Comparing Gokhale Method posture therapy to standard physical therapy for chronic low back pain
A Randomized Comparative Effectiveness Trial of Two Postural Therapies for People With Chronic Lower Back Pain (cLBP)-Gokhale Project
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 |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Stanford University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Redwood City, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05657964 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults aged 18-65 with chronic low back pain and specific pain and disability scores.
Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have cognitive impairments, or are recommended for surgery may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: Other studies have shown promise in using alternative therapies for chronic pain management, but the Gokhale Method specifically is less commonly tested.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Redwood City, California
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.