Effects of Shockwave Therapy Versus Ultrasound Therapy Among Patients With Chronic Sciatica (NCT07710924) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Effects of Shockwave Therapy Versus Ultrasound Therapy Among Patients With Chronic Sciatica
Pakistan66 participantsStarted 2025-06-30
Plain-language summary
Sciatica is characterized by radiating pain, functional limitations, reduced flexibility, disturbed sleep, and impaired quality of life. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) and Therapeutic Ultrasound are commonly used physiotherapy modalities for pain relief and tissue healing; however, evidence directly comparing their effectiveness remains limited. This randomized controlled trial compares the effects of Shockwave Therapy and Ultrasound Therapy, each combined with conventional physiotherapy, on pain intensity, hamstring range of motion, sleep quality, and quality of life in patients with chronic sciatica.
Who can participate
Age range
20 Years – 45 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:
* Adults aged 20-45 years.
* Clinically diagnosed chronic sciatica.
* Radiating pain below the knee.
* Positive Straight Leg Raise test (30°-70°).
* Pain intensity ≥4/10 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale.
* Symptoms persisting for at least 3 months.
* Presence of tingling, numbness, lumbar radiculopathy, or piriformis syndrome.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Lumbar disc herniation.
* Progressive neurological disorders.
* Ankylosing spondylitis.
* Paget disease.
* Tuberculosis.
* Malignancy.
* Rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory disorders.
* Previous spinal surgery or fracture.
* Fever, unexplained weight loss, or systemic illness.
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.