Effects of Isolated Lumbar Extension Resistance Training Alone and in Combination with General Exercise and Manual Therapy

Summary

This study examines effects of machine-based isolated lumbar extension resistance exercise (ILEX) on paraspinal muscle morphology and function, as well as pain intensity, disability and quality of life in patients with chronic low back pain and radiculopathy related to specific spinal disorders. Current guidelines emphasize the necessity of treating chronic low back pain with integrative, holistic approaches due to its multidimensional nature. At the same time, an increasing number of studies highlight the importance of restoring lumbar muscle function and morphology through targeted training. Regarding ILEX, existing studies already support its clinical value, however, the optimal integration of ILEX with other therapeutic modalities remains unclear.

Two groups will be enrolled in an ILEX protocol (16 weeks, 25 sessions), while one of the groups will additionally participate in general exercise and manual therapy.

After completion of the main program, participants will be given different options to continue the exercise therapy with a reduced frequency (e.g., once per month). After six months, a follow-up assessment will be conducted with all participants to analyze long-term efficacy.

Conditions

• Low Back Pain
• Multifidus
• Exercise Therapy
• Diagnostic Imaging

Interventions

OTHER

Targeted exercise program

Participants in the active comparator group will perform 25 sessions of isolated lumbar extension resistance exercise (ILEX) using a new machine-based device equipped with a pelvic restraint system to ensure targeted conditioning of the paraspinal muscles. The exercise will be supplemented by visual biofeedback displayed on a computer screen. A detailed protocol will be followed, incorporating an individualized, diagnosis-based range of motion and progressive resistance overload. The supervised 16-week program consists of two sessions per week for the first nine weeks, followed by one session per week for the remaining seven weeks.

OTHER

Targeted exercise as part of an integrative therapy program

Participants in the experimental group will perform 25 sessions of isolated lumbar extension resistance exercise (ILEX) using a new machine-based device equipped with a pelvic restraint system to ensure targeted conditioning of the paraspinal muscles. The exercise will be supplemented by visual biofeedback displayed on a computer screen. A detailed protocol will be followed, incorporating an individualized, diagnosis-based range of motion and progressive resistance overload. The supervised 16-week program consists of two sessions per week for the first nine weeks, followed by one session per week for the remaining seven weeks. Each session is supplemented with general exercises for the back and trunk muscles (e.g., lat pulldown, abdominal crunch). In addition, participants will receive at least five sessions of therapy, which may include joint mobilization, tissue treatment, stress management, and other therapeutic modalities.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Private Spine Center Dr. Alfen

  collaborator UNKNOWN

• University of Wuerzburg

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Christoph Raschka, Prof. Dr. Dr. Dr. · University of Wuerzburg

Study Design

Allocation

NON_RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

65 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2021-12-01

Primary Completion

2024-12-24

Completion

2025-06-24

Countries

• Germany

Study Locations