Abstract
M.Tech.
The purpose of this study was to determine the role of treating the gastrocnemius-soleus complex (GSC) through dry needling and passive stretching, in the management of chronic low back pain.
This research aims to compare the effects of treating the GSC alone, lumbar spine manipulation alone or the combination of the two modalities in people suffering from chronic low back pain.
Thirty candidates suffering from chronic low back pain between the ages of eighteen to forty years participated in this study. These candidates were recruited from the local surrounding area, through information pamphlets distributed throughout the Technikon Witwatersrand Doornfontein and advertisements placed in the local newspapers. Only those candidates that conformed to the selection criteria were allowed to participate in the study. Each candidate was randomly assigned to one of three groups as they enrolled for participation. Each group consisted of ten candidates. Group 1 candidates received treatment to the GSC by means of dry needling and passive stretching only. Group 2 candidates received lumbar spine manipulation only. Group 3 candidates received a combination of lumbar spine manipulation and dry needling and passive stretching of the GSC. Each candidate received treatment three times a week, every second day over three weeks thus receiving a total of nine treatments each.
Subjective data was collected using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale 101 and the Oswestry Low Back Pain and Disability Questionnaire. Objective data was collected using the electronic inclinometer to measure the lumbar spine range of motion in flexion, extension, right and left lateral flexion and right and left anterior rotation. Pressure algometry of the most active trigger point in the GSC was also recorded. Both the subjective and objective data were recorded on the first, third, fifth and ninth treatment consultations before any treatment was administered.