Muscle TightnessNCT06944769
Effects Of Posterior Oblique Sling Strengthening on Temporo-Spatial Gait Parameters in Young Adults
A study testing Group A myofascial technique and Group B posterior sling exercises in people with Muscle Tightness, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
The aim of this study is to determine the effects of posterior oblique sling strengthening on gait parameters (speed, stride length, and cadence), gluteus maximus strength, latissimus dorsi flexibility, and trunk rotation in young adults. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 30 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Muscle Tightness
- What is being tested?
- Group A myofascial technique and Group B posterior sling exercises
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 46 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 1 Apr 2025to 10 Feb 2026
- 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 30 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Age 18-30 years.
- Both Genders: Male and Female.
- Participants either unilateral or bilateral POS tightness.
- Participants had latissimus dorsi tightness indicates:
- Modified rotation test (10-degree rotation difference than contralateral side)
- Participants had gluteal maximus weakness indicates:
- Prone hip extension test (unable to lift leg more than 15 degrees or do compensatory mechanism)
Who cannot join
- Participants who have pectoralis minor tightness indicates:
- Pectoralis Minor Length Test (assessing the ability to flatten the posterior shoulder with posterior force applied in a supine position distance greater than 2.6 cm (1 inch) by inches tape indicate Pectoralis Minor tightness).
- Diagnosed Lumbar spondylosis.
- Diagnosed disc prolapse.
- Diagnosed neurological deficits.
- Diagnosed cerebellar or vestibular lesions impacting balance and gait.
Show all 9Show fewer
- The presence of knee, ankle, or hip pathologies that impair lower limb function.
- Spine surgery within the past 12 months
- Unable to understand and follow the commands
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Pakistan1 site
Rawal Institute of Rehabilitation & Health Sciences (RIRH) & Rawal General & Dental Hospital. (RG&DH)
Islamabad, Capital, 45550
About this study
The aim of this study is to determine the effects of posterior oblique sling strengthening on gait parameters (speed, stride length, and cadence), gluteus maximus strength, latissimus dorsi flexibility, and trunk rotation in young adults. A randomized clinical trial will be conducted at Riphah Internal university, Rawal General \& Dental Hospital and Rawal Institute of Rehabilitation \& Health Sciences. Recruiting 48 participants aged 18-30 years with unilateral or bilateral posterior oblique sling tightness. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups through the sealed envelope method. The intervention will be performed four times per week for three weeks, followed by a home-based program from weeks 4 to 6. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-1st session, weekly during intervention, and at week 6. Tools used include Inclinometer (for lumbar range of motion), Goniometer (to assess latissimus dorsi length), Waistband Pedometer (to measure gait parameters such as cadence, walking speed, and stride length), Hand-held Dynamometer (to assess gluteus maximus strength), Inches Tape (for Pectoralis Minor Length Test to evaluate muscle flexibility and scapular positioning) and demographic measures..
Read the detailed description
The posterior oblique sling, consisting of the latissimus dorsi, gluteus maximus, and thoracolumbar fascia, is vital for lumbar-pelvic stability and efficient force transmission during movement. The gluteus maximus plays a key role in transferring force from the lower limb to the pelvis, stabilizing the lumbar region. Tightness in the POS can restrict hip extension by limiting the flexibility of the gluteus maximus and hamstrings, affecting gait efficiency and coordination. Increased gait speed improves arm swing, coordination, and trunk rotation, while limited arm swing reduces gait efficiency. Prolonged sitting in younger adults (ages 20-30) can tighten the POS, weakening the posterior chain and raising back pain risk. Targeted stability exercises are key to prevention.
Disruptions in the posterior oblique sling, such as gluteus maximus weakness or thoracolumbar fascia tightness, can lead to compensatory latissimus dorsi overactivation, reduced lumbar mobility, and altered scapular motion, worsening chronic low back pain. Enhanced arm swing improves coordination, gait speed, and stride length, highlighting upper body influence on lower body movement.
Intervention for posterior oblique sling tightness focuses on improving mobility and lumbar-pelvic control through a combination of techniques. Muscle Energy Techniques are applied to the latissimus dorsi and gluteus maximus to release tension and enhance flexibility. Dynamic stretching and myofascial release are incorporated to further improve muscle mobility and fascia flexibility. Functional exercises, such as resisted trunk rotation, engage the POS to enhance stability and coordination. Additionally, exercises like the abdominal drawing-in maneuver combined with prone hip extension target core strength and lumbar control, while the Prone Hip Extension with 125° of left shoulder abduction supports improved trunk and gait stability, addressing the interconnectedness of the posterior chain.
