Chronic Non Specific Low Back PainNCT07719699
Effects of Whole-Body Vibration and Pilates on Pain, Dynamic Balance, and Functional Performance in Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain
A study testing Whole body vibration and Pilates in people with Chronic Non Specific Low Back Pain, run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) affects pain, balance, and functional ability. This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) and Pilates, both combined with conventional physiotherapy, on pain, dynamic balance, and functional performance. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Chronic Non Specific Low Back Pain
- What is being tested?
- Whole body vibration and Pilates
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 68 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 1 May 2026to 15 Sep 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 40 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Male and Female (18-40 years age)
- Pain lasting for more than 12 weeks(determined by patient history)
- Pain scores (VAS) ranging from 3 to 8 points
- Pain located between T12 and gluteal folds(determined via palpation)
- Not having attended Pilates for low back pain for atleast 6 months prior to enrollment
Who cannot join
- History of spinal surgery, fractures, tumors, infections, or inflammatory spinal disease.
- Pregnant or lactating( strongly contraindicated for whole body vibration due to potential fetal risk and pelvic instability)
- Radicular pain, nerve root compression or neurological deficits.
- Medical comorbidities (e.g cardiovascular, neurological, endocrine or metabolic disease)(5).
- Physical limitations (e.g. orthopedic or rheumatic diseases, muscular injury, fibromyalgia, or pain)that could affect their ability to perform the Pilate exercises.
- Participants whose weight exceeds 150kg ( that's the maximum weight bearing capacity for WBV)
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Pakistan1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
Surraya Azeem waqf hospital
Lahore, Punjab Province, 53400
Sajjad Ali Sajjad, Masters, 03347329370, Sajjad.ali@umt.edu.pk
About this study
Official title: Effects of Whole-Body Vibraton and Pilates on Pain, Dynamic Balance, and Functional Performance in Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain
Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) affects pain, balance, and functional ability. This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) and Pilates, both combined with conventional physiotherapy, on pain, dynamic balance, and functional performance.
A total of 68 participants aged 18-40 years will be randomly assigned to either a WBV group or a Pilates group. Both groups will receive treatment three times per week for four weeks. Outcomes will be measured using the Visual Analog Scale (pain), Y-Balance Test (dynamic balance), and Progressive Isoinertial Lifting Evaluation (functional performance).
The results will help determine which intervention is more effective for managing CNSLBP and guide evidence-based rehabilitation practices.
Read the detailed description
Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal condition that significantly impairs pain levels, dynamic balance, and functional performance, leading to reduced mobility and quality of life. Although various rehabilitation strategies exist, uncertainty remains regarding the comparative effectiveness of different interventions, particularly between active exercise-based approaches and passive modalities.
Pilates is a widely used exercise therapy focusing on core stability, postural control, flexibility, and muscle coordination, and has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing pain and disability in individuals with CNSLBP. Whole-body vibration (WBV), on the other hand, is an emerging rehabilitation modality that utilizes mechanical vibrations to stimulate neuromuscular activation, potentially improving muscle strength, balance, and functional performance. However, most previous studies have combined WBV with exercise, making it difficult to isolate its independent effects.
This randomized clinical trial aims to directly compare the effects of whole-body vibration therapy and Pilates, both combined with conventional physiotherapy, on pain intensity, dynamic balance, and functional performance in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.
A total of 68 participants aged 18-40 years with CNSLBP will be randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive whole-body vibration therapy along with conventional treatment, while Group B will receive Pilates exercises along with conventional treatment. Both interventions will be administered three times per week for four weeks.
Outcome measures will include pain intensity assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), dynamic balance assessed using the Y-Balance Test, and functional performance assessed using the Progressive Isoinertial Lifting Evaluation (PILE) test. Assessments will be conducted by a blinded outcome assessor to minimize bias.
The findings of this study will provide high-quality evidence regarding the comparative effectiveness of WBV and Pilates, particularly in relation to dynamic balance, an underexplored but clinically important outcome. This study will help inform evidence-based rehabilitation strategies and guide clinicians in selecting appropriate interventions for individuals with CNSLBP, especially for patients who may have limited tolerance for conventional exercise programs.
