LOW BACK PAIN

This study tested a smartphone app called iGAME that uses game-like features to encourage people with low back pain, breast cancer, or depression to be more active and sit less. 48 adults who were sedentary joined the trial. The goal was to see if the app could help them change t…

This study tested whether having a physical therapist available in the emergency department helps people with chronic low back pain feel better and use fewer painkillers. 128 adults with low back pain were included. The approach focused on improving daily function and reducing re…

This study tested two exercise programs—MAT Pilates and a combined MIHA (electrical muscle stimulation) program—in 40 adults aged 25 to 45 with nonspecific back pain lasting at least 3 months. The goal was to see which approach better reduces pain, improves daily function, lowers…

This study looked at whether diaphragmatic breathing (deep belly breathing) can reduce pain, improve daily function, balance, and quality of life in pregnant women with low back pain. 58 pregnant women between 19-29 weeks of pregnancy who had new back pain participated. The resul…

This small pilot study compared two activities—therapeutic horticulture (gardening) and handiwork—in 16 adults with chronic low back pain. Researchers used MRI scans to measure changes in a brain region involved in pain and emotions. The goal was to see if gardening could reduce …

This study tested whether teaching veterans to do acupressure on themselves can reduce how much chronic low back pain interferes with daily life. About 300 veterans with long-term back pain took part. Half learned acupressure right away and practiced daily for 6 weeks; the other …

This study tested whether osteopathic manipulation—a gentle, hands-on technique—can reduce low back pain caused by scar tissue after a C-section. Thirty women who had a C-section at least six months ago and had low back pain took part. They received the manipulation, and their pa…

This study looked at two different physical therapy techniques—Mulligan and Maitland mobilization—to see which one helps people with long-term low back pain. 90 adults with pain lasting over 3 months took part. The goal was to measure improvements in pain, daily function, and the…

This study tested a non-invasive magnetic stimulation device on 40 adults with chronic low back pain. Participants received 10 sessions over two weeks. The goal was to see if the treatment reduces pain and improves daily function. Results are expected to help create better pain r…

This study tested whether bathing in Ma'n hot springs (balneotherapy) can improve quality of life and reduce pain in 40 adults with low back pain. Participants had low muscle power, fatigue, and a BMI over 25. The treatment aimed to strengthen core muscles and ease discomfort usi…

This study tested whether a mindfulness program could help people with chronic low back pain reduce their opioid dose and feel less pain interference. 121 adults who were already planning to taper their opioids were randomly assigned to either a mindfulness group or a standard ed…

This study looked at whether special breathing exercises could help people with long-term low back pain that has no clear cause. 40 adults aged 18-55 with at least 3 months of back pain took part. Researchers measured diaphragm thickness, pain levels, and quality of life to see i…

This study looked at whether adding dry cupping therapy to standard physiotherapy helps people with chronic low back pain more than a fake (sham) cupping treatment. 48 adults with pain lasting at least 3 months took part. The real cupping group had 10 sessions over about 3 weeks.…

This study looked at whether reformer Pilates or mat Pilates is better for women with a slipped disc in the lower back. The goal was to see which exercise type improved pain, quality of life, and fear of movement. Forty women between 25 and 60 years old took part. The results hel…

This study tested whether combining mud therapy (peloidotherapy) with exercise helps people with chronic low back pain. Forty adults were split into two groups: one received mud therapy alone, the other added core exercises. After 10 sessions, both groups felt better, but the exe…

This study tested whether a low-level electrical stimulation of nerves near the spine (DRG stimulation) can reduce chronic pain better than a placebo (sham). Twenty adults who already have a DRG stimulator implanted took part. Each person received both active stimulation and sham…

This study tested whether adding a remote app (Akina Cloud) to standard physiotherapy helps people with non-specific low back pain more than standard physiotherapy alone. Sixty adults with low back pain lasting at least 6 weeks took part. Researchers measured changes in disabilit…

This study tested whether ear acupuncture or a specific face acupuncture point can reduce sudden low back pain better than standard anti-inflammatory pills. It involved 276 active-duty military members and other eligible patients at Nellis Air Force Base. The goal was to see if t…

This study looked at whether strengthening the gluteus maximus muscle can reduce pain and improve movement in people who work desk jobs and have chronic low back pain. 40 participants did exercises or received standard care for 4 weeks. The goal was to see if glute strengthening …

