ER-Based physical therapy may ease chronic back pain and cut opioid use

NCT ID NCT05206630

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Northwestern University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome Emergencies Low Back Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

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

LOW BACK PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

Northwestern Memorial Hospital

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

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