Therapeutic Effects of Instrument-assisted Versus Sound-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization in Chronic Non-specific Low Back Pain

There is limited literature on advanced soft tissue release techniques provided by primary healthcare practitioners specific to low back pain. Some of the studies are based on soft tissue mobilization using a mechanically assisted method, but they have limited outcomes, acute effects, and small sample sizes, which limit their generalization. Further literature is limited in the comparison of IASTM and SASTM. Further, there are limited techniques that can facilitate practitioners to identify the restrictions.

Firstly, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), due to its body contour and shape, recognizes specific tissue lesions and restriction sites while targeting specific points rather than using manual methods that cover a larger contact area. Using the mechanotransduction phenomenon, its mechanical stimuli initiate biochemical signals that trigger cellular responses and ultimately functional improvement. Biomechanically, fascial elasticity, fascial stiffness, and viscosity absorb and distribute forces. While tissue hydration level is increased, that is compromised in chronic low back pain.

Secondly, sound-assisted soft tissue mobilization could be an intervention for treating musculoskeletal disorders. The SASTM technique has the potential to be a game-changer in pain management after IASTM. The sound decreases as adhesions are broken. While breakdown of scar tissue can be a facilitator for ease of movement patterns.

Inclusion criteria

• Pain between the inferior gluteal folds and the costal margins.
• Pain with a duration of a minimum of 24 weeks.
• Moderate to severe pain (>3) was measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale.
• Straight Leg raise Limited (hamstring tightness)

Exclusion criteria

• Pain in lower back with radiating/referring but limited to proximal legs
• Pain for the last 03 months and at least half of the days in the last six months.
• Presence of neurological problem/deficit/disease (e.g., nerve root compression, motor deficit, paresthesia) and lower limb symptoms.
• Presence of disease like Infection, tumors, spondylolisthesis grade II or higher, vertebral fractures, identifiable cause like endometriosis
• Medicine like immunosuppression or steroid medication;
• Spinal deformities
• History of severe rheumatic, orthopedic, or cardiovascular disease in the last three months before study participation.
• Previously diagnosed Osteoporosis
• SIJ dysfunction is evaluated by a positive compression test.
• BMI over 35.
• Skin allergy or hypersensitivity that can lead to skin irritation due to IASTM/SASTM tools.