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Completed

NCT Number: NCT06888609

Comparing Back Extensor and Core Stability Training in 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

Completed

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Key information

Conditions

Thoracic Kyphosis Neurologic Manifestations Pain Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms Signs and Symptoms

Age range

18 year–40 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

DHQ Timergara & Batkhela

Malakand, KPK, 18300, Pakistan

About this study

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.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • 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.

Exclusion criteria

  • 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.

Treatment and study plan

Back Extensor Strengthening Exercises

Other
  • 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

Other names: Hot Pack (15-20 mins) - Upper back & thoracic spine for relaxation, TENS (10 mins)- Applied to thoracic region for pain relief (Before & after exercises)

Core Stability Exercises

Other
  • 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

Other names: Hot Pack (15-20 mins) - Upper back & thoracic spine for relaxation, TENS (10 mins)- Applied to thoracic region for pain relief (Before & after exercises)

Primary outcomes

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Riphah International University

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Comparison of Back Extensor Strengthening Versus Core Stability Exercise in Patients With Thoracic Kyphosis

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2025
First posted
Mar 21, 2025
Registry last updated
Feb 25, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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