Non Specific Chronic Low Back PainNCT07438470
Combined Effects of Mckenzie and Motor Control Exercises in Chronic Non-specific Low Back Pain
A study testing McKenzie Extension Exercises in people with Non Specific Chronic Low Back Pain, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
This study was conducted to compare the results of McKenzie extension exercises and motor control exercises, with a combined exercise program on pain intensity, core muscle endurance and range of motion and quality of life in those suffering from persistent, non-specific low back pain. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 45 to 70 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Non Specific Chronic Low Back Pain
- What is being tested?
- McKenzie Extension Exercises
- Type of treatment
- Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 54 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 13 Jan 2025to 31 Oct 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 45 to 70 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Both male and female
- Age between 45-70
- History of LBP of 3 months or greater with pain intensity greater than 6 on NPRS scale
- Sorensen test positive
Who cannot join
- Vertebral fractures
- Previous Spinal surgery and Infections should be excluded.
- Osteoporosis, Ankylosing Spondylosis, Inflammatory and Rheumatological diseases.
- Pregnancy, malignancy, Trauma, Disc Herniation
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Combined Effects of Mckenzie and Motor Control Exercises on Pain, Range of Motion, Muscle Endurance and Disability in Chronic Non-specific Low Back Pain
This study was conducted to compare the results of McKenzie extension exercises and motor control exercises, with a combined exercise program on pain intensity, core muscle endurance and range of motion and quality of life in those suffering from persistent, non-specific low back pain.
- Conditions
- Non Specific Chronic Low Back Pain
- Being tested
- McKenzie Extension Exercises, Motor Control Exercises, Combined McKenzie and Motor Control Exercises
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
McKenzie Extension ExercisesBehavioural
Also called McKenzie Method
Participants received a McKenzie-based extension exercise program consisting of repeated lumbar extension movements performed in lying and standing positions. The exercises were prescribed and supervised by a physical therapist according to standardized McKenzie principles. The intervention focused on symptom centralization, pain reduction, and improvement in lumbar range of motion and functional ability in individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain.
Motor Control ExercisesBehavioural
Also called Lumbar Stabilization Exercises
Participants received a motor control exercise program aimed at improving activation, coordination, and endurance of deep trunk muscles, including the transversus abdominis and multifidus. Exercises were supervised by a physical therapist and progressed according to patient tolerance. The intervention focused on enhancing spinal stability, reducing pain, and improving functional performance.
Combined McKenzie and Motor Control ExercisesBehavioural
Also called Combined Exercise Program
Participants received a combined exercise program consisting of McKenzie extension exercises and motor control exercises. The intervention integrated repeated lumbar extension movements with trunk stabilization and motor control training. All exercises were supervised by a physical therapist and aimed to improve pain intensity, lumbar range of motion, muscle endurance, and functional disability.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Mckenzie Extension Exercise | Active comparator | Participants in this arm received a McKenzie-based extension exercise program focusing on repeated lumbar extension movements. The exercises were performed under the supervision of a physical therapist according to standardized McKenzie principles. The program was designed to reduce pain, improve lumbar range of motion, and decrease functional disability in individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain. Receives: Behavioral: McKenzie Extension Exercises |
| Motor Control Exercise Program | Active comparator | Participants in this arm received a motor control exercise program designed to improve activation, coordination, and endurance of deep trunk muscles, including the transversus abdominis and multifidus. The exercises were supervised by a physical therapist and were progressed according to patient tolerance. The intervention aimed to improve spinal stability, reduce pain, and enhance functional ability. Receives: Behavioral: Motor Control Exercises |
| Combined McKenzie and Motor Control Exercise Program | Active comparator | Participants in this arm received a combined intervention consisting of McKenzie extension exercises and motor control exercises. The program integrated repeated lumbar extension movements with trunk stabilization and motor control training. The intervention was supervised by a physical therapist and aimed to improve pain intensity, lumbar range of motion, muscle endurance, and functional disability. Receives: Behavioral: Combined McKenzie and Motor Control Exercises |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Pain Intensity (Numeric Pain Rating Scale)
Pain intensity was assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), an 11-point scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst imaginable pain). Participants reported their average pain intensity, with higher scores indicating greater pain severity.
Measured: From enrollment till the end of treatment at 6 weeks
Trunk Muscle Endurance (Biering-Sorensen Test)
Trunk extensor muscle endurance was measured using the Biering-Sorensen test. Participants maintained the horizontal prone position with the upper body unsupported for as long as possible, and the duration was recorded in seconds as a measure of trunk muscle endurance.
Measured: From enrollment till the end of treatment at 6 weeks
Lumbar Range of Motion
Lumbar range of motion was assessed using a goniometer to measure flexion and extension movements of the lumbar spine. Measurements were recorded in degrees, with higher values indicating greater spinal mobility.