- Conditions
- Chronic Non Specific Low Back Pain
- Being tested
- Whole body vibration, Pilates
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Whole body vibrationOther
Whole-body vibration therapy will be delivered using a side-alternating vibration platform under the supervision of a trained physiotherapist. The intervention will be performed 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. Each session will last 30 minutes, consisting of 10 bouts of 2 minutes vibration followed by 1 minute rest.
Vibration parameters will include a frequency of 18 Hz and an amplitude of 2 mm. Participants will maintain a static standing posture with slight knee flexion, slight lumbar lordosis, and head erect. No additional exercises will be performed on the platform to isolate the effect of vibration. Participants will wear socks during the intervention.
All participants will also receive conventional physiotherapy, including:
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): 100 Hz frequency, 200 µs pulse duration, 10 minutes Joint mobilization: oscillations at 1-2 Hz applied for approximately 5 minutes to hypomobile or painful lumbar segments
PilatesOther
Mat-based Pilates exercises will be performed under the supervision of a trained physiotherapist. The intervention will be conducted 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30 minutes, using a 2:1 work-rest ratio similar to the WBV group.
The program will include:
Diaphragmatic breathing: 2 min activity + 1 min rest The Hundred: 2 sets of 2 min with 30 sec rest Roll Up: 5 cycles (40 sec activity + 20 sec rest) Single Leg Circles: small and large circles (40 sec each + 20 sec rest), bilaterally Spine Stretch: 5 cycles (40 sec activity + 20 sec rest) Single Leg Stretch: 4 cycles (40 sec activity + 20 sec rest) Diaphragmatic breathing (cool-down): 2 min activity + 1 min rest
Exercises will be performed at low to moderate intensity, focusing on core stabilization, breathing control, flexibility, and controlled movement.
All participants will also receive conventional physiotherapy, including TENS (100 Hz, 200 µs, 10 minutes) and lumbar joint mobilizatio
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Body Vibration | Experimental | Participants in this group will receive Whole Body Vibration training using a vibration platform. Sessions will be conducted 3 times per week for 4 weeks, lasting approximately 20-30 minutes per session. The protocol will include static and dynamic postures designed to activate lower and upper limb musculature, with incorporated upper limb movements and a 2:1 work-rest ratio Receives: Other: Whole body vibration |
| Pilates | Active comparator | participants in this group will receive a supervised mat-based Pilates program conducted by a trained physiotherapist. The intervention will be carried out 3 times per week for 4 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30 minutes. Exercises will focus on core stability, postural alignment, controlled breathing, and upper limb engagement, performed using an intermittent 2:1 work-rest ratio. Receives: Other: Pilates |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Pain intensity
Outcome Measure: Change in dynamic balance measured using the Y-Balance Test. Description: Dynamic balance will be assessed using the Y-Balance Test. Reach distances in the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions will be normalized to limb length, and a composite score (%) will be calculated. Higher composite scores indicate better dynamic balance.
Measured: Time Frame: Baseline and 4 weeks (post-intervention).
Dynamic Balance
Dynamic balance will be assessed using the Y-Balance Test Composite Reach Distance, normalized to limb length. Composite scores range from 0% to 100%. Higher scores indicate better dynamic balance.
Unit of Measure: Percent (%)
Measured: 4 weeks
Functional performance
Outcome Measure: Change in functional performance measured using the Progressive Isoinertial Lifting Evaluation (PILE).
Description: Functional performance will be assessed using the Progressive Isoinertial Lifting Evaluation (PILE), which measures lifting capacity during a standardized lifting task. The primary outcome will be the maximum weight lifted (kg) and the number of completed lifting stages. Higher values indicate better functional performance.
Measured: Time Frame: Baseline and 4 weeks (post-intervention).