This study tested three treatments for chronic low back pain in 84 adults aged 18-70: standard physiotherapy, balneotherapy (spa therapy) plus physiotherapy, and prolotherapy (dextrose injections). After four weeks, researchers measured pain, disability, mobility, quality of life…

This study tested two different physical therapy methods for people with long-term low back pain. 40 adults received standard care plus either a positional release technique or stretching exercises. Researchers measured pain, disability, and movement range before and after 4 week…

This study tested whether adding alcohol to a standard pain injection for the sacroiliac joint (a common cause of low back pain) provides better relief than the injection alone. Fifty-four adults with chronic pain lasting over 12 weeks took part. The goal was to measure pain leve…

This study tested a next-generation spinal cord stimulator that automatically adjusts to reduce uncomfortable overstimulation. 94 adults with long-term back, leg, or arm pain who already had a spinal cord stimulator implanted took part. The device was tested with and without the …

This study looked at whether teaching people with long-term low back pain about their condition (like safe movements and pain management) can improve their symptoms. 40 adults with chronic low back pain were split into two groups: one got standard care, and the other got standard…

This study tested two non-invasive treatments—low-level laser therapy and shock wave therapy—for chronic low back pain. Forty adults aged 20 to 40 with mechanical low back pain received one of the treatments. Researchers measured changes in pain and daily function using standard …

This study tested whether a 4-week neck exercise program could improve pelvic alignment and reduce low back pain in 30 adults aged 30 to 60. Participants performed simple neck movements in different directions. The goal was to see if working on the neck could help with back pain,…

This study tested a gentle hands-on therapy called Mulligan mobilization for people with low back pain caused by a specific sacroiliac joint problem. 41 adults with moderate pain took part. The therapy aims to reduce pain and improve movement without drugs or surgery.

This study tested a virtual reality device to see if it could reduce pain in adults with chronic low back pain that did not respond to medication. 122 participants used a VR environment with changing colors. The main goal was to measure pain intensity after 4 months.

This study tested two programs for adults with long-term (chronic) low back pain that has no clear cause. Both programs included exercise, behavior change, education, and mindfulness; one also added functional resistance training. The goal was to see if these approaches could red…

This study looked at whether adding vitamin D to physical therapy helps people with long-term low back pain. 200 adults from Saudi Arabia took part, including 100 with back pain and 100 healthy volunteers. Some received physical therapy alone, while others also got vitamin D supp…

This study tested a 30-day program called Positive Piggy Bank, where people with back pain did simple positive activities (like writing down good things) alongside their usual care. About 200 adults scheduled for epidural steroid injections took part. The goal was to see if this …

This study looked at whether a structured swimming program helps people recover better after spinal fusion surgery. 124 adults who had the surgery either did swimming exercises or standard rehab. The swimming started 6-8 weeks after surgery and lasted 12 weeks. Researchers measur…

This study looked at whether doing exercises at work or at home works better for office workers with low back pain. 57 adults aged 25-40 who sit for long hours took part. Researchers measured pain, daily function, and quality of life to see which approach helps more.

This study tested a sequence of core stability exercises in 40 young adults with lower crossed syndrome, a common muscle imbalance that can lead to poor posture and back pain. The exercises aimed to improve pelvic tilt, chest expansion, and core muscle function. Results may help …

This study looked at two different physical therapy methods for people with low back pain that travels down the leg (lumbar radiculopathy). Twenty adults were split into two groups: one received spinal mobilization with leg movement, and the other received nerve gliding exercises…

This study tested whether adding shock wave therapy to standard physical therapy helps people with chronic low back pain more than standard therapy alone. 69 adults with pain lasting at least 3 months took part. Researchers measured pain and disability before treatment, right aft…

This small study tested whether an augmented reality (AR) headset could help 17 adults with chronic low back pain and fear of movement. Participants did bending exercises while the AR showed them moving further than they actually were, aiming to reduce their fear. The study check…

This study tested two types of hip-strengthening exercises—elastic resistance bands and free weights—in 36 adults aged 30-60 with chronic low back pain. The goal was to see which method better reduces pain, improves hip muscle strength, and increases walking speed. Results will h…

This study looked at whether custom-made foot orthotics (shoe inserts) can reduce disability and pain in people with chronic low back pain and flat feet. 100 adults took part. The goal was to see if correcting foot posture could improve back symptoms.

This study tested whether connective tissue massage or classical massage works better for people with long-term low back pain. Thirty adults were split into three groups: one got classical massage, one got connective tissue massage, and one got only standard physical therapy. All…

This study looked at whether special hamstring exercises and taping could reduce low back pain in elite teenage rowers. 60 male rowers aged 14-18 took part. The goal was to see if changing hamstring muscle stiffness and tone could ease pain and improve rowing performance.

