Thoracic KyphosisNCT06888609
Comparing Back Extensor and Core Stability Training in Kyphosis
A study testing Back Extensor Strengthening Exercises and Core Stability Exercises in people with Thoracic Kyphosis, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
To compare the effects of back extensor strengthening exercises versus core stability exercises on thoracic kyphosis in patients, assessing improvements in posture, spinal alignment, and overall functional outcomes Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Thoracic Kyphosis
- What is being tested?
- Back Extensor Strengthening Exercises and Core Stability Exercises
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 40 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 15 Apr 2025to 31 Dec 2025
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Adults aged 18-40 years with a diagnosis of mild to moderate thoracic kyphosis (Cobb angle between 40° and 60°).
- The presence of back pain or discomfort is attributed to kyphosis.
- Willingness to participate and commit to the study's duration (6 weeks of intervention and follow-up).
- Ability to provide informed consent.
Who cannot join
- Severe thoracic kyphosis (Cobb angle > 60°).
- Other spinal conditions such as scoliosis or spinal fractures.
- Previous spinal surgery or contraindications to physical activity.
- Neurological disorders affecting motor function.
- Pregnancy or severe medical comorbidities that would preclude participation.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Comparison of Back Extensor Strengthening Versus Core Stability Exercise in Patients With Thoracic Kyphosis
To compare the effects of back extensor strengthening exercises versus core stability exercises on thoracic kyphosis in patients, assessing improvements in posture, spinal alignment, and overall functional outcomes
Read the detailed description
Kyphosis is the normal forward curvature of our spine and when this curvature becomes excessively increased is referred to as hyper kyphosis or Hunch back. Its normal value is between 20 and 40 degrees. When the thoracic kyphotic angle exceeds 40 degrees, it is referred to as hyper kyphosis. The three main types of kyphosis often seen in individuals are postural, Structural and congenital. Postural kyphosis is caused by high external load on individual spine having overall poor muscle strength. Sagittal misalignment can be caused by poor posture while sitting and standing as well as prolonged sitting.
- Conditions
- Thoracic Kyphosis
- Being tested
- Back Extensor Strengthening Exercises, Core Stability Exercises
- Keywords
- Posture, Spinal Alignment, Overall Functional Outcome, Pain, Range of Motion
- Medical subject headings
- Pain
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Back Extensor Strengthening ExercisesOther
Also called Hot Pack (15-20 mins) - Upper back & thoracic spine for relaxation, TENS (10 mins)- Applied to thoracic region for pain relief (Before & after exercises)
- Superman Exercise Sets/Reps: 2 sets × 10-12 reps, hold 5-10 sec
- Prone Arm and Leg Raise Sets/Reps: 2 sets × 10-12 reps, hold 5-10 sec
- Seated Row (Resistance Band) Sets/Reps: 2 sets × 12-15 reps, hold 3-5 sec
- Wall Angels Sets/Reps: 2 sets × 10-12 reps, 3-5 sec per cycle
Core Stability ExercisesOther
Also called Hot Pack (15-20 mins) - Upper back & thoracic spine for relaxation, TENS (10 mins)- Applied to thoracic region for pain relief (Before & after exercises)
- Side Plank Sets/Reps: 3 sets, hold 10-60 sec per side
- Dead Bug Exercise Sets/Reps: 3 sets × 6-15 reps per side
- Bridging Exercise Sets/Reps: 3 sets × 10-20 reps, hold 2-5 sec
- Bird-Dog Exercise Sets/Reps: 3 sets × 8-15 reps per side, hold 2-5 sec
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Back Extensor Strengthening Exercises | Experimental | Usage of modalities like hot pack \& TENS along with certain exercises mentioned in the following:
1. Superman Exercise (Prone position, lift chest off ground, arms extended)
2. Prone Arm and Leg Raise (Prone, lift opposite arm \& leg)
3. Seated Row (Resistance Band) (Pull band towards chest)
4. Wall Angels (Standing against wall, moving arms up/down) Receives: Other: Back Extensor Strengthening Exercises |
| Core Stability Exercises | Experimental | Usage of modalities like hot pack \& TENS along with certain exercises mentioned in the following:
1. Side Plank (Side-lying, lift hips while maintaining straight posture)
2. Dead Bug Exercise (Supine, extend opposite arm \& leg)
3. Bridging Exercise (Supine, lift hips to straight line)
4. Bird-Dog Exercise (Quadruped, extend opposite arm \& leg) Receives: Other: Core Stability Exercises |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Change in Pain Intensity Measured by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)
A 10 cm horizontal line with "No Pain" (0) on the left and "Worst Pain" (10) on the right. Patients mark their pain level on the scale before and after interventions to assess changes. Test-Retest Reliability: The VAS shows high test-retest reliability, especially in literate populations (r = 0.94), indicating stable pain scores over time when used with the same individual. Validity effectively captures the full spectrum of pain intensity, making it a valid tool for assessing the pain experience of thoracic kyphosis patients.
