Comparative Effects of Neural Mobilization and Myofascial Release Technique on Pain, Range of Motion and Disability Among Patients With Post Lumbar Spine Fusion
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.68279/5vzvny74Keywords:
Lumbar spine fusion; Neural mobilization; Myofascial release; Stabilization exercises; Low back pain; DisabilityAbstract
Background: Persistent pain and functional disability may continue following lumbar spine fusion and require postoperative rehabilitation. Neural mobilization and myofascial release target different potential contributors to persistent symptoms, but their comparative effects remain uncertain. Objective: To compare neural mobilization with myofascial release, each combined with stabilization exercises, for reducing pain and disability following lumbar spine fusion. Methods: This randomized clinical trial included 34 participants recruited through convenience sampling from clinical settings in Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan, and allocated equally to two groups. Group A received neural mobilization plus stabilization exercises, whereas Group B received myofascial release plus stabilization exercises. Both groups additionally received TENS and hot-pack application three times weekly for six weeks. Pain and disability were assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) at baseline and Week 6. Paired- and independent-samples t-tests were used for analysis. Results: NPRS decreased from 6.30±1.20 to 2.80±1.00 in Group A and from 6.10±1.30 to 3.60±1.10 in Group B. ODI decreased from 42.50±6.80% to 18.60±5.40% and from 41.90±7.10% to 24.20±6.00%, respectively. At Week 6, Group A had lower NPRS (mean difference −0.80; 95% CI −1.53 to −0.07; p=0.034) and ODI scores (−5.60 percentage points; 95% CI −9.59 to −1.61; p=0.007). Conclusion: Both rehabilitation approaches were associated with short-term reductions in pain and disability, with greater improvement observed in the neural mobilization group
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Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Qasim, Fariha Ambreen, Muhammad Zeeshan, Noorjhan, Muhammad Talha, Areeba Ghouri (Author)
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