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted22 Jul 2026
- Study start1 May 2026
- Primary completion30 Jul 2026
- Study completion15 Sep 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Chronic Non Specific Low Back PainStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 68 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Shoaib Waqas, Study chair, Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07719699
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- UBAS/ERB/26/04/014
- Status last verified
- Aug 2026
- First submitted
- 9 Jul 2026
- Last updated
- 26 Aug 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes: baseline participants
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 26 Aug 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Whole-Body Vibraton and Pilates on Pain, Dynamic Balance, and Functional Performance in Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07719699
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- UBAS/ERB/26/04/014
- Conditions
- Chronic Non Specific Low Back Pain
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 68 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Lahore University of Biological and Applied SciencesUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 May 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 30 Jul 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 15 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 22 Jul 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) affects pain, balance, and functional ability. This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) and Pilates, both combined with conventional physiotherapy, on pain, dynamic balance, and functional performance.
A total of 68 participants aged 18-40 years will be randomly assigned to either a WBV group or a Pilates group. Both groups will receive treatment three times per week for four weeks. Outcomes will be measured using the Visual Analog Scale (pain), Y-Balance Test (dynamic balance), and Progressive Isoinertial Lifting Evaluation (functional performance).
The results will help determine which intervention is more effective for managing CNSLBP and guide evidence-based rehabilitation practices.
Detailed description
Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal condition that significantly impairs pain levels, dynamic balance, and functional performance, leading to reduced mobility and quality of life. Although various rehabilitation strategies exist, uncertainty remains regarding the comparative effectiveness of different interventions, particularly between active exercise-based approaches and passive modalities.
Pilates is a widely used exercise therapy focusing on core stability, postural control, flexibility, and muscle coordination, and has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing pain and disability in individuals with CNSLBP. Whole-body vibration (WBV), on the other hand, is an emerging rehabilitation modality that utilizes mechanical vibrations to stimulate neuromuscular activation, potentially improving muscle strength, balance, and functional performance. However, most previous studies have combined WBV with exercise, making it difficult to isolate its independent effects.
This randomized clinical trial aims to directly compare the effects of whole-body vibration therapy and Pilates, both combined with conventional physiotherapy, on pain intensity, dynamic balance, and functional performance in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.
A total of 68 participants aged 18-40 years with CNSLBP will be randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive whole-body vibration therapy along with conventional treatment, while Group B will receive Pilates exercises along with conventional treatment. Both interventions will be administered three times per week for four weeks.
Outcome measures will include pain intensity assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), dynamic balance assessed using the Y-Balance Test, and functional performance assessed using the Progressive Isoinertial Lifting Evaluation (PILE) test. Assessments will be conducted by a blinded outcome assessor to minimize bias.
The findings of this study will provide high-quality evidence regarding the comparative effectiveness of WBV and Pilates, particularly in relation to dynamic balance, an underexplored but clinically important outcome. This study will help inform evidence-based rehabilitation strategies and guide clinicians in selecting appropriate interventions for individuals with CNSLBP, especially for patients who may have limited tolerance for conventional exercise programs.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Body Vibration | Experimental | Other: Whole body vibrationParticipants in this group will receive Whole Body Vibration training using a vibration platform. Sessions will be conducted 3 times per week for 4 weeks, lasting approximately 20-30 minutes per session. The protocol will include static and dynamic postures designed to activate lower and upper limb musculature, with incorporated upper limb movements and a 2:1 work-rest ratio |
| Pilates | Active comparator | Other: Pilatesparticipants in this group will receive a supervised mat-based Pilates program conducted by a trained physiotherapist. The intervention will be carried out 3 times per week for 4 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30 minutes. Exercises will focus on core stability, postural alignment, controlled breathing, and upper limb engagement, performed using an intermittent 2:1 work-rest ratio. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 40 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (5 listed)
- Male and Female (18-40 years age)
- Pain lasting for more than 12 weeks(determined by patient history)
- Pain scores (VAS) ranging from 3 to 8 points
- Pain located between T12 and gluteal folds(determined via palpation)
- Not having attended Pilates for low back pain for atleast 6 months prior to enrollment
Key exclusion criteria (6 listed)
- History of spinal surgery, fractures, tumors, infections, or inflammatory spinal disease.
