Improving access to physical therapy for chronic low back pain in rural areas using telehealth.
Improving Function and Reducing Opioid Use for Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain in Rural Communities through Improved Access to Physical Therapy using Telerehabilitation
This study is looking to make physical therapy easier for people with chronic low back pain living in rural areas by using online sessions, so you can get the help you need without worrying about travel or finding a therapist nearby.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11163083 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the accessibility of physical therapy for patients suffering from chronic low back pain (LBP) in rural communities through the use of telerehabilitation. By leveraging technology, the project seeks to overcome barriers such as transportation and provider availability that often prevent patients from receiving necessary care. The approach involves providing remote physical therapy services, which can help improve pain management and reduce reliance on opioids. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of this method in improving patient outcomes and overall quality of life.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in rural communities who experience chronic low back pain.
Not a fit: Patients with acute back pain or those who do not reside in rural areas may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce chronic pain and opioid use among patients in rural areas.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that telerehabilitation can effectively improve access to care and patient outcomes, indicating a promising approach for this population.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Skolasky, Richard L. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Skolasky, Richard L.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.