Psoas Major Muscle Intervention on Chronic Lumbar Pain in Cleaning Professionals.

Influence of the Stretching Technique on the Psoas Major Muscle on Chronic Lumbar Pain in Cleaning Professionals: Randomized Controlled Trial.

The goal of this randomized controlled trial is to determine the effect of a psoas major muscle intervention on non-specific and chronic lumbar pain in cleaning professionals. It is expected that this intervention will reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms. This study aims to evaluate the effect of psoas major stretching techniques. To collect data, participants will rate their pain intensity on a numeric pain scale at rest and during maximal lumbar flexion. Secondary variables include lumbar flexion range of motion (ROM), assessed by the Schöber test, and hip ROM, which will be measured before and after the intervention using a digital goniometer.

Cleaning professionals are particularly vulnerable to musculoskeletal pain, predominantly low back pain due to intense occupational hazards like repetitive movements, heavy lifting in awkward postures, and prolonged standing. The psoas major muscle plays a critical role in this clinical context; morphological changes, such as muscle atrophy and fat infiltration, are commonly observed in low back pain patients. Furthermore, a shortened or asymmetrical psoas alters spinal biomechanics-often increasing lumbar lordosis and overloading facet joints-which strongly predisposes individuals to chronic pain and instability. Furthermore, a shortened or asymmetrical psoas alters spinal biomechanics-often increasing lumbar lordosis and overloading facet joints-which strongly predisposes individuals to chronic pain and instability.

This study aims to highlight the biomechanical importance of the iliopsoas muscle and evaluate the therapeutic impact of the stretching technique in reducing symptoms, improving mobility, and preventing functional limitations associated with iliopsoas dysfunction.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being a cleaning professional for at least 4 years
• Report at least 1 episode of lumbar pain in the last 3 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any severe spinal condition (such as spondylolisthesis, spine fracture, etc.)
• Any severe neurological or rheumatological condition
• Pregnancy
• Daily use of pain medication