Collectively, these findings underscore the importance of addressing muscle imbalances in the POS through targeted strengthening exercises and gait training, which are essential for improving dynamic stability, alleviating CLBP symptoms, and restoring functional movement. Sedentary behaviors in young adults contribute significantly to posterior oblique sling (POS) dysfunction, manifesting as tightness and weakness in key muscle groups, which adversely affects gait mechanics, musculoskeletal health, and overall quality of life. The POS, comprising the gluteus maximus, latissimus dorsi, and thoracolumbar fascia, plays a critical role in trunk rotation, dynamic stability, and efficient gait patterns. Despite its importance, there is a noticeable gap in specialized interventions targeting POS dysfunction, leaving many young adults at risk of poor mobility, musculoskeletal injuries, and long-term health complications
- Conditions
- Muscle Tightness
- Being tested
- Group A myofascial technique, Group B posterior sling exercises
- Keywords
- Posterior Oblique Sling, Spatio-Temporal Analysis, METs, Latissimus dorsi, Gluteal Maximus, Waist-Band pedometer, Hand-held dynamometer
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Group A myofascial techniqueOther
Group A with MET (latissimus dorsi), myofascial release (thoracolumbar fascia) and posterior oblique sling strengthening it will be a six-week protocol, with sessions conducted five times a week for 30-40 minutes, focusing on posterior oblique sling activation. Week 1: Myofascial release (thoracolumbar fascia, 60-90 sec), MET (latissimus dorsi, 7-10 sec isometric + 30-sec stretch, 5 reps), glute max strengthening (prone hip extensions, 10-sec holds ×5; bilateral bridges, 5-sec holds ×5).
Week 2: Prone hip extension (3-kg resistance), arm extension (1-kg dumbbell, 5-sec holds ×5), bird-dog (5-sec holds ×10, 1 set).
Weeks 3-4: Prone hip extensions (5-sec holds ×10), single-leg bridges (5-sec holds ×10), twice daily.
Weeks 5-6: Increased intensity to 10-sec holds ×10 reps
Group B posterior sling exercisesOther
A six-week conservative protocol, was conducted five times weekly for 30-40 minutes, focuses on core stability exercises. Week 1 includes static stretching of the latissimus dorsi (30-second hold, 3 reps) and prone hip extensions with knee flexed at 90° (5-second hold, 10 reps). By Week 2, bird-dog exercises are introduced (5-second hold, 10 reps per side). In Weeks 3-6, these exercises are maintained to provide a stable baseline for comparison with Group A's more intensive protocol. The latissimus dorsi stretch is performed 2-3 times daily for improved flexibility.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Group A Myofascial technique | Active comparator | Group A follows a six-week, five-day-per-week protocol (30-40 min) targeting posterior oblique sling activation. Receives: Other: Group A myofascial technique |
| group B (posterior oblique sling strengthening protocol) | Experimental | A six-week conservative protocol, conducted five times per week for 30-40 minutes, focusing on core stability exercises. Receives: Other: Group B posterior sling exercises |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Hand-held dynamometer for gluteal maximus strength:
The hand-held dynamometer is used to assess gluteus maximus strength by measuring the force exerted during hip extension. The patient is positioned in the prone position with the knee flexed at 90°, and the dynamometer is placed just above the knee on the posterior side of the leg. The patient then extends the hip against the resistance provided by the dynamometer, with measurements recorded in kilograms or pounds. The test is repeated 2-3 times to ensure consistency, with adequate rest between repetitions.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Waist band Pedometer:
The waistband pedometer is used to measure gait parameters the pedometer records the total steps taken over a set time, which is divided by time to calculate steps per minute.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Secondary outcomes (8)
Goniometer ( Latissimus Dorsi length)
To assess Latissimus Dorsi length in the supine position, the patient lies with their knees bent and feet flat on the table to maintain a neutral lumbar spine. The clinician stabilizes the pelvis to prevent compensatory movement while the patient extends both arms overhead to assess shoulder flexion. A goniometer is used to measure the angle of shoulder flexion, with the stationary arm aligned with the lateral aspect of the trunk and the moving arm aligned with the humerus. The test is performed on both sides, and the maximum range of shoulder flexion is recorded.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inches Tape (for Pectoralis Minor length Test)
The Pectoralis Minor Length Test is a clinical assessment used to evaluate the length and flexibility of the pectoralis minor muscle, which plays a crucial role in scapular positioning and shoulder function. In this test, the patient lies supine on a flat surface, and a posterior force is applied to the coracoid process to assess the ability of the pectoralis minor to allow for full shoulder extension. The patient's arm is positioned at 90° shoulder abduction and external rotation to evaluate the scapula's ability to flatten against the surface. The distance from the acromion to the table is measured using an inches tape to assess the flexibility of the pectoralis minor.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar flexion
The lumbar range of motion was measured using an inclinometer placed at the T12 and S1 vertebrae.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar extension
The lumbar range of motion was measured using an inclinometer placed at the T12 and S1 vertebrae.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar right lateral flexion
The lumbar range of motion was measured using an inclinometer placed at the T12 and S1 vertebrae, both with and without radiologic control. The procedure involved assessing lumbar right lateral flexion with interrater reliability evaluated by a physiotherapist.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar left lateral flexion
The lumbar range of motion was measured using an inclinometer placed at the T12 and S1 vertebrae.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar right rotation
The lumbar range of motion was measured using an inclinometer placed at the T12 and S1 vertebrae.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar left rotation
The lumbar range of motion was measured using an inclinometer placed at the T12 and S1 vertebrae.
