NCT07328126

Effect of Muscle Energy Technique on Latissimus Dorsi on Pain , Functional Disability and Range of Motion in Patients With Mechanical Low Back Pain

• Status: Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 32 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Foundation University Islamabad · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 30 Years – 55 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

Mechanical low back pain (LBP) stems from spinal structures or surrounding tissues, often caused by overuse or trauma, and is prevalent globally with high recurrence rates. Key contributing factors include biomechanical, psychological, and social elements. The latissimus dorsi (LD), along with other back muscles, plays a crucial role in lumbar stability via the thoracolumbar fascia. Stretching the LD has shown positive effects in reducing pain and improving function in chronic LBP patients. Physical therapy treatments include manual therapy, core stabilization, and flexibility exercises. Muscle Energy Techniques (MET), particularly targeting the LD, can enhance flexibility and spinal mobility when applied correctly.

Detailed description

Mechanical low back pain (MLBP) originates from structural components of the spine, such as intervertebral discs, muscles, ligaments, or joints, and is commonly caused by repetitive trauma, poor posture, or overuse. It is a leading cause of functional disability worldwide, with high recurrence rates. Physiotherapy plays a central role in managing MLBP by addressing contributing biological, psychological, and social factors. The latissimus dorsi (LD) muscle, due to its anatomical connection with the pelvis via the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF), significantly influences lumbar stability. Impaired extensibility or overactivity of the LD can contribute to mechanical dysfunction. Incorporating LD stretching into rehabilitation protocols has shown enhanced outcomes in pain reduction and functional improvement. Muscle Energy Techniques (MET), particularly Post Facilitation Stretching, utilize controlled muscle contractions to improve flexibility and relieve tension in shortened muscles. Proper application of MET targeting the LD has demonstrated effectiveness in increasing range of motion and supporting spinal stability in patients with chronic low back pain.

Conditions

• Mechanical Low Back Pain

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
PROCEDURE	Conservative physical therapy	Hot pack + TENS (10 min), followed by a structured program of warm-up, 20-minute core/back strengthening, stretching (hip flexors, hamstrings, lumbar extensors), and cool-down exercises.
PROCEDURE	Post-facilitation stretch of latissimus dorsi with conservative physical therapy	Receives the same conservative physical therapy as the control group plus Latissimus Dorsi Muscle Energy Technique (isometric contraction for 10seconds, relaxation 2-3seconds, followed by 10seconds stretch, applied bilaterally each session).

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-01-25
• Primary completion: 2025-12-30
• Completion: 2026-12-15
• First posted: 2026-01-08
• Last updated: 2026-01-08

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Pakistan