Tensiomyography of Gastrocnemius in Lumbar Radiculopathy

Launched by CAIRO UNIVERSITY · Jan 8, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how the gastrocnemius muscles, which are located in the calf, behave in people who have chronic lumbar radiculopathy—a condition that causes pain and other symptoms due to nerve issues in the lower back. Researchers will use a special technique called tensiomyography to measure things like how quickly the muscles contract and relax. By comparing the affected limb to the unaffected one, the study aims to better understand how these muscle changes might affect movement and function in people with this condition. The hope is that this research will help develop better rehabilitation strategies for those suffering from chronic lumbar radiculopathy.

To be eligible for the trial, participants need to be adults between 18 and 55 years old who have been diagnosed with chronic lumbar radiculopathy for at least 12 weeks. They must have symptoms affecting one leg while the other leg remains unaffected. Those with recent symptoms, serious leg issues, other neurological disorders, or certain health conditions may not qualify. Participants can expect to undergo assessments that will help researchers gather important information about muscle function, which could lead to improved treatment options in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adults aged 18-55 years.
• • Clinical diagnosis of chronic lumbar radiculopathy confirmed by MRI and clinical examination.
• • Presence of symptoms for more than 12 weeks.
• • One limb is affected by the condition, while the other limb is unaffected and will serve as the control.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • ● Acute lumbar radiculopathy (symptoms less than 12 weeks).
• • History of lower limb surgery or severe musculoskeletal disorders affecting the plantar flexor muscles.
• • Neurological disorders other than lumbar radiculopathy (e.g., peripheral neuropathy, multiple sclerosis).
• • Severe comorbid conditions that might interfere with the study (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes, severe cardiovascular disease).
• • Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• • Participation in another clinical trial within the last 30 days.
• • Use of medications that could affect muscle function (e.g., corticosteroids, muscle relaxants).