Enhanced Physical Therapy for Chronic Lower Back Pain
(SCEPTER Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to find the best non-drug treatments for chronic low back pain in U.S. Veterans. It compares regular care, online programs, and physical therapy first. If needed, patients can then try yoga, spinal adjustments, or mental health therapy to manage their pain.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on non-drug treatments for chronic lower back pain.
Is enhanced physical therapy for chronic lower back pain safe for humans?
How is the treatment Pain EASE different from other treatments for chronic lower back pain?
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Enhanced Physical Therapy for Chronic Lower Back Pain?
Who Is on the Research Team?
David J Clark, PhD MD
Principal Investigator
VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA
Matthew J. Bair, MD MS
Principal Investigator
Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for US Veterans over 18 with chronic lower back pain lasting at least 6 months, who can attend in-person sessions and have internet access. It's not for those currently in another study, with certain acute illnesses or recent heart issues, pregnant women, or those recently treated with CBT, SMT, or Yoga.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Step 1 Treatment
Participants receive either continued care and active monitoring (CCAM), internet-based pain self-management (Pain EASE), or an enhanced physical therapy intervention combining Pain EASE with tailored exercise and physical activity.
Step 2 Treatment
Participants who do not achieve significant pain reduction in Step 1 or desire additional treatment are randomized to yoga, spinal manipulation therapy (SMT), or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment to assess the durability of treatment effects.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Pain EASE
- Spinal Manipulation Therapy (SMT)
- Tailored exercise
- Yoga
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor