Graston Versus Active Release Technique in Females With Non Specific Low Back Pain

Low back pain (LBP) is a condition experienced at least once by more than 80% of the human race the world over. More than 85% of cases of LBP in the USA are classified as nonspecific LBP defined by tension, soreness, and/or stiffness of the lower back with unknown origins of pain. Non-specific low back pain (NLBP) or "simple backache" is characterized as an LBP not due to any identifiable disease such as nerve root pain and severe spinal pathologies such as infection, tumor, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, fracture or inflammation. Back pain causes decreased lumbar extensibility, limited range of motion (LOM) and gait ability, and change of rhythm in the pelvis, limitations that can restrict social activities. One of the most widely studied outcomes in LBP patients is the reduction of hamstring extensibility. A shortening of the hamstring may result in LOM of the knee joint, restricting a person's ability to walk and run. In addition, it increases posterior pelvic tilting and reduces lumbar lordosis, contributing to a flat back that can result in low back. Methods for increasing the length of the shortened hamstring include stretching, eccentric resistance exercise, Graston instrument soft tissue mobilization, and self-myofascial release. Hamstring tightness is prevalent with the low back pain yet there is a need to establish a standardized treatment protocol for the condition. That's why this study will try to find out effective manner to release the pain and improve the flexibility of hamstring muscles.

The aim of this study is to determine the comparative effects of ART and Graston Technique specifically with each other on Hamstring flexibility, pain and disability in females with nonspecific low back pain. Therefore, this study will put into effect so that Graston Technique and ART can be compared against each other to see if one is more effective for restoration of full soft tissue function and relieving pain. This study will provide significant information that will aid in the creation of therapeutic interventions to improve pain, range of motion and functional limitations in females with non-specific low back pain. Graston Technique (GT) is a soft tissue mobilization treatment method using a tool that generates mechanical micro-traumatic damage to the treated area. In ART the goal is to remove the soft tissue adhesions by decreasing tissue tension. The muscle is taken from a shortened position to a lengthened position while a contact hand is holding tissue tension longitudinally along the soft tissue fibers.

Inclusion criteria

• Females with Non Specific Low Back Pain
• Age group between 25 and 50 years
• History of NSLBP for at least 3 months
• Popliteal angle Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score of 3-7/10
• The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score of 20-60
• Patients agree to sign written consent form.

Exclusion criteria

• Acute onset of pain and pain with radiation below knee.
• Any history of injury in the lower extremity in the past three months.
• Constant or persistent severe pain, inflammatory conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis)
• participants must not be taking any treatment of a musculoskeletal nature.
• Any previous surgery around the knee and hip
• hamstrings injury and strains
• Pregnant females
• Allergy to hot pack