. Training is performed across functional positions and task-specific movements, with instruction provided using either verbal cueing or manual facilitation according to group allocation.
BEHAVIORAL	Dynamic Neuromusculoskeletal Stabilization Abdominal Expansion Training	Dynamic Neuromusculoskeletal Stabilization abdominal expansion (DNS-AE) training focuses on coordinated breathing and abdominal expansion to facilitate intra-abdominal pressure regulation and integrated postural control. Participants receive individualized, one-on-one training delivered by licensed physical therapists, conducted twice weekly for 4 weeks. Training is performed across functional positions and task-specific movements, with instruction provided using either verbal cueing or manual facilitation according to group allocation.

Timeline

• Start date: 2026-04-01
• Primary completion: 2026-06-30
• Completion: 2026-09-30
• First posted: 2026-01-06
• Last updated: 2026-01-23