Comparative Effects of Dry Needling Versus Soft Tissue Mobilization on Hamstring Tightness in Chronic Low Back Pain

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the effects of dry needling compared to soft tissue mobilization on hamstring muscle tightness in people with chronic low back pain lasting 12 weeks or more. The study focuses on how these treatments affect pain levels, range of motion, and functionality in patients who have difficulty fully extending their knee when the hip is bent at 90 degrees. This trial is a randomized clinical study conducted at Hameed Latif Medical Centre with 30 participants. Participants will be divided into two groups receiving baseline treatments including hot packs applied for 15 minutes on the hamstrings and lower back, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for warm-up and pain relief, and spinal mobilization of grades 1 and 2. Group A will receive dry needling on three points of the hamstring muscle using sterilized disposable needles, while Group B will receive soft tissue mobilization using the Graston technique with a massage cream and instrument applied to the hamstring. Both groups will have 8 sessions total, at a frequency of 2 sessions per week over 4 weeks. During the study, participants will be assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Oswestry Disability Index, inclinometer measurements, and the Active Knee Extension Test at 4 weeks. These evaluations will measure pain, disability, range of motion, and hamstring tightness. The study tracks changes over the treatment period to compare the effects of the two therapies on chronic low back pain and hamstring tightness.

Comparative Effects of Dry Needling Versus Soft Tissue Mobilization on Hamstring Tightness