Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of Mulligan Bent Leg Raise (BLR) and Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glides (SNAGS) techniques in chronic low back pain. Methods: Forty-five individuals between the ages of 25-55 who had nonspecific low back pain at least 3 months were included in the study. The patients were randomly divided into 3 groups as Control group (n= 15), Mulligan BLR group (n= 15) and Mulligan SNAGS group (n= 15). In addition to the classical electrotherapy methods applied to all 3 groups; Mulligan BLR technique was applied to BLR group and Mulligan SNAGS technique was applied to SNAGS group. Patients’ pain at rest and in motion was evaluated with visual analog scale, lumbar range of motion with inclinometer, flexibility assessment with Schober and finger-floor test, and functional levels with Oswestry Low Back Pain Questionnaire before and after treatment. Results: After treatment, a significant difference was determined in pain intensity during rest and movement and in the results of Schober test in all groups (p<0.001). The increase in range of motion of the patients in the SNAGS group was found to be significantly higher than the other groups (p<0.05). It was determined that the change in finger ground test in the SNAGS group was significantly higher than the other groups (p<0.05). When Oswestry results were compared, the change in the BLR group was significantly higher than the other groups (p <0.05). Conclusion: Mulligan mobilization techniques were found effective in reducing pain, increasing range of motion, flexibility, and functionality. When the Mulligan mobilization groups were compared, it was determined that the BLR group was more effective in enhancing functionality than the SNAGS group, and the SNAGS group was more effective in enhancing joint range of motion and flexibility than the BLR group.