Meditation for Chronic Low Back Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of this research study is to see how a mindfulness meditation-based intervention affects pain. Specifically, we are interested in understanding the pain-relieving brain mechanisms of mindfulness meditation-based therapy for patients with opioid-treated chronic low back pain.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it mentions that participants should be using prescription opioids for at least 3 months, so it seems you may continue those.
Is mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) safe for humans?
How is the treatment of meditation for chronic low back pain different from other treatments?
Meditation, specifically Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), is unique because it is a non-drug approach that focuses on improving mental health and quality of life through mindfulness practices, which can complement or replace medication. It is recognized as a first-line treatment for chronic low back pain by the American College of Physicians, offering an accessible and structured program over eight weeks.13456
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Meditation, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness Meditation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for chronic low back pain?
Research shows that Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are effective for managing chronic low back pain, improving pain levels, quality of life, and mental health. MBSR, in particular, has been found to help with physical function and pain bothersomeness in individuals with chronic low back pain.13578
Who Is on the Research Team?
Eric Garland, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Utah
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for men and women aged 18-65 who have chronic low back pain, score it at least a 3 out of 10 even with opioid medication, and have been on prescription opioids for over three months. It's not open to those with meditation training, current cancer, recent suicide attempts, psychosis or severe substance use disorder in the last six months.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive mindfulness meditation-based therapy to cope with pain, consisting of 8 sessions
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Meditation
Meditation is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Utah
Lead Sponsor