Hamstring Muscle Tightness

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the combined effects of post-isometric relaxation and myofascial release on pain, flexibility, and functional disability in individuals with low back pain associated with lower cross syndrome. Eligible participants aged 18 to 45 years will be randomly allocated into two parallel intervention groups. One group will receive post-isometric relaxation combined with myofascial release, while the comparison group will receive conventional stretching combined with Therapeutic modalities. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and after completion of the intervention period. The results of this study are expected to contribute to evidence-based physiotherapy management of low back pain associated with postural imbalance.

A research study will be conducted at Physiotherapy department of the Sindh Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Karachi, Pakistan. Overall 156 patients with 18-40 years old individuals with neck pain will be eligible and they will be included through non-probability, purposive sampling technique. The written informed consent will be taken from all the patients. They will be divided through Simple random sampling (computer generated software) method into two groups, 78 in each group. Group A (experimental group) will receive PNF Symmetrical Scapula-Pelvis Patterns (PNF-SSPP), group B (control group) will receive sub occipital muscle inhibition technique (SMI) and static stretching (SS) of hamstring muscle. All participants will be assessed using assessment form. Outcome measures will be Pain, disability, disability, neck range of motions, hamstring tightness, head posture, and levator scapulae index. An independent assessor blinded to the treatment will assess all the patients for treatment outcome assessment at baseline, after first session and post treatment. Treatment sessions will be given thrice a week for 6 weeks.