Effectiveness of Maitland Mobilisation Grade II Versus Neuromuscular Re- Education Exercise in Managing Chronic Low Back Pain Secondary to Postural Syndrome

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a common musculoskeletal condition secondary to postural syndrome associated with disability and reduced productivity. This study compared the effects of Maitland Mobilisation Grade II and Neuromuscular Re-education (NMR) exercises in individuals with CLBP. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 80 participants aged 35–50 years who had CLBP due to postural syndrome. Participants were evenly divided into Group A (Maitland Mobilisation Grade II) or Group B (NMR exercises). Interventions were delivered three times weekly for four weeks. Outcomes included pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale), lumbar range of motion (goniometer), and Oswestry Disability Index for functional disability. Results: Both groups showed greater improvements in pain, ROM, and functional disability (p<0.001) compared to baseline. Compared to Group A, Group B demonstrated greater improvement in functional mobility (ODI reduction: 19.4 ± 3.2 vs 15.6 ± 3.9; p=0.012) and larger gains in trunk flexion and extension ROM (p<0.05). In contrast, Group A achieved greater short-term pain reduction than Group B (VAS decrease: 4.6 ± 1.1 vs 3.8 ± 1.3; p=0.031). Conclusion: Maitland Mobilisation Grade II is more effective for short-term pain relief, whereas NMR exercises are associated with greater improvements in functional mobility and postural control. Employing a combined or sequential approach may further enhance outcomes in the management of CLBP.