Clinical Research Directory

Tailored Pain Guide (TPG) Study

This research is studying whether changing an individual's behaviors may have an impact as a treatment or outcome for chronic low back pain. This research will try to understand how much an electronic, self-management website like PainGuide can help participants. The study hypothesizes that tailored digital interventions (plus using PainGuide) will demonstrate greater improvement in pain interference.

Photobiomodulation for Lower Back Pain Post Spinal Fusion and Decompression Surgery

After spinal fusion and decompression surgery there is a possible risk of developing chronic back pain. After surgery there is typically inflammation around the operation site and this inflammation can be painful and debilitating to patients. Many possible treatment plans have been incorporated to assist the patient with recovery - notably medications, physical therapy, and braces. However, few studies have looked at laser diodes that utilize high-power laser lights that are aimed at decreasing pain and inflammation. Investigators aim to look compare patients using a back brace with laser diodes within versus those who wear a normal brace used as a placebo. Investigators will also assess the patient's surgical wound to monitor the progression of wound healing while using the brace.

Assessment of Usability and Satisfaction With a Take-home Device Presenting Sound and Body Stimulation for Back Pain

Pain symptoms can have a variety of ways to be treated, from medications to physical therapy, with several options being available to patients. However, no one treatment may work for all people who experience pain, especially cLBP. The purpose of this study is to measure the compliance, usability, and satisfaction of an at-home, multi-modal stimulation device in a diverse population of people with chronic lower back pain (cLBP). The multi-modal device will include a combination of electrical stimulation, auditory stimulation, and integrative-health techniques, including mindfulness breathing, health coaching, and reflective journaling. The multi-modal device creation is based on prior knowledge in lower back pain treatment, which includes electrical stimulation of the back (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator or TENS) and integrative health modalities. In isolation, these treatments are only somewhat effective in reducing symptoms. This pilot study will involve participants who experience cLBP as we investigate a novel at-home, multi-modal device design. The main objective of the pilot usability study is to examine compliance to the intended use of the multi-modal device and approach, as well as protocol feasibility, and satisfaction with the settings and design.

Efficacy of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) and Phototherapy for Patients With Chronic Lower Back Pain

The purpose of the research study entitled "Efficacy of Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) and Phototherapy for Patients with Chronic Lower Back Pain" is to investigate the hypothesis that combined treatment with both osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) and phototherapy will provide greater pain relief for patients with chronic lower back pain, as compared with standard medical management or either treatment alone.

Assessing the Functional Movement Screen as a Reliable Physical Therapy Discharge Criteria for Chronic Lower Back Pain Patients

Overview of Research Design and Objectives This study is a prospective, concurrent cohort study aimed at evaluating the reliability of the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) as a discharge criterion for patients with chronic lower back pain (LBP) undergoing physical therapy. The primary objective is to identify a benchmark FMS score that correlates with a low risk of recurrence and high levels of functional performance post-discharge. Specific Aims and Hypotheses The study specifically aims to: Assess the effectiveness of FMS in determining discharge readiness for chronic LBP patients. The hypothesis is that a specific threshold score on the FMS can reliably indicate a patient\'s readiness for discharge, reducing the risk of recurrence and ensuring better long-term functional outcomes. Rationale for the Study Chronic LBP is a prevalent condition requiring multidisciplinary management. The FMS, widely used in athletic and military settings, has potential utility in clinical management of chronic LBP, particularly in establishing discharge criteria. This study seeks to explore this potential, addressing a gap in evidence regarding discharge benchmarks for chronic LBP patients. Procedures The study involves 50 chronic LBP patients from the Texas Back Institute. Participants will undergo their standard physical therapy regimen, supplemented by regular FMS assessments to evaluate discharge readiness. Assessments include a series of functional tasks, with scores ranging from 0 to 3 for each task, culminating in a total possible score of 21. Risks and Anticipated Benefits Risks are minimal, akin to those in low-intensity exercises. Benefits include improved discharge criteria for chronic LBP patients, potentially enhancing long-term outcomes. All procedures adhere to Good Clinical Practice and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act guidelines. This study\'s risks include potential loss of confidentiality, psychological, and physical risks. Physical risks are minimal, similar to those in low-intensity exercises like squatting and lunging. To protect confidentiality, data will be managed in compliance with Good Clinical Practice and HIPAA guidelines, with encryption and secure storage. Psychological and physical risks are mitigated through thorough instruction, practice trials, and breaks for participants. Additionally, trained study personnel can terminate a participant\'s involvement at any point for safety reasons. Outcomes The study will report on the average FMS score correlating with discharge readiness and the variance in scores across different functional assessments. Statistical Analysis Data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and repeated measures ANOVA or Friedman Test, with a significance level set at α=0.05. Completion Time The study is expected to complete enrollment within two years. Abbreviations and Terms LBP: Lower Back Pain FMS: Functional Movement Screen PROM: Patient-Reported Outcome Measures VAS: Visual Analog Scale ODI: Oswestry Disability Index ANOVA: Analysis of Variance PROMIS: Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System®