Comparison of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation and Traditional Electrotherapy as Adjuncts to Standard Physiotherapy in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to compare the effects of adding neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) versus traditional electrotherapy, to standard physiotherapy on pain, function, sleep, and quality of life in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Methods: This prospective, two-arm randomized controlled trial included 30 adults with CLBP, assigned to receive either NMES or traditional electrotherapy alongside standardized physiotherapy (3 sessions/week for 12 weeks). Outcomes measured included pain (visual analogue scale), muscle strength (Medical Research Council Scale), hamstring length (active knee extension test), sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and quality of life (World Health Organization Quality of Life-Short Form). Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in all outcomes following the intervention (p<0.05). However, the NMES group showed greater pain reduction compared to the traditional electrotherapy group (p=0.009, effect size d=-1.03). No significant between-group differences were observed for muscle strength, hamstring length, sleep quality, or quality of life. Conclusion: NMES added to physiotherapy offers better pain relief and improves function, sleep, and quality of life in CLBP. It may be preferred for pain management, but further studies are needed to confirm this.