Rehab Program for Spinal Stenosis
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a 6-week rehab program for individuals with spinal stenosis, a condition that narrows spaces in the spine, causing pain and difficulty walking. The study aims to determine if combining education with specific exercises (Specific Rehabilitation Program) improves walking ability more than education alone. Participants should have had symptoms for at least 3 months, be able to walk at least 20 meters without assistance, but unable to walk continuously for 30 minutes, and have spinal stenosis. The trial will also assess other benefits, such as reduced pain, improved balance, and increased physical activity. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to enhance understanding of effective rehabilitation strategies for spinal stenosis.
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's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this rehabilitation program is safe for patients with spinal stenosis?
Previous studies have shown that exercise programs for spinal stenosis are safe. Research indicates that combining manual therapy with supervised exercise generally improves short-term walking ability. Patients tolerated this approach well, with no major side effects reported. Another study found that personalized exercise improved symptoms and function in about 20% of participants, indicating its effectiveness and safety for many.
In summary, the specific rehabilitation program, which includes education and exercises, appears safe. Studies show it can enhance walking ability and reduce symptoms without significant risks.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this specific rehabilitation program for spinal stenosis because it combines education with targeted exercises, unlike the usual reliance on medication and surgery. Standard treatments often focus on pain relief through drugs or invasive procedures. This program, however, aims to improve mobility and reduce pain by strengthening the muscles around the spine, offering a non-invasive approach with potential long-term benefits. By empowering patients with knowledge and exercises tailored to their condition, this method could enhance quality of life without the side effects associated with traditional treatments.
What evidence suggests that this rehabilitation program is effective for spinal stenosis?
Research has shown that a special rehabilitation program, which includes education and exercises, can help people with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) walk better. In this trial, participants in the intervention group will receive both education and a specific rehabilitation program. A review of studies found that these programs improve walking in the short term and slightly boost physical function. Another study found that manual therapy and personalized exercises significantly improved symptoms and physical function for about 20% of participants. Additionally, combining cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with exercise reduced disability and back pain more effectively than other non-surgical treatments. These findings suggest that a 6-week specific rehabilitation program might help people with LSS walk more easily and feel less pain.12346
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people over 50 with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) causing nerve compression, who can speak French and commit to three sessions a week. They should be able to walk 20 meters but not continuously for 30 minutes. Excluded are those with congenital LSS, significant hip/knee arthritis, neurological diseases like Parkinson's, uncontrolled diabetes, heart failure, vascular claudication or recent back surgery.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive a 6-week specific rehabilitation program combining education and exercises
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in anxiety, depression, physical activity, and other secondary outcomes
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Specific Rehabilitation Program
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
Lead Sponsor