Name and Surname: assist. prof. Matej Voglar, PhD
Links: ARRS 35490, LINKEDIN
E-Mail: matej.voglar@fvz.upr.si

Research facility (research activity location)
University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences

Research field according to ARRS classification
Science: Social sciences
Field: Sport
Subfield: Kinesiology – medical aspect

Summary of research topic and field
Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders, substantially affecting quality of life and placing a considerable burden on healthcare systems. It is often associated with changes in the mechanical properties of muscles and other soft tissues in the lumbar region. Although manual therapy is widely used in physiotherapy practice, its effects on objectively
measurable indicators of trunk function remain insufficiently understood. This doctoral project will investigate the effects of manual techniques on trunk function and on the stiffness of the lumbar region. The first part of the project will focus on examining the relationship between the duration, intensity, and application velocity of manual techniques and their acute effects on trunk muscle function. In parallel, the project will continue exploring the relationship between two contemporary methods for assessing soft tissue stiffness, shear wave elastography (SWE) and myotonometry, in order to evaluate their agreement and usefulness in both research and
clinical settings. In the final phase of the project, the effects of manual therapy will be examined in individuals with chronic LBP, where manual therapy will be added to standard physiotherapy treatment. Changes in neuromuscular function, mechanical muscle properties, pain, and functional performance will be assessed. The project will contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying manual therapy and support the development of more precise and evidence-based approaches to the management of individuals with chronic low back pain.