Measured: Baseline to 6 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted25 Apr 2025
- Study start1 Apr 2025
- Primary completion1 Jan 2026
- Study completion10 Feb 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Muscle TightnessStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Riphah International UniversityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- 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
- Double blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 46 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Aisha Razzaq, PHD*, Principal investigator, Riphah International University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06944769
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- RiphahIU Ameera Aamar
- Status last verified
- Sep 2026
- First submitted
- 20 Feb 2025
- Last updated
- 10 Sep 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- 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 10 Sep 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects Of Posterior Oblique Sling Strengthening on Temporo-Spatial Gait Parameters in Young Adults
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06944769
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- RiphahIU Ameera Aamar
- Conditions
- Muscle Tightness
- Keywords
- Posterior Oblique Sling, Spatio-Temporal Analysis, METs, Latissimus dorsi, Gluteal Maximus, Waist-Band pedometer, Hand-held dynamometer
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 46 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Apr 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 1 Jan 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 10 Feb 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 25 Apr 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.
The aim of this study is to determine the effects of posterior oblique sling strengthening on gait parameters (speed, stride length, and cadence), gluteus maximus strength, latissimus dorsi flexibility, and trunk rotation in young adults. A randomized clinical trial will be conducted at Riphah Internal university, Rawal General \& Dental Hospital and Rawal Institute of Rehabilitation \& Health Sciences. Recruiting 48 participants aged 18-30 years with unilateral or bilateral posterior oblique sling tightness. Participants will be randomly assigned into two groups through the sealed envelope method. The intervention will be performed four times per week for three weeks, followed by a home-based program from weeks 4 to 6. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, post-1st session, weekly during intervention, and at week 6. Tools used include Inclinometer (for lumbar range of motion), Goniometer (to assess latissimus dorsi length), Waistband Pedometer (to measure gait parameters such as cadence, walking speed, and stride length), Hand-held Dynamometer (to assess gluteus maximus strength), Inches Tape (for Pectoralis Minor Length Test to evaluate muscle flexibility and scapular positioning) and demographic measures..
Detailed description
The posterior oblique sling, consisting of the latissimus dorsi, gluteus maximus, and thoracolumbar fascia, is vital for lumbar-pelvic stability and efficient force transmission during movement. The gluteus maximus plays a key role in transferring force from the lower limb to the pelvis, stabilizing the lumbar region. Tightness in the POS can restrict hip extension by limiting the flexibility of the gluteus maximus and hamstrings, affecting gait efficiency and coordination. Increased gait speed improves arm swing, coordination, and trunk rotation, while limited arm swing reduces gait efficiency. Prolonged sitting in younger adults (ages 20-30) can tighten the POS, weakening the posterior chain and raising back pain risk. Targeted stability exercises are key to prevention.
Disruptions in the posterior oblique sling, such as gluteus maximus weakness or thoracolumbar fascia tightness, can lead to compensatory latissimus dorsi overactivation, reduced lumbar mobility, and altered scapular motion, worsening chronic low back pain. Enhanced arm swing improves coordination, gait speed, and stride length, highlighting upper body influence on lower body movement.
Intervention for posterior oblique sling tightness focuses on improving mobility and lumbar-pelvic control through a combination of techniques. Muscle Energy Techniques are applied to the latissimus dorsi and gluteus maximus to release tension and enhance flexibility. Dynamic stretching and myofascial release are incorporated to further improve muscle mobility and fascia flexibility. Functional exercises, such as resisted trunk rotation, engage the POS to enhance stability and coordination. Additionally, exercises like the abdominal drawing-in maneuver combined with prone hip extension target core strength and lumbar control, while the Prone Hip Extension with 125° of left shoulder abduction supports improved trunk and gait stability, addressing the interconnectedness of the posterior chain.