Measured: From enrollment till the end of treatment at 6 weeks
Functional Disability (Oswestry Disability Index)
Functional disability was evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), a validated self-reported questionnaire assessing disability related to low back pain. Scores were calculated as percentages, with higher scores indicating greater disability.
Measured: From enrollment till the end of treatment at 6 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted27 Feb 2026
- Study start13 Jan 2025
- Primary completion31 May 2025
- Study completion31 Oct 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (7)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Non Specific Chronic Low Back PainStudies 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
- 54 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Humera Mubashar, MsOMPT, Principal investigator, Riphah International University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07438470
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- REC/RCR & AHS/24/01112
- Status last verified
- Feb 2026
- First submitted
- 23 Feb 2026
- Last updated
- 27 Feb 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Publications
Elabd OM, Oakley PA, Elabd AM. Prediction of Back Disability Using Clinical, Functional, and Biomechanical Variables in Adults with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain. J Clin Med. 2024 Jul 8;13(13):3980. doi: 10.3390/jcm13133980.
PubMed 38999544Anggiat L, Hon WH, Sokran SN, Mohammad NM. The changes of functional disability in non-specific low back pain among university population after proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and mckenzie method. International Journal of Medical and Exercise Science. 2020;6(1):656-67.
Leivas EG, Correa LA, Nogueira LAC. The relationship between low back pain and the basic lumbar posture at work: a retrospective cross-sectional study. Int Arch Occup Environ Health. 2022 Jan;95(1):25-33. doi: 10.1007/s00420-021-01778-9. Epub 2021 Oct 9.
PubMed 34626219Vinodhini R, Purushothaman VK, Subramaniam A, Vasanthi RK. Effectiveness of global posture re-education and McKenzie technique in non-specific low back pain. INTI journal. 2022 Sep 30;2022.
Elmahdy HH, Zaky NA, Elalfy AT, Aly MG. Mckenzie versus William's exercise for non-specific low back pain in adolescents: a comparative study. The Egyptian Journal of Hospital Medicine. 2022 Oct 1;89(1):4747-53.
Singh S, Ranjan R, Sandhya K. Effects of McKenzie Exercise and other Treatment Techniques in Reducing Pain & Disability in Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain. Indian Journal of Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy. 2024 Jul 1;18(3).
Li Y, Zhao Q, Zhang X, E Y, Su Y. The impact of core training combined with breathing exercises on individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain. Front Public Health. 2025 Feb 21;13:1518612. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1518612. eCollection 2025.
PubMed 40061473
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 27 Feb 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Combined Effects of Mckenzie and Motor Control Exercises on Pain, Range of Motion, Muscle Endurance and Disability in Chronic Non-specific Low Back Pain
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07438470
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- REC/RCR & AHS/24/01112
- Conditions
- Non Specific Chronic Low Back Pain
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 54 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 13 Jan 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 31 May 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 31 Oct 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 27 Feb 2026 (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.
This study was conducted to compare the results of McKenzie extension exercises and motor control exercises, with a combined exercise program on pain intensity, core muscle endurance and range of motion and quality of life in those suffering from persistent, non-specific low back pain.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind (participant, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 3
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Mckenzie Extension Exercise | Active comparator | Behavioral: McKenzie Extension ExercisesParticipants in this arm received a McKenzie-based extension exercise program focusing on repeated lumbar extension movements. The exercises were performed under the supervision of a physical therapist according to standardized McKenzie principles. The program was designed to reduce pain, improve lumbar range of motion, and decrease functional disability in individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain. |
| Motor Control Exercise Program | Active comparator | Behavioral: Motor Control ExercisesParticipants in this arm received a motor control exercise program designed to improve activation, coordination, and endurance of deep trunk muscles, including the transversus abdominis and multifidus. The exercises were supervised by a physical therapist and were progressed according to patient tolerance. The intervention aimed to improve spinal stability, reduce pain, and enhance functional ability. |
| Combined McKenzie and Motor Control Exercise Program | Active comparator | Behavioral: Combined McKenzie and Motor Control ExercisesParticipants in this arm received a combined intervention consisting of McKenzie extension exercises and motor control exercises. The program integrated repeated lumbar extension movements with trunk stabilization and motor control training. The intervention was supervised by a physical therapist and aimed to improve pain intensity, lumbar range of motion, muscle endurance, and functional disability. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 45 to 70 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Both male and female
- Age between 45-70
- History of LBP of 3 months or greater with pain intensity greater than 6 on NPRS scale
- Sorensen test positive
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Vertebral fractures
- Previous Spinal surgery and Infections should be excluded.
- Osteoporosis, Ankylosing Spondylosis, Inflammatory and Rheumatological diseases.
