This pilot study will examine whether osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) can improve both physical and psychological aspects of chronic low back pain by focusing on the interconnected myofascial system of the back, legs, and feet. Twenty adults with chronic low back pain will receive four OMT sessions over 5-7 weeks. Before and after treatment, the investigators will measure muscle stiffness with ultrasound, plantar pressure during walking with a pressure plate, and patient-reported outcomes on pain, disability, sleep quality, stress, anxiety, depression, pain catastrophizing, and pain self-efficacy using surveys. By linking these objective and subjective measures, the study aims to provide early evidence of how OMT may influence musculoskeletal function, daily activity, and overall well-being, helping to guide future larger studies on treatment strategies for low back pain
male and female subjects 18-65 years old
presence of chronic low back > 3 months duration or pain present > 50% of the time within the previous 12 months
prior surgery of the thoracic, lumbar or sacral spine, pelvis
diagnosis lumbar radiculopathy or pinched nerve in the neck
diagnosis of foot condition that alters gait
diagnosis of connective tissue or muscle disorders