- Pregnant or lactating( strongly contraindicated for whole body vibration due to potential fetal risk and pelvic instability)
- Radicular pain, nerve root compression or neurological deficits.
- Medical comorbidities (e.g cardiovascular, neurological, endocrine or metabolic disease)(5).
- Physical limitations (e.g. orthopedic or rheumatic diseases, muscular injury, fibromyalgia, or pain)that could affect their ability to perform the Pilate exercises.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Whole body vibrationWhole-body vibration therapy will be delivered using a side-alternating vibration platform under the supervision of a trained physiotherapist. The intervention will be performed 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. Each session will last 30 minutes, consisting of 10 bouts of 2 minutes vibration followed by 1 minute rest. Vibration parameters will include a frequency of 18 Hz and an amplitude of 2 mm. Participants will maintain a static standing posture with slight knee flexion, slight lumbar lordosis, and head erect. No additional exercises will be performed on the platform to isolate the effect of vibration. Participants will wear socks during the intervention. All participants will also receive conventional physiotherapy, including: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): 100 Hz frequency, 200 µs pulse duration, 10 minutes Joint mobilization: oscillations at 1-2 Hz applied for approximately 5 minutes to hypomobile or painful lumbar segments | Other | Whole Body Vibration |
| PilatesMat-based Pilates exercises will be performed under the supervision of a trained physiotherapist. The intervention will be conducted 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 30 minutes, using a 2:1 work-rest ratio similar to the WBV group. The program will include: Diaphragmatic breathing: 2 min activity + 1 min rest The Hundred: 2 sets of 2 min with 30 sec rest Roll Up: 5 cycles (40 sec activity + 20 sec rest) Single Leg Circles: small and large circles (40 sec each + 20 sec rest), bilaterally Spine Stretch: 5 cycles (40 sec activity + 20 sec rest) Single Leg Stretch: 4 cycles (40 sec activity + 20 sec rest) Diaphragmatic breathing (cool-down): 2 min activity + 1 min rest Exercises will be performed at low to moderate intensity, focusing on core stabilization, breathing control, flexibility, and controlled movement. All participants will also receive conventional physiotherapy, including TENS (100 Hz, 200 µs, 10 minutes) and lumbar joint mobilizatio | Other | Pilates |
Primary outcome
Pain intensity
Time frame: Time Frame: Baseline and 4 weeks (post-intervention).
Outcome Measure: Change in dynamic balance measured using the Y-Balance Test. Description: Dynamic balance will be assessed using the Y-Balance Test. Reach distances in the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions will be normalized to limb length, and a composite score (%) will be calculated. Higher composite scores indicate better dynamic balance.
Dynamic Balance
Time frame: 4 weeks
Dynamic balance will be assessed using the Y-Balance Test Composite Reach Distance, normalized to limb length. Composite scores range from 0% to 100%. Higher scores indicate better dynamic balance. Unit of Measure: Percent (%)
Functional performance
Time frame: Time Frame: Baseline and 4 weeks (post-intervention).
Outcome Measure: Change in functional performance measured using the Progressive Isoinertial Lifting Evaluation (PILE). Description: Functional performance will be assessed using the Progressive Isoinertial Lifting Evaluation (PILE), which measures lifting capacity during a standardized lifting task. The primary outcome will be the maximum weight lifted (kg) and the number of completed lifting stages. Higher values indicate better functional performance.
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 26 Aug 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes. baseline participants
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
Shoaib Waqas study chair
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Whole body vibration and Pilates in people with Chronic Non Specific Low Back Pain, run by Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 5 inclusion and 6 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 26 Aug 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Dr Mehwish Khalid, MSPT (03324302282, mehwish.khalid@ubas.edu.pk), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Pain intensity (time frame: Time Frame: Baseline and 4 weeks (post-intervention).). The study lists 3 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 26 Aug 2026.