This study looked at whether practicing deep squat or cross-legged sitting for 20 minutes daily, 6 days a week for 6 weeks, can help adults with chronic low back pain. 36 participants were randomly assigned to one of two exercise groups or a control group. Researchers measured ch…

This study looked at whether adding diaphragmatic breathing to trunk stabilization exercises helps people with chronic low back pain more than core exercises alone. Thirty adults with at least 3 months of back pain participated. Researchers measured pain, disability, and muscle a…

This study tested different treatment plans for 749 adults with chronic low back pain. It compared physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness to see which combination works best for reducing pain and improving daily function. The goal is to help doctors choos…

This study looked at whether adding diaphragm release and special abdominal exercises to standard care can help people with long-term low back pain. 44 adults with pain lasting at least 12 weeks took part. The goal was to see if these techniques reduce pain and improve flexibilit…

This study tested two types of exercises—Sahrmann's and core stabilization—in 72 adults aged 20 to 60 with low back pain and a curved lower spine (lumbar lordosis). The goal was to see which approach better reduces pain and helps with daily activities. Participants did their assi…

This study tested a non-invasive device that sends mild electrical pulses to a nerve in the ear to see if it can reduce chronic low back pain. Researchers measured pain levels and physical disability in 70 adults over several weeks. The goal was to find a drug-free option that co…

This study looked at whether a gentle stretching technique called neurodynamic mobilization can help people with a herniated (slipped) disc in their lower back. Forty adults with low back pain for at least six weeks took part. The goal was to see if the stretches could reduce pai…

This study looked at whether adding Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) exercises to standard physical therapy helps women with chronic low back pain from a herniated disc. 44 women took part, with one group doing only standard exercises and another adding DNS moves. After …

This study looked at whether teaching bank employees about ergonomics and giving them breathing exercises could help with muscle pain, posture, and awareness. 62 office workers who sit at computers for at least 4 hours a day took part in an 8-week program led by a physiotherapist…

This study tested whether having a physical therapist in the emergency department helps people with sudden low back pain feel better and use fewer opioids. 360 adults with back pain for less than 30 days took part. The goal was to improve daily function and reduce reliance on pai…

This study tested a device called Reactiv8, implanted in the lower back to stimulate muscles and ease chronic low back pain. Twenty adults with long-lasting pain took part. Researchers measured changes in pain, disability, sleep, and brain activity to see if the implant helps imp…

This study looked at whether a supplement called palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) can help reduce pain and improve daily function in people with long-term low back pain. 120 adults with nerve-related back pain were randomly assigned to take either PEA or a placebo for a set period. Re…

This study tested if whole-body electrical muscle stimulation (WB-EMS) works as well as standard resistance training for easing long-term low back pain. 26 adults aged 40-70 with chronic pain took part. Both methods aim to strengthen back muscles without heavy weights, but WB-EMS…

This study tested two physiotherapy methods—therapeutic ultrasound and phonophoresis (ultrasound with anti-inflammatory gel)—in 60 adults aged 18–30 with chronic low back pain. All participants also received standard treatments like TENS and exercises. The goal was to see which m…

This study tested whether applying kinesio tape (a stretchy, elastic tape) to the lower back during labor can reduce back pain, improve a mother's confidence in giving birth, and increase comfort after delivery. 75 women in active labor with low back pain took part. Researchers m…

This study tested two different physical therapy techniques—Active Release Technique (ART) and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF)—to see which one better improves hamstring flexibility and reduces pain in adults with chronic low back pain. Forty participants aged 25-…

This study looked at whether gentle spinal traction (a pulling force on the spine) can reduce pain and improve movement in people with obesity and long-term low back pain. Forty-nine adults aged 35-60 took part, some with obesity and some with normal weight. They received 30 minu…

This study looked at how Veterans with chronic low back pain respond to different numbers of chiropractic visits. Over 700 Veterans were split into groups receiving either 1-5 or 8-12 visits over 10 weeks, then some continued with monthly care for 10 months. The goal was to find …

This study compared two non-drug treatments—Cognitive Functional Therapy and Kinetic Control Training—in 70 adults with chronic low back pain. Participants attended sessions three times a week for eight weeks. The goal was to see which approach better reduces pain, disability, an…

