EFFECT OF MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUES [METS]ON PAIN AND RANGE OF MOTION OF LUMBAR SPINE IN SUBJECTS WITH MECHANICAL LOW BACK PAIN [QUADRATUS LUMBORUM]

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders worldwide and a leading cause of disability. The quadratus lumborum (QL) muscle plays a vital role in spinal stability and is frequently implicated in mechanical low back pain. Muscle Energy Techniques (METS) have been proposed as an effective intervention to alleviate QL dysfunction. Objective: To evaluate the effect of METS on QL muscle strain in subjects with non-specific low back pain (NSLBP). Methodology: A pre-post interventional study was conducted on 30 female participants aged 25–35 years diagnosed with NSLBP involving the QL. Participants received METS (post-isometric contraction technique) for three weeks. Pain intensity was measured using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and lumbar lateral flexion range of motion (ROM) was assessed using an inch tape. Results: METS demonstrated significant improvements in NPRS scores (pre: 7.90±0.96; post: 6.03±0.92; p<0.01) and lumbar ROM (pre: 10.03±2.31; post: 11.62±2.17; p<0.01). Conclusion: METS significantly reduced pain and improved lumbar lateral flexion ROM in NSLBP patients, supporting its use as an effective non-invasive intervention.