Which core workout wins for back pain? a Head-to-Head test
NCT ID NCT07775131
First seen Aug 20, 2026 · Last updated Aug 21, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial compares two popular core exercise programs to see which better reduces pain and improves daily function in people with non-specific chronic low back pain. One group follows the McGill method, using exercises like curl-ups, side planks, and bird-dogs to engage deep stabilizing muscles. The other group follows the Sahrmann protocol, a progressive series of core-control exercises. Researchers will measure pain intensity and disability before and after the program to see if one approach offers a clearer benefit.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Two exercise programs: McGill core stabilization exercises (curl-up, side plank, bird-dog) and the Sahrmann core control protocol (progressive levels 1-5).
- What this could lead to
- If one program proves more effective, it could point toward a better, exercise-based approach for managing chronic low back pain without medication or surgery.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage trial, so results may not apply to everyone. Exercise benefits can vary, and neither program is guaranteed to outperform the other.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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44 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Apr 2026
- Finished
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Aug 2026
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 to 45 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria:• Age 18 to 45 years (male\\female) * Diagnosed with NSCLBP for more than 12 weeks * Pain intensity ≥ 3/10 (NPRS). * ODI score ≥ 20% * Not receiving any physiotherapy in the last 4 weeks * Able to perform exercise and attend follow-up sessions Exclusion Criteria: * Radiculopathy or neurological deficits * History of spinal surgery * Red flags (cancer, fracture, infection) * Pregnancy * Cardiopulmonary disease limiting exercise
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Department of Rehabilitation Sciences , The University of Faisalabad
Faisalābad, Punjab Province, 38000, Pakistan