Comparing Gokhale Method posture therapy to standard physical therapy for chronic low back pain
Official title: A Randomized Comparative Effectiveness Trial of Two Postural Therapies for People With Chronic Lower Back Pain (cLBP)-Gokhale Project
Run by Stanford University · NCT05657964 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if the Gokhale Method for improving posture can help people with chronic low back pain more than regular physical therapy does.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Stanford University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Redwood City, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2030 |
| Registry record updated | January 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05657964 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults aged 18-65 with chronic low back pain and specific pain and disability scores.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, have cognitive impairments, or are recommended for surgery may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study compares the effectiveness of the Gokhale Method posture therapy for managing chronic low back pain (LBP) against standard physical therapy that includes posture training. It aims to evaluate not only the effectiveness of these two approaches but also the usability and adherence of an online intervention delivered through a smartphone app. A total of 100 participants will be recruited from Stanford PMR clinics and randomized into two groups to receive either the Gokhale Method or standard physical therapy. Participants will complete various questionnaires to assess their demographics, pain levels, functional status, and disability before and after the intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a new, effective approach to managing chronic low back pain that may improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using alternative therapies for chronic pain management, but the Gokhale Method specifically is less commonly tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18-65 years old (working age population). * NPRS score 4 or more for lower back. * RMDQ score 7 and above. * English speaking population * Need insurance Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy (as stated by patient) * With cognitive or communication impairment . * Patients recommended for surgery * Participating in other form of intervention. * Prior history of chronic neurological disorder that impacts mobility (e.g. stroke, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis) * Fibromyalgia * Underwent PT treatment for low back pain in the last 6 months * Underlying mental disorder/untreated depression or presence of neurologic disorders such as MS, Alzheimers, Parkinsons
Where it's running
-
Outpatient Surgery Center/Stanford Spine Clinic
Redwood City, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Matthew Smuck, MD — Stanford PM&R Orthopedic surgery
- Study coordinator: Ruopeng Sun, PHD
- Email: rusun@stanford.edu
- Phone: 6507217600
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.