Can a simple stretch ease chronic back pain?

NCT ID NCT04551326

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 03, 2026 · Last updated Aug 04, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether a single session of hamstring stretching can immediately improve flexibility and reduce disability in people with chronic low back pain. Adults aged 18 to 60 with tight hamstrings and back pain lasting over three months will receive a one-minute stretch on each leg performed by a physical therapist. Researchers will measure changes in knee extension and straight-leg raise angles, and explore how psychological and social factors might influence the response.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: manual hamstring stretching
What this could lead to: If effective, this simple stretching technique could offer a quick, drug-free way to improve flexibility and reduce disability in people with chronic low back pain.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial measuring immediate effects only, so any benefits may be short-lived or not translate to long-term relief. Results may also vary widely between individuals.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for CHRONIC LOW-BACK PAIN are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CHRONIC LOW-BACK PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

CHu de Nîmes

Nîmes, France
University Hospital, Clermont Ferrand

Clermont-Ferrand, 63000, France

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.