Comparison of the Effectiveness of Myofascial Release Technique and Pilates Exercises in Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain

Rationale Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) is associated with structural changes in the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) and atrophy of the multifidus muscle. While Clinical Pilates enhances core stability, it may not adequately address myofascial densification. This study evaluates whether adding Myofascial Release Technique (MRT) to a Pilates program provides superior improvements in tissue morphology (TLF and multifidus thickness) and clinical outcomes compared to Pilates alone.

Intervention Protocol

A 6-week supervised program (2 sessions/week) will be conducted:

Experimental Group: 20 minutes of manual MRT applied to the thoracolumbar region followed by a standardized Clinical Pilates session focusing on lumbopelvic stabilization.

Control Group: Clinical Pilates program only (Core stabilization exercises: pelvic curls, bird-dog, planks).

Ultrasonographic Assessment

High-resolution musculoskeletal ultrasound will be used for objective analysis at the L3, L4, and L5 vertebral levels (2 cm lateral to the spinous processes):

TLF Thickness: Measurement of the posterior layer of the thoracolumbar fascia.

Multifidus Muscle Thickness: Quantitative measurement of the multifidus muscle thickness and potential hypertrophy post-intervention.

All measurements will be performed by a blinded assessor to ensure the objectivity of the data.

Statistical Plan Comparison: Intra-group changes will be analyzed with Paired t-tests, and inter-group differences with Independent t-tests.

Correlation: Pearson/Spearman tests will assess the relationship between ultrasonographic changes (TLF and multifidus thickness) and clinical improvements (VAS/ODI).

Inclusion criteria

• Chronic non-specific low back pain lasting at least 3 months
• No clinical signs of nerve root compression or neurological deficit
• Aged 18-45 years
• No physical therapy or manual therapy for low back pain in the last 1 month
• Pain intensity of at least 3 on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) in the last week
• Willingness to participate and provide written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• Systemic, neurological, or orthopedic conditions limiting exercise participation
• Lumbar radiculopathy or severe spinal pathology
• History of lumbar spine surgery
• Unhealed fracture or recent surgical intervention
• Rheumatologic or inflammatory diseases
• Neurological disorders affecting movement or balance
• Participation in any physiotherapy or rehabilitation program in the last 6 months
• Pregnancy or postpartum period within the last 6 months