Immediate effect of muscle energy technique on chronic non-specific low back pain with diaphragm dysfunction - Single group pre-post design

Background

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) to the Quadratus lumborum (QL) and the facilitated psoas traction in pain and disability in non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) patients who have a failed diaphragm test.

Method

Fifty NSCLBP patients aged between 18 and 58 years, presenting with tight psoas major, QL and failed diaphragm test were included. The MET to QL and facilitated psoas traction was administered on alternate days for a total of three sessions. The Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and the Rolland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), were assessed before intervention and after the third session of treatment.

Results

There was a statistically and clinically significant difference in reduction of NPRS 2.8 (95 % CI (2.5–3.1); P < 00.1) and RMDQ (5.4 (95 % CI 4.9–5.9); P < 0.001) after 3 sessions of treatment. The Effect size for NPRS was 2.4 and RMDQ was 1.8.

Conclusion

The application of MET to QL and facilitated psoas traction has shown immediate reduction in pain and disability in NSCLBP patients with diaphragm dysfunction.