ER-Based physical therapy may ease chronic back pain and cut opioid use
NCT ID NCT05206630
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether starting physical therapy in the emergency department helps people with chronic low back pain. 128 adults were randomly assigned to receive either usual care or physical therapy that included exercise, education, and a home plan. The goal was to see if this approach improves daily functioning and reduces reliance on opioid pain medication.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
physical therapy
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a way to start physical therapy right in the emergency department, helping people with chronic low back pain move better and possibly use fewer painkillers.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed trial with 128 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The therapy was only available during certain hours, which limits its real-world use.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States