Effects of muscle energy technique and positional release technique on low back pain: A comparative study

Objectives: The objectives of the study are to compare the effects of muscle energy technique (MET) and positional release technique (PRT) on pain intensity, functional disability, and lumbar range of motion (ROM) in adults with mechanical low back pain (LBP). Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 100 participants (26–40 years) with mechanical LBP were randomized to two groups: Group A – MET ( n = 50) and Group B – PRT ( n = 50). Both groups received 12 sessions over 2 weeks. Pain was assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS); disability using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI); and lumbar ROM using the modified Schober test at baseline, post-intervention, and 15-day follow-up. Between-group comparisons were performed at each time point with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Both interventions improved all outcomes over time ( p < 0.001 within each group). At follow-up, MET showed lower NPRS (2.46 ± 0.71 vs. 3.74 ± 0.69), lower ODI (26.44 ± 6.24 vs. 31.34 ± 5.88), and greater lumbar ROM (6.74 ± 0.92 cm vs. 4.66 ± 0.85 cm) than PRT (all p < 0.001). Conclusion: MET and PRT both improved pain, disability, and lumbar mobility in mechanical LBP; however, MET produced superior between-group outcomes and may be considered better in rehabilitation protocols.