Measured: 12 Weeks
Change in Thoracic Spine Range of Motion (ROM) Measured by Inclinometer
The inclinometer has demonstrated good test-retest reliability, with high correlation (r = 0.90) in measuring range of motion (ROM) over time when used consistently on the same patient.The inclinometer accurately measures thoracic spine mobility and is considered a valid tool for assessing movement restriction or improvement in patients with thoracic kyphosis.
Measured: 12 Weeks
Assessment of Postural Deformity Severity Using the Matthias Test
It is effective in identifying postural deformities and the severity of thoracic kyphosis. The Matthias Test has demonstrated good inter-rater reliability.
Measured: 12 Weeks
Change in Disability Level Measured by Oswestry Disability Index (ODI)
The Oswestry Disability Index (also known as the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire) is an extremely important tool that researchers and disability evaluators use to measure a patient's permanent functional disability.
Measured: 12 Weeks
Change in Functional Disability Measured by Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RDQ)
The Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire is most sensitive for patients with mild to moderate disability due to acute, sub-acute, or chronic low back pain.
Measured: 12 Weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted21 Mar 2025
- Study start15 Apr 2025
- Primary completion11 Aug 2025
- Study completion31 Dec 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Thoracic KyphosisStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Ayesha Sadiq, MSPT (OMPT), Principal investigator, Riphah International University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06888609
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- REC-01003 Zahoor Ahmad
- Status last verified
- Apr 2025
- First submitted
- 20 Feb 2025
- Last updated
- 25 Feb 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 25 Feb 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Comparison of Back Extensor Strengthening Versus Core Stability Exercise in Patients With Thoracic Kyphosis
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06888609
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- REC-01003 Zahoor Ahmad
- Conditions
- Thoracic Kyphosis
- Keywords
- Posture, Spinal Alignment, Overall Functional Outcome, Pain, Range of Motion
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 15 Apr 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 11 Aug 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 31 Dec 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 21 Mar 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
To compare the effects of back extensor strengthening exercises versus core stability exercises on thoracic kyphosis in patients, assessing improvements in posture, spinal alignment, and overall functional outcomes
Detailed description
Kyphosis is the normal forward curvature of our spine and when this curvature becomes excessively increased is referred to as hyper kyphosis or Hunch back. Its normal value is between 20 and 40 degrees. When the thoracic kyphotic angle exceeds 40 degrees, it is referred to as hyper kyphosis. The three main types of kyphosis often seen in individuals are postural, Structural and congenital. Postural kyphosis is caused by high external load on individual spine having overall poor muscle strength. Sagittal misalignment can be caused by poor posture while sitting and standing as well as prolonged sitting.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Back Extensor Strengthening Exercises | Experimental | Other: Back Extensor Strengthening ExercisesUsage of modalities like hot pack \& TENS along with certain exercises mentioned in the following: 1. Superman Exercise (Prone position, lift chest off ground, arms extended) 2. Prone Arm and Leg Raise (Prone, lift opposite arm \& leg) 3. Seated Row (Resistance Band) (Pull band towards chest) 4. Wall Angels (Standing against wall, moving arms up/down) |
| Core Stability Exercises | Experimental | Other: Core Stability ExercisesUsage of modalities like hot pack \& TENS along with certain exercises mentioned in the following: 1. Side Plank (Side-lying, lift hips while maintaining straight posture) 2. Dead Bug Exercise (Supine, extend opposite arm \& leg) 3. Bridging Exercise (Supine, lift hips to straight line) 4. Bird-Dog Exercise (Quadruped, extend opposite arm \& leg) |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 40 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Adults aged 18-40 years with a diagnosis of mild to moderate thoracic kyphosis (Cobb angle between 40° and 60°).
