Examining the effects of yoga on chronic back pain

A Prospective, Randomized-controlled Study to Evaluate the Effect of a Standardized Yoga Practice on Chronic Back Pain

Not applicable Interventional NYU Langone Health · NCT04270617

This study is testing if a 6-week yoga program can help people with chronic back pain feel better compared to regular treatments over six months.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNYU Langone Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT04270617 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research investigates whether a standardized 6-week yoga program is more effective than usual conservative therapies for treating chronic back pain over a period of 6 months. Chronic low back pain is a significant health issue that often leads to lost workdays and increased healthcare costs, and current treatment options are limited. The study aims to provide further evidence on the efficacy of yoga as a treatment modality, following recent guidelines that have recognized yoga as a potential therapy for this condition.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals experiencing chronic back pain lasting at least 3 months who are willing and able to participate in the yoga program.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions requiring surgical intervention or those with significant medical comorbidities that prevent participation in yoga may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could offer a non-pharmacological treatment option for patients suffering from chronic back pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for yoga as a treatment for chronic back pain, indicating that this approach is gaining recognition in the medical community.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Willingness to and ability to participate in study procedures
* Chronic back pain (pain above the gluteal cleft of at least 3 months duration)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Indication for surgery (i.e., fracture, infection, scoliosis, spondylolisthesis)
* Cardiac, pulmonary or other medical comorbidities that preclude participation in yoga practice

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Chronic Back Pain
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.