Mind over back pain: new study tests mental training for relief

NCT ID NCT06859645

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Istanbul Bilgi University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested whether adding motor imagery training—mentally practicing movements without actually moving—to standard telerehabilitation exercise could help people with chronic low back pain. Thirty-two adults with persistent pain were randomly assigned to either exercise alone or exercise plus daily motor imagery for eight weeks. Researchers measured pain, disability, fatigue, anxiety, and physical function before, after, and at a 12-week follow-up.

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 training
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simple, home-based way to reduce pain and improve daily function for people with chronic low back pain.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with only 32 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The benefit of adding motor imagery to exercise is still unproven.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

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

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Locations

Istanbul Bilgi University

Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)

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