Assessment of Immediate Effects of Different Electrotherapeutic Modality with Cobra Extension Regime in Low Back Pain: A Comparative Study
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Abstract
Background: Nonspecific low back pain is a common musculoskeletal condition that can impair mobility, function, and daily activity in young adults. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and superficial heat therapy are frequently used physiotherapy modalities for pain relief, while cobra extension exercise may support lumbar mobility and movement tolerance. Objective: To compare the immediate effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation combined with cobra extension exercise versus hot pack therapy combined with cobra extension exercise on pain intensity and lumbar range of motion among young adults with nonspecific low back pain. Methods: This comparative pretest–posttest experimental study included 30 male participants aged 18–28 years with nonspecific low back pain. Participants were divided into two equal groups: Group 1 received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for 15 minutes followed by cobra extension exercise, while Group 2 received hot pack therapy for 15 minutes followed by the same cobra extension regimen. Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale, and lumbar flexion and extension were measured using a universal goniometer before and immediately after intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results: Pain decreased in both groups, from 1.80 ± 0.775 to 1.47 ± 0.743 in the TENS group and from 2.20 ± 0.414 to 1.53 ± 0.640 in the hot pack group. Lumbar flexion increased from 58.27 ± 2.434 to 61.73 ± 3.058 in the TENS group and from 51.67 ± 8.958 to 53.80 ± 8.866 in the hot pack group. Lumbar extension increased from 27.33 ± 3.539 to 30.93 ± 9.430 in the TENS group and from 19.13 ± 3.159 to 21.47 ± 3.226 in the hot pack group. Overall pre–post improvements were significant for pain, flexion, and extension, while group-by-time interactions were not significant. Conclusion: Both TENS and hot pack therapy combined with cobra extension exercise produced immediate improvements in pain and lumbar range of motion, but neither intervention demonstrated statistically superior immediate effects.
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