- Pregnancy, malignancy, Trauma, Disc Herniation
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 |
|---|---|---|
| McKenzie Extension ExercisesAlso: McKenzie MethodParticipants received a McKenzie-based extension exercise program consisting of repeated lumbar extension movements performed in lying and standing positions. The exercises were prescribed and supervised by a physical therapist according to standardized McKenzie principles. The intervention focused on symptom centralization, pain reduction, and improvement in lumbar range of motion and functional ability in individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain. | Behavioural | Mckenzie Extension Exercise |
| Motor Control ExercisesAlso: Lumbar Stabilization ExercisesParticipants received a motor control exercise program aimed at improving activation, coordination, and endurance of deep trunk muscles, including the transversus abdominis and multifidus. Exercises were supervised by a physical therapist and progressed according to patient tolerance. The intervention focused on enhancing spinal stability, reducing pain, and improving functional performance. | Behavioural | Motor Control Exercise Program |
| Combined McKenzie and Motor Control ExercisesAlso: Combined Exercise ProgramParticipants received a combined exercise program consisting of McKenzie extension exercises and motor control exercises. The intervention integrated repeated lumbar extension movements with trunk stabilization and motor control training. All exercises were supervised by a physical therapist and aimed to improve pain intensity, lumbar range of motion, muscle endurance, and functional disability. | Behavioural | Combined McKenzie and Motor Control Exercise Program |
Primary outcome
Pain Intensity (Numeric Pain Rating Scale)
Time frame: From enrollment till the end of treatment at 6 weeks
Pain intensity was assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), an 11-point scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst imaginable pain). Participants reported their average pain intensity, with higher scores indicating greater pain severity.
Trunk Muscle Endurance (Biering-Sorensen Test)
Time frame: From enrollment till the end of treatment at 6 weeks
Trunk extensor muscle endurance was measured using the Biering-Sorensen test. Participants maintained the horizontal prone position with the upper body unsupported for as long as possible, and the duration was recorded in seconds as a measure of trunk muscle endurance.
Lumbar Range of Motion
Time frame: From enrollment till the end of treatment at 6 weeks
Lumbar range of motion was assessed using a goniometer to measure flexion and extension movements of the lumbar spine. Measurements were recorded in degrees, with higher values indicating greater spinal mobility.
Functional Disability (Oswestry Disability Index)
Time frame: From enrollment till the end of treatment at 6 weeks
Functional disability was evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), a validated self-reported questionnaire assessing disability related to low back pain. Scores were calculated as percentages, with higher scores indicating greater disability.
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 27 Feb 2026.
- Background: PubMed 38999544Elabd OM, Oakley PA, Elabd AM. Prediction of Back Disability Using Clinical, Functional, and Biomechanical Variables in Adults with Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain. J Clin Med. 2024 Jul 8;13(13):3980. doi: 10.3390/jcm13133980.
- BackgroundAnggiat L, Hon WH, Sokran SN, Mohammad NM. The changes of functional disability in non-specific low back pain among university population after proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and mckenzie method. International Journal of Medical and Exercise Science. 2020;6(1):656-67.
- Background: PubMed 34626219Leivas EG, Correa LA, Nogueira LAC. The relationship between low back pain and the basic lumbar posture at work: a retrospective cross-sectional study. Int Arch Occup Environ Health. 2022 Jan;95(1):25-33. doi: 10.1007/s00420-021-01778-9. Epub 2021 Oct 9.
- BackgroundVinodhini R, Purushothaman VK, Subramaniam A, Vasanthi RK. Effectiveness of global posture re-education and McKenzie technique in non-specific low back pain. INTI journal. 2022 Sep 30;2022.
- BackgroundElmahdy HH, Zaky NA, Elalfy AT, Aly MG. Mckenzie versus William's exercise for non-specific low back pain in adolescents: a comparative study. The Egyptian Journal of Hospital Medicine. 2022 Oct 1;89(1):4747-53.
- BackgroundSingh S, Ranjan R, Sandhya K. Effects of McKenzie Exercise and other Treatment Techniques in Reducing Pain & Disability in Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain. Indian Journal of Physiotherapy & Occupational Therapy. 2024 Jul 1;18(3).
- Background: PubMed 40061473Li Y, Zhao Q, Zhang X, E Y, Su Y. The impact of core training combined with breathing exercises on individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain. Front Public Health. 2025 Feb 21;13:1518612. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1518612. eCollection 2025.
- 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.
Humera Mubashar, MsOMPT 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 McKenzie Extension Exercises in people with Non Specific Chronic Low Back Pain, 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 4 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 27 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?
Pain Intensity (Numeric Pain Rating Scale) (time frame: From enrollment till the end of treatment at 6 weeks). The study lists 4 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07438470, which also lists 7 linked publications.
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 27 Feb 2026.