- The presence of back pain or discomfort is attributed to kyphosis.
- Willingness to participate and commit to the study's duration (6 weeks of intervention and follow-up).
- Ability to provide informed consent.
Key exclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Severe thoracic kyphosis (Cobb angle > 60°).
- Other spinal conditions such as scoliosis or spinal fractures.
- Previous spinal surgery or contraindications to physical activity.
- Neurological disorders affecting motor function.
- Pregnancy or severe medical comorbidities that would preclude participation.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Back Extensor Strengthening ExercisesAlso: Hot Pack (15-20 mins) - Upper back & thoracic spine for relaxation, TENS (10 mins)- Applied to thoracic region for pain relief (Before & after exercises)1. Superman Exercise Sets/Reps: 2 sets × 10-12 reps, hold 5-10 sec 2. Prone Arm and Leg Raise Sets/Reps: 2 sets × 10-12 reps, hold 5-10 sec 3. Seated Row (Resistance Band) Sets/Reps: 2 sets × 12-15 reps, hold 3-5 sec 4. Wall Angels Sets/Reps: 2 sets × 10-12 reps, 3-5 sec per cycle | Other | Back Extensor Strengthening Exercises |
| Core Stability ExercisesAlso: Hot Pack (15-20 mins) - Upper back & thoracic spine for relaxation, TENS (10 mins)- Applied to thoracic region for pain relief (Before & after exercises)1. Side Plank Sets/Reps: 3 sets, hold 10-60 sec per side 2. Dead Bug Exercise Sets/Reps: 3 sets × 6-15 reps per side 3. Bridging Exercise Sets/Reps: 3 sets × 10-20 reps, hold 2-5 sec 4. Bird-Dog Exercise Sets/Reps: 3 sets × 8-15 reps per side, hold 2-5 sec | Other | Core Stability Exercises |
Primary outcome
Change in Pain Intensity Measured by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)
Time frame: 12 Weeks
A 10 cm horizontal line with "No Pain" (0) on the left and "Worst Pain" (10) on the right. Patients mark their pain level on the scale before and after interventions to assess changes. Test-Retest Reliability: The VAS shows high test-retest reliability, especially in literate populations (r = 0.94), indicating stable pain scores over time when used with the same individual. Validity effectively captures the full spectrum of pain intensity, making it a valid tool for assessing the pain experience of thoracic kyphosis patients.
Change in Thoracic Spine Range of Motion (ROM) Measured by Inclinometer
Time frame: 12 Weeks
The inclinometer has demonstrated good test-retest reliability, with high correlation (r = 0.90) in measuring range of motion (ROM) over time when used consistently on the same patient.The inclinometer accurately measures thoracic spine mobility and is considered a valid tool for assessing movement restriction or improvement in patients with thoracic kyphosis.
Assessment of Postural Deformity Severity Using the Matthias Test
Time frame: 12 Weeks
It is effective in identifying postural deformities and the severity of thoracic kyphosis. The Matthias Test has demonstrated good inter-rater reliability.
Change in Disability Level Measured by Oswestry Disability Index (ODI)
Time frame: 12 Weeks
The Oswestry Disability Index (also known as the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire) is an extremely important tool that researchers and disability evaluators use to measure a patient's permanent functional disability.
Change in Functional Disability Measured by Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RDQ)
Time frame: 12 Weeks
The Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire is most sensitive for patients with mild to moderate disability due to acute, sub-acute, or chronic low back pain.
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 25 Feb 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Ayesha Sadiq, MSPT (OMPT) principal investigator
Riphah International University
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Back Extensor Strengthening Exercises and Core Stability Exercises in people with Thoracic Kyphosis, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 25 Feb 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Change in Pain Intensity Measured by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) (time frame: 12 Weeks). The study lists 5 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 25 Feb 2026.