Can a quick PT session in the ER ease back pain and cut opioid use?
NCT ID NCT04921449
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether having a physical therapist treat people with sudden low back pain right in the emergency department can help them feel better and use fewer painkillers. 360 adults with back pain for less than 30 days took part. Some got usual care (medication, advice), while others also got physical therapy including exercises and education. The goal was to see if this approach improves daily function and reduces opioid use.
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 (exercise, education, home exercise plan)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a way to reduce pain and disability without relying on opioids for people with sudden low back pain.
What could go wrong
This is a completed trial, but the approach may not work for everyone. It was only tested in one hospital during weekday hours, so results may not apply to all settings.
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