Collectively, these findings underscore the importance of addressing muscle imbalances in the POS through targeted strengthening exercises and gait training, which are essential for improving dynamic stability, alleviating CLBP symptoms, and restoring functional movement. Sedentary behaviors in young adults contribute significantly to posterior oblique sling (POS) dysfunction, manifesting as tightness and weakness in key muscle groups, which adversely affects gait mechanics, musculoskeletal health, and overall quality of life. The POS, comprising the gluteus maximus, latissimus dorsi, and thoracolumbar fascia, plays a critical role in trunk rotation, dynamic stability, and efficient gait patterns. Despite its importance, there is a noticeable gap in specialized interventions targeting POS dysfunction, leaving many young adults at risk of poor mobility, musculoskeletal injuries, and long-term health complications
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind (participant, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Group A Myofascial technique | Active comparator | Other: Group A myofascial techniqueGroup A follows a six-week, five-day-per-week protocol (30-40 min) targeting posterior oblique sling activation. |
| group B (posterior oblique sling strengthening protocol) | Experimental | Other: Group B posterior sling exercisesA six-week conservative protocol, conducted five times per week for 30-40 minutes, focusing on core stability exercises. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 30 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Age 18-30 years.
- Both Genders: Male and Female.
- Participants either unilateral or bilateral POS tightness.
- Participants had latissimus dorsi tightness indicates:
- Modified rotation test (10-degree rotation difference than contralateral side)
Key exclusion criteria (9 listed)
- Participants who have pectoralis minor tightness indicates:
- Pectoralis Minor Length Test (assessing the ability to flatten the posterior shoulder with posterior force applied in a supine position distance greater than 2.6 cm (1 inch) by inches tape indicate Pectoralis Minor tightness).
- Diagnosed Lumbar spondylosis.
- Diagnosed disc prolapse.
- Diagnosed neurological deficits.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Group A myofascial techniqueGroup A with MET (latissimus dorsi), myofascial release (thoracolumbar fascia) and posterior oblique sling strengthening it will be a six-week protocol, with sessions conducted five times a week for 30-40 minutes, focusing on posterior oblique sling activation. Week 1: Myofascial release (thoracolumbar fascia, 60-90 sec), MET (latissimus dorsi, 7-10 sec isometric + 30-sec stretch, 5 reps), glute max strengthening (prone hip extensions, 10-sec holds ×5; bilateral bridges, 5-sec holds ×5). Week 2: Prone hip extension (3-kg resistance), arm extension (1-kg dumbbell, 5-sec holds ×5), bird-dog (5-sec holds ×10, 1 set). Weeks 3-4: Prone hip extensions (5-sec holds ×10), single-leg bridges (5-sec holds ×10), twice daily. Weeks 5-6: Increased intensity to 10-sec holds ×10 reps | Other | Group A Myofascial technique |
| Group B posterior sling exercisesA six-week conservative protocol, was conducted five times weekly for 30-40 minutes, focuses on core stability exercises. Week 1 includes static stretching of the latissimus dorsi (30-second hold, 3 reps) and prone hip extensions with knee flexed at 90° (5-second hold, 10 reps). By Week 2, bird-dog exercises are introduced (5-second hold, 10 reps per side). In Weeks 3-6, these exercises are maintained to provide a stable baseline for comparison with Group A's more intensive protocol. The latissimus dorsi stretch is performed 2-3 times daily for improved flexibility. | Other | group B (posterior oblique sling strengthening protocol) |
Primary outcome
Hand-held dynamometer for gluteal maximus strength:
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
The hand-held dynamometer is used to assess gluteus maximus strength by measuring the force exerted during hip extension. The patient is positioned in the prone position with the knee flexed at 90°, and the dynamometer is placed just above the knee on the posterior side of the leg. The patient then extends the hip against the resistance provided by the dynamometer, with measurements recorded in kilograms or pounds. The test is repeated 2-3 times to ensure consistency, with adequate rest between repetitions.
Waist band Pedometer:
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
The waistband pedometer is used to measure gait parameters the pedometer records the total steps taken over a set time, which is divided by time to calculate steps per minute.
8 secondary outcomes
Goniometer ( Latissimus Dorsi length)
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inches Tape (for Pectoralis Minor length Test)
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar flexion
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar extension
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar right lateral flexion
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar left lateral flexion
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar right rotation
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
Inclinometer for lumbar left rotation
Time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks
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 10 Sep 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.
Aisha Razzaq, PHD* 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 Group A myofascial technique and Group B posterior sling exercises in people with Muscle Tightness, 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 7 inclusion and 9 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 10 Sep 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?
Hand-held dynamometer for gluteal maximus strength: (time frame: Baseline to 6 weeks). The study lists 2 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 10 Sep 2026.