Mind over pain: imagining exercise may ease chronic back pain

NCT ID NCT07111286

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

Summary

This study tests whether adding motor imagery (mentally rehearsing movements) to a standard 3-week rehab program helps people with chronic low back pain. 72 adults will be randomly assigned to receive either the rehab alone or rehab plus motor imagery sessions. Researchers will measure changes in back muscle endurance, pain, disability, fear of movement, and quality of life.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
motor imagery (mental rehearsal of movements)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to boost the benefits of standard rehab for chronic low back pain.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage trial with only 72 participants. The added benefit of motor imagery may be small or not statistically significant.

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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

  • CHU Dijon Bourgogne

    RECRUITING

    Dijon, France