Dynamic Lumbar Strengthening Exercises Versus Pilates, Combined With Myofascial Release in Non Specific Chronic Low Back Pain

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of dynamic lumbar strengthening exercises combined with myofascial release versus Pilates combined with myofascial release in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain.

Non-specific chronic low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders affecting adults and is associated with pain, reduced spinal mobility, and functional disability. Exercise-based rehabilitation programs and manual therapy techniques are commonly used to improve functional outcomes in these patients. Dynamic lumbar strengthening exercises focus on improving spinal stability and strengthening trunk musculature, whereas Pilates exercises emphasize core muscle activation, postural control, and controlled movement patterns. Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique used to reduce fascial restrictions, improve soft tissue mobility, and decrease pain.

In this randomized controlled trial, a total of 60 participants aged between 25 and 35 years with non-specific chronic low back pain lasting more than three months will be recruited from the Physiotherapy Department of the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital. Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive dynamic lumbar strengthening exercises combined with myofascial release, while Group B will receive Pilates exercises combined with myofascial release.

Both groups will also receive baseline therapy consisting of therapeutic massage, interferential therapy, and therapeutic ultrasound applied to the lumbosacral region. The exercise programs will be conducted for eight weeks on alternate days, with each session lasting approximately 20-25 minutes.

Outcome measures will include pain intensity assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), functional disability measured using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and lumbar range of motion measured using an inclinometer. Assessments will be conducted at baseline before the intervention and after completion of the 8-week intervention period.

The findings of this study will help determine which exercise approach combined with myofascial release is more effective in reducing pain, improving functional disability, and enhancing spinal mobility in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain. The results may contribute to evidence-based physiotherapy management and improve rehabilitation strategies for patients with chronic low back pain.