How stress affects low back pain and disability in older adults

Stress Reactivity and Low Back Pain in Older Adults: Influences on Disability (ReLOAD)

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10912565

This study is looking at how stress affects low back pain in older adults and aims to find ways to help them manage stress better, which could improve their pain and keep them more active.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10912565 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between stress reactivity and low back pain in older adults, focusing on how stress responses can influence disability. The study aims to identify and measure stress reactivity through laboratory tests and patient feedback, while also exploring psychological factors that may contribute to pain and disability. By developing a biobehavioral intervention, the research seeks to help older adults manage their stress and improve their physical function, ultimately reducing the risk of disability associated with low back pain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing low back pain and high levels of stress reactivity.

Not a fit: Patients with low back pain who do not exhibit high stress reactivity or those with other unrelated chronic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management strategies for low back pain in older adults, enhancing their quality of life and reducing disability.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in addressing stress reactivity in chronic pain conditions, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.