Psoas Muscle Release in Non-specific Mechanical Low Back Pain (NCT06994364) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
Psoas Muscle Release in Non-specific Mechanical Low Back Pain
40 participantsStarted 2026-04
Plain-language summary
Nonspecific low back pain affects approximately 80% of the population at some point in their lives.
The psoas muscle-positioned between the lumbar and pelvic regions-together with the paravertebral muscles, constitutes the primary muscular group responsible for dynamic stabilization of the spine. Alterations in this muscle may contribute to the onset of low back pain by modifying spinal biomechanics, particularly through increased lumbar lordosis and greater mechanical overload in the lumbar region.
Latent myofascial trigger points are asymptomatic but can lead to muscle shortening and weakness. They are characterized by local tenderness and may provoke a localized muscular response known as a local twitch response.
The aim of this randomized experimental study was to evaluate the immediate effect of ischemic compression applied to the trigger point of the psoas muscle on pain perception and lumbar range of motion.
Researchers will compare a group with a placebo technique to see if the release of the psoas muscle produces effects in this condition.
The variables analyzed in this study included low back pain, assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS); lateral lumbar flexion (right and left), measured using a tape measure (distance from the third finger to the floor); and lumbar flexion range of motion, assessed using the Schober test.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 30 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age between 18 and 30 years.
* Presence of low back pain for less than 1 month.
* Presence of a latent trigger point in the psoas muscle.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Volunteers with low back pain caused by: Disc herniation, Tumor, Infection, Fracture, Osteoporosis, Structural deformity or Inflammation.
* Individuals with a history of spinal surgery.
* Continuous use of analgesics.
* Participants who had undergone manual therapy in the previous month.
* Pregnant individuals.
* Obese individuals.
* Students of Osteopathy (from the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year) and professionals in the manual therapy field.
* Participants presenting red flags for osteopathic intervention.
* Individuals with cognitive impairments that hindered their ability to understand the study/project.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Low back pain
Timeframe: Immediately after the intervention
2
Range of motion
Timeframe: Immediately after the intervention
Trial details
NCT IDNCT06994364
SponsorEscola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde do Porto