This small study tested a 12-week machine-based Pilates program in 16 active older adults (ages 55-75) with moderate low back pain. Participants did two sessions per week. The goal was to see if this approach could improve quality of life and reduce pain. Results may help design …

This study looked at whether adding kinesio taping to Pilates exercises improves core muscle thickness, pain, thinking, and mental tiredness in people with non-specific low back pain. 54 adults aged 30-55 with at least 1 month of back pain took part. The results will help underst…

This study tested whether a wearable robotic suit (called an 'exosuit') can make physical therapy more effective for people with low back pain. 44 adults aged 18 to 70 with low back pain wore the suit during therapy sessions. Researchers measured how usable and safe the suit was,…

This study tested two manual therapy techniques—Active Release Technique and Strain-Counter-Strain—in 40 men aged 30-45 with chronic low back pain lasting at least 3 months. Participants received 12 sessions over 4 weeks, and researchers measured pain and daily function. The goal…

This study looked at whether a spinal cord stimulator (a device that sends mild electrical pulses to the spine) can ease pain from a rare condition where extra fat presses on nerves in the lower back. Three adults with chronic pain for over 3 months received the implant. Research…

This study tested a special infrared patch (FIRTECH) for people with mild to moderate acute low back pain. 221 adults used the patch to see if it reduced pain and improved movement over 5 days. The goal was to find a drug-free way to ease back pain safely.

This study looked at whether adding Reformer Pilates to manual therapy helps women with long-term low back pain more than manual therapy alone. Forty women aged 25 to 55 took part. Researchers measured pain, flexibility, strength, and daily function to see which approach worked b…

This study tested whether adding dry needling (fine needles into tight muscles) to standard treatments like pain meds and physical therapy can better relieve myofascial low back pain. 156 adults with at least 3 months of pain took part. The goal was to see if the combination redu…

This study looked at whether a program combining exercise and mindfulness can reduce pain and improve strength and quality of life in adults with chronic low back pain. About 105 people took part, doing either exercise alone or exercise plus mindfulness. The goal was to see which…

This study tested whether adding motor imagery training (mentally practicing movements without actually moving) to standard exercise therapy can reduce pain and improve function in people with chronic low back pain. Thirty-two adults with persistent low back pain took part, all r…

This study tested whether using heat therapy along with exercises can reduce pain and improve daily function in people with acute low back pain. One hundred adults with recent back pain were assigned to heat alone, heat plus exercises, or a control group. The goal was to see if t…

This study tested whether platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections work better than steroid/anesthetic shots for sacroiliac joint pain. Fifty adults with confirmed SI joint pain received one of the two treatments. Researchers measured pain levels and disability scores to see which a…

This study looked at two different 4-week exercise programs for people aged 60-75 with a common spine condition called spondylolisthesis. One group did standard exercises plus physical therapy, while the other did the same exercises plus a special muscle release technique. The go…

This study tested two different ultrasound-guided pain blocks—modified thoracolumbar interfascial plane block and erector spinae plane block—to see which helps patients recover better after lumbar spine surgery. Sixty-four adults scheduled for elective lower back surgery took par…

This study tested a special type of exercise called mirror-image exercise for teenagers with long-term low back pain. Sixty teens were split into two groups: one did mirror exercises to correct posture, and the other did standard exercises. The goal was to see if mirror exercises…

This study tested whether adding a 3D myofascial release technique to standard McGill exercises helps people with non-specific low back pain more than exercise alone. 38 adults with pain and excessive lower back curve took part. Researchers measured pain, spinal curve, and pelvic…

This study measured hip and upper back movement in 60 adults with chronic low back pain to see if they are related. Participants had no specific spine disease or injury. The goal was to better understand how the body works together, not to test a treatment.

This study looked at whether teaching cadets about back pain—either warning them about injury risk or reassuring them about spine strength—affects how much weight they can lift and their confidence. Over 900 new U.S. Military Academy cadets took part during basic training in summ…

This study looked at how chronic low back pain changes the way people move. Researchers compared 70 participants—some with long-term back pain and some without—to measure their stability during bending and twisting motions. The goal was to better understand the physical effects o…

This study looked at 618 adults who had hip replacement surgery to see how many developed low back pain for the first time afterward. Researchers only observed patients and did not give any treatment. The goal was to understand the link between hip surgery and new back pain.

