Exercise Types for Low Back Pain
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Exercise therapy is the most recommended treatment for chronic low back pain. There is a wide range of exercises available and research studies have shown that no exercise is superior to another. The problem is that the effects of exercise in reducing pain and disability are small to moderate. Researchers and clinicians believe that different patients may best respond to different types of exercises. This means that if patients could be better matched to specific exercises, then the effects of exercise would be greater. A study conducted by the investigators of this study tested whether patient's characteristics could predict outcomes to two of the most common exercises for low back pain: motor control exercises or graded activity. The results showed that a simple questionnaire (Lumbar Spine Instability Questionnaire) could identify patients who responded best to either exercise. Patients with low clinical instability (measured by the questionnaire) responded best to graded activity. Patients with high clinical instability responded best to motor control exercises.These results were the first to show that better matching patients to specific exercises improves outcomes. Although these results have the potential to significantly improve the delivery of exercises for low back pain, validation of the results in a high-quality study with a large group of patients is a prerequisite to clinical implementation. The aim of this study is to conduct a randomized controlled trial comparing the effects of graded activity to motor control exercises and identify groups of respondents to these exercises. The study will also include the evaluation the costs and benefits of these interventions and the potential impact of matched treatment to patients and the health care system. The results of this study has the potential to increase the effects of exercise in low back pain and consequently lead to better patient outcomes and decreased health related costs.
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 data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Graded activity, Motor Control Exercises for low back pain?
Research shows that active therapies, including exercises that focus on motor control and stabilization, can improve pain and reduce disability in people with chronic low back pain. These exercises help strengthen back muscles and improve their function, which can lead to less pain and better movement.12345
Is exercise safe for treating low back pain?
How is the treatment of Graded Activity and Motor Control Exercises unique for low back pain?
Graded Activity and Motor Control Exercises focus on improving the coordination and control of muscles around the spine, which can help reduce pain and disability in people with low back pain. This approach is different from other treatments because it specifically targets the way muscles work together to support the back, rather than just strengthening or stretching them.110111213
Research Team
Luciana Macedo, PhD
Principal Investigator
McMaster University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults aged 18-80 with chronic low back pain lasting more than 3 months, who primarily complain of back pain and can speak English. They should have moderate to severe pain or disability and be suitable for physiotherapy as indicated by the STarT Back Tool.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either motor control exercises or graded activity over an 8-week period
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Graded activity
- Motor Control Exercises
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
McMaster University
Lead Sponsor
The University of Queensland
Collaborator
Laval University
Collaborator
University of Alberta
Collaborator
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
Collaborator
Macquarie University, Australia
Collaborator