The effects of myofascial release technique for patients with low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Myofascial release is a manual therapy technique often used alongside other treatments for low back pain, but how much it actually adds has been unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis pooled data from eight randomized controlled trials, involving 386 patients total, comparing myofascial release against control interventions for pain, back disability, lumbar range of motion, and quality of life. The pooled results showed a statistically significant reduction in back disability when myofascial release was used, but no statistically significant differences were found for pain intensity, quality of life, or lumbar range of motion in any direction tested. This mixed pattern, one positive outcome among several null ones, is worth noting because it suggests any benefit may be narrow rather than broad.

The evidence base remains limited in size, with considerable inconsistency between trials for several outcomes, so these findings should be read as preliminary rather than conclusive.

placeholder

This is a summary of research, not medical advice. Talk to your own healthcare provider about anything affecting your care.

,