Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Neuroscience Education and Spinal Manipulation on Health Locus of Control in Low Back Pain
Sponsor: Centro Universitário Augusto Motta
Summary
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of combining Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) with spinal manipulation for individuals suffering from chronic low back pain. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will receive the combined intervention (neuroscience education plus spinal manipulation), while the control group will receive spinal manipulation alone. The primary goal of the researchers is to investigate whether this combined approach can help patients change their health locus of control-shifting from an external belief (that their health depends on external factors or clinicians) to an internal belief (that they have control over their own recovery and pain management). The total study period will last 3 months, consisting of 4 weeks of intervention followed by an 8-week follow-up period to assess long-term changes in pain intensity, disability, and health beliefs.
Official title: Pain Neuroscience Education Associated With Spinal Manipulation on Shifting Health Locus of Control in Patients With Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 60 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
74
Start Date
2026-07
Completion Date
2027-07
Last Updated
2026-06-10
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE)
A standardized 4-week educational program consisting of once-weekly, 30-minute face-to-face sessions led by an experienced physical therapist. The curriculum covers: 1) introduction to pain neurophysiology and modulation; 2) differentiating types of pain (nociceptive, nociplastic, neuropathic) and de-educating beliefs regarding imaging findings vs. actual tissue injury; 3) acute vs. chronic pain characteristics; and 4) movement-driven neuroplasticity, active lifestyle promotion, and minimizing nocebo beliefs (such as ideal posture, rest, and spine vulnerability).
Spinal Manipulation (SM)
High-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) spinal manipulation techniques applied to the lumbar spine based on clinical assessment. This mechanical intervention will be delivered to participants in both study arms over a 4-week period, using identical parameters of frequency, technique selection, and duration to isolate the additive effect of the educational protocol.
Locations (1)
Chiropractic Outpatient Clinic, Faculdades Reunidas da ASCE
Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil