Muscle Energy Technique Versus Dry Needling of Active Trigger Points in Quadratus Lumborum: A Comparative Study on Functional Disability in Low Back Pain
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v3i2.72Keywords:
Lower back pain, dry needling, muscle energy techniques, quadratus lumborum, trigger points, functional disability, physiotherapyAbstract
Background: Lower back pain (LBP) is a prevalent condition that significantly impacts the quality of life and mobility of individuals. Active trigger points in the quadratus lumborum muscle are a common source of LBP, often requiring effective physiotherapeutic interventions. Dry needling (DN) and Muscle Energy Techniques (METs) are two commonly used treatments, though their comparative efficacy has not been extensively studied.
Objective: The study aimed to compare the effects of DN and METs on the functional disability of patients with active quadratus lumborum trigger points contributing to lower back pain.
Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 24 patients were equally divided into two groups to receive either DN or METs over a three-week period, with sessions conducted twice weekly. The Modified Oswestry Disability Index (MODI) was employed to measure functional disability at baseline, after the first, third, and sixth sessions. Repeated measures ANOVA was utilized for intra-group and inter-group comparisons.
Results: Both interventions showed a decrease in MODI scores, indicating an improvement in functional disability. However, DN was significantly more effective than METs in reducing disability scores (p < 0.05). Notably, no significant difference was found between the post-treatment NPRS and PPT scores within or between the groups.
Conclusion: DN appears to be a more effective intervention than METs for reducing functional disability associated with active trigger points in the quadratus lumborum among LBP patients. Despite the efficacy of both treatments, DN may be prioritized as a preferred modality in clinical settings.
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Copyright (c) 2023 Hamna Zahid, Komal Ahmed , Mariam Ali, Ujala Bashir , Amena Batool
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