This study measured how the lower spine and pelvis align when sitting in a straight chair versus an ergonomic chair. Researchers compared 20 people with and without chronic back pain to see if chair type makes a difference. The goal was to understand posture, not to test a treatm…

This study surveyed 377 university students aged 18-25 who had low back pain for at least 6 months. Researchers wanted to see how many chose self-medication versus consulting a physiotherapist. The goal was to understand treatment preferences, not to test a new treatment.

This study looked at 50 people with and without low back pain to test a new tool that measures how much pressure physical therapists apply during spinal mobilization. Participants received standard back pressure techniques and had their pain thresholds and muscle activity tested.…

This study looked at whether people with low back pain walk differently than those without. 74 adults completed walking tests and answered questions about pain and activity. Researchers used motion capture to measure gait, hoping to better understand how back pain changes movemen…

This study looked at 70 elderly women with long-term low back pain to see how their balance relates to disability, fear of falling, and social life. Researchers measured balance, disability, and community participation. The goal was to understand these connections to help design …

This study translated an English questionnaire into Turkish to help athletes with low back pain describe how their pain affects daily life and sports. Researchers asked 120 elite athletes to fill out three surveys. The goal was to make sure the Turkish version is accurate and rel…

This study followed 7,300 Spanish workers for 18 months to see which personal, psychological, work-related, and clinical factors affect the risk and length of sick leave due to low back pain. Participants were employed adults getting routine checkups. The goal was to better under…

This study used special brain scans to look for inflammation in the brains and spines of 60 people with chronic low back pain. Researchers also tested whether a short course of the antibiotic minocycline could reduce that inflammation and ease pain. The goal was to better underst…

This study looked at 120 adults aged 50 and older with low back pain to see how well patient questionnaires match MRI findings of lumbar spinal stenosis. Researchers compared three common disability and pain questionnaires with MRI-based grading systems. The goal was to understan…

This study looked at whether prosthetists (the professionals who fit artificial limbs) can screen for common health problems that often go unnoticed after a leg amputation, such as poor blood flow, nerve damage, depression, and back pain. 70 adults with a below- or above-knee amp…

This study tested whether specially trained physiotherapists can safely diagnose and treat non-urgent muscle and joint problems in the emergency room, compared to standard care from doctors. Over 100 patients with conditions like back pain or sprains were randomly assigned to eit…

This study examined tissue samples from 200 people having spine surgery to see if bacteria or genetic markers are linked to chronic low back pain and bone changes. Researchers collected samples from discs, bone, and skin, and used advanced DNA sequencing to detect bacteria. The g…

This study looked at 150 people with low back pain to see if there are different types of pain based on how the body and brain process it. Researchers used body maps and pain tests to measure pain spread and sensitivity. The goal was to better understand back pain, not to test a …

This study surveyed 106 physiotherapists and student interns in Türkiye to see how closely they follow official low back pain treatment guidelines. Participants answered a short online questionnaire about their education, treatment choices, and barriers to using research evidence…

This study looked at how different physical activities impact short-term pain flares and long-term recovery in 416 veterans with low back pain. Participants reported their pain flares and disability over time. The goal was to identify which activities help or worsen back pain, gu…

This study looked at 128 women with chronic low back pain to see if the position of the uterus (tilted forward or backward) is linked to how much pain they feel and how their body processes pain. Researchers measured pain sensitivity and used questionnaires to assess pain severit…

This study tested a French version of a questionnaire called the FreBAQ, which measures how people with chronic low back pain perceive their back. The goal was to see if the French version works as well as versions in other languages. 150 adults with and without chronic low back …

This completed study looked at how oral opioids change pain sensitivity in 35 adults with chronic low back pain. Researchers measured pain responses using sensory tests to understand why some people respond differently to opioids. The goal is to help doctors tailor pain treatment…

This study looked at 103 adults with chronic low back pain to understand how body awareness, pain sensitivity, and muscle endurance are connected. Researchers measured pain intensity, disability, and central sensitization (when the nervous system becomes overly sensitive to pain)…

This study took a questionnaire that measures knowledge about low back pain and translated it into Turkish. 186 Turkish-speaking adults with back pain completed the quiz along with other surveys to check if the new version was accurate and reliable. The goal is to give doctors a …

This study looked at how back muscles use oxygen during exercise in people with chronic low back pain compared to healthy volunteers. Researchers measured muscle oxygen levels and breathing to see if pain changes muscle metabolism. The goal was to better understand why back pain …

This pilot study tested a program called STEPPT to see if it could reduce differences in how often Hispanic and non-Hispanic White patients with back or neck pain are referred to and attend physical therapy. 144 adults from a community health clinic took part. Researchers measure…