Manual Therapy Approaches in Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome: Comparing Muscle Energy Technique (MET) versus Myofascial Release (MFR) with Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
Abstract: Background: Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome (QLS) is one of the most widely seen yet underdiagnosed causes of low back pain in clinical practice. It arises from myofascial trigger points within the quadratus lumborum muscle, producing deep lumbar aching, restricted spinal movement, and considerable difficulty in performing routine daily activities. Manual therapy techniques such as Muscle Energy Technique (MET) and Myofascial Release (MFR) are increasingly applied in clinical management of this condition, yet direct comparative evidence remains limited. Objective: This study set out to evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes of MET and MFR, each administered alongside Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), in patients diagnosed with QLS. Methods: Sixty patients between 30 and 50 years of age, all diagnosed with QLS, were enrolled and randomly divided into two treatment groups of thirty each. Patients in Group A underwent MET sessions combined with TENS, while those in Group B received MFR combined with TENS. Both groups attended four treatment sessions every week over a period of two weeks. Pain sensitivity was evaluated using the Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) measured with a digital algometer. Lumbar mobility was assessed through the Modified Schober?s Test for flexion and extension, and the Finger-to-Floor Distance (FFD) test for lateral flexion. Functional disability was quantified using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMQ). Paired t-tests were used for within-group comparisons, independent t-tests for between-group analysis, and Chi-square tests for nominal data, with statistical significance set at p
Keywords: Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome, Myofascial Pain Syndrome, Myofascial Release, Muscle Energy Technique, TENS, Pressure Pain Threshold, Lumbar Range of Motion, Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire
How to Cite?: Ruchita Chandrakant Kyadari, Veena J., Dr. Yatish R., "Manual Therapy Approaches in Quadratus Lumborum Syndrome: Comparing Muscle Energy Technique (MET) versus Myofascial Release (MFR) with Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation", Volume 15 Issue 7, July 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 100-106, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26701135803, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26701135803