EFFECTS OF STRAIN COUNTER STRAIN TECHNIQUE IN TREATMENT OF CHRONIC MECHANICAL LOW BACK PAIN: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRAIL

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic mechanical low back pain is generally nociceptive in nature. Strain counter strain technique is a passive technique used to relieve musculoskeletal pain by relaxing shortened tissues. This study was designed to determine the effects of strain counter strain in terms of relieving pain, increasing ROM, MMT and disability in the treatment of chronic low back pain.

Material & Methods: A randomized, single-blinded, parallel controlled trial was conducted. A total of 40 patients met the inclusion criteria and were randomly equally divided into 2 groups. Due to the lack of one patient’s follow-up in the experimental group, data of 39 patients were analysed. A structured questionnaire was used and the data was analysed at baseline and after 8 sessions by using IBM SPSS 21. Outcomes were measured by inclinometer, manual muscle testing, Modified Oswestry Disability Index and NPRS.

Results: Intragroup comparison of pre to post value of NPRS, ROM, MMT & MODI showed significant p-value (0.000***) for both groups. Intergroup comparison of baseline to end value showed significant improvement in Lumbar Flexion (p value=0.001) and left side bending (p value=0.003) while lumbar extension, right side bending, MMT of trunk flexors, trunk extensors and NPRS showed non-significant p-value of 0.088, 0.066, 0.484, 0.753 and 0.177 respectively. MODI Intergroup comparison showed significant improvement on post-intervention scores (p value=.000***).

Conclusion: Strain counter strain has positive effects by increasing range of motion and improving functional status in patients with chronic low back pain.