RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06888895

Comparison of the Immediate Effect of Passive vs. Passive-Active Hamstring Stretching on Flexibility in Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain

Comparison of the Immediate Effect of Passive vs. Passive-Active Hamstring Stretching on Flexibility in Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial: EFIM2

Sponsor

University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand

Enrollment

90 participants

Start Date

Sep 30, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP)

Summary

The goal of this clinical trial is to determine whether a combination of passive and active hamstring stretching (PAS) is more effective than passive stretching alone (PS) in improving flexibility in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). The main questions it aims to answer are: Does PAS lead to greater improvements in active flexibility compared to PS? Does PAS provide additional benefits in passive flexibility, hamstring stiffness, and pelvic tilt? Researchers will compare the PAS group and the PS group to see if combining passive and active stretching results in greater improvements in flexibility and movement control. Participants will: Perform either PAS or PS stretching exercises as assigned. Undergo measurements of flexibility, hamstring stiffness, and pelvic tilt before and after the intervention. Answer a question about their perceived change in flexibility following the intervention. This study aims to improve rehabilitation strategies for people with CLBP, helping them achieve better movement and pain relief.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 65 Years

Inclusion Criteria3

Male or female patients aged between 18 and 65 years
Suffering from low-back pain for at least 3 months
Presenting with hamstring flexibility deficit (Straight Leg Raise <85°, Fingertip-to-Floor distance >5 cm)

Exclusion Criteria6

Patients with radicular pain
Disc inflammation (MODIC Type 1)
Other relevant pathologies (neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, or oncological diseases)
Significant surgical history (e.g., lumbar arthrodesis, knee or hip arthroplasty)
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Patients under protective legal measures

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Interventions

OTHERPassive-active stretching (PAS)

Passive-active stretching (PAS) combines conventional passive stretching with active exercises designed to activate muscles that promote hamstring elongation. On the other hand, passive stretching (PS) is a commonly administered intervention to improve hamstring flexibility.

OTHERPassive hamstring stretching

Participants will receive one minute of passive hamstring stretching applied three times for each lower limb, with a 30-second rest time between stretches.