Can pool workouts beat gym exercises for back pain?

NCT ID NCT06874881

First seen Jun 27, 2026 ยท Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at whether aquatic (water) exercises or land exercises work better for adults with chronic low back pain. Thirty-two people aged 18 to 65 took part in a 12-week supervised program. Researchers measured pain, daily function, sleep quality, and quality of life to see which type of exercise helped more.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only โ€” not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
exercise (aquatic and land-based)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could show that water-based exercises are a helpful option for managing chronic low back pain, potentially offering a gentler alternative to land exercises.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed study with only 32 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Exercise benefits can vary widely, and the study does not test a drug or cure.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • St. Leonard building, The University of Edinburgh

    Edinburgh, EH8 8AQ, United Kingdom

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