Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte

Introduction: Currently, clinical practice guidelines recommend exercise as a first-line approach to the treatment of chronic low back pain (LBP). On the other hand, passive techniques such as cupping therapy have gained space in the management of this population, however, important gaps regarding the combination of cupping therapy with active exercises in individuals with nonspecific chronic low back pain are still present in the literature. In this context, this protocol describes a sham-controlled, randomized and blinded study that aims to evaluate the additional effects of cupping therapy in association with McKenzie method exercises on pain and functional outcomes of individuals with nonspecific chronic low back pain. Methods: 108 individuals with nonspecific and localized chronic low back pain in the age group of 18 to 59 years will be recruited and evaluated, regarding the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Subsequently, they will be randomized to one of 2 groups: intervention group, in which they will be submitted to the McKenzie method intervention and later the addition of the dry suction cup; and sham group, in which, after the intervention of the McKenzie method, the application of the sham cup will be added.

Hallux valgus is one of the most common forefoot deformities. Its prevalence increases with age, representing approximately 23% in adulthood, being more common in females. Some studies indicate that the use of the insole associated with the finger separator promotes pain relief and that this may be related to better alignment of the hallux. However, there is still no consensus about the ideal insole or how long it should be used to relieve pain or improve function in patients with hallux valgus. Therefore, the objective of this study will be to evaluate the effect of the customized insole on pain and function of individuals with symptomatic hallux valgus.