Immediate Effect of Dry Needling of Tight Hamstrings on Chronic Non specific Low Back Pain and Lumbar Range of Motion: A Quasi-experimental Study

Abstract

Introduction: The lumbar spine provides both stability and mobility while also protects neural structures. Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP) is commonly associated with postural dysfunction and reduced core stability, increasing mechanical stress on the lumbar region. Dry Needling (DN), involves insertion of fine needles into myofascial trigger points and is widely used for managing musculoskeletal pain. It helps reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and modulate pain. Thus, it may be an effective adjunct in the management of CLBP. Aim: To study the immediate effect of DN of tight hamstrings on chronic non specific low back pain and lumbar range of motion. Materials and Methods: The present one-group pretest posttest quasi-experimental study was conducted in the Department of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy of KJ Somaiya College of Physiotherapy, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India from September 2022 to March 2024. Individuals with chronic non specific Low Back Pain (NSLBP) (Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) 4 to 7) and hamstring tightness {>20* on Active Knee Extension Test (AKET)} in the age group of 18 to 45 years were included in the study using purposive sampling. Pre-treatment assessment was done using Numerical pain rating scale for low back pain, Measuring tape for range of motion (modified Schober’s test) of back and universal goniometer (AKET) for hamstring flexibility. DN was administered to the hamstring muscles at the predetermined treatment points. Following the intervention, post-treatment assessment was performed using the same outcome measures as those employed during the baseline evaluation. Following the post-treatment assessment, participants were prescribed a conventional exercise program. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 24. Data normality was checked using Shapiro-Wilk test. For the data that passed normality, paired t-test was used and for the data that did not pass normality Wilcoxon signedrank test was used Level of significance p-value=0.05. Results: The mean age group of subjects was 25.3±5.8 years. There were 12 males and 29 females included in the study. It was noted that there was an immediate and significant reduction in low back pain levels (p<0.001) and a significant increase in the hamstring muscle extensibility (p<0.001) was seen but no changes were seen in the lumbar range of motion (p=0.131) on DN the hamstring muscles. Conclusion: An immediate and significant reduction in low back pain and a significant increase in hamstring muscle extensibility Bilateral (B/L) were seen but no changes were seen in the lumbar range of motion post DN the hamstring muscles.