Exploring how Qigong affects brain function and pain in people with chronic low back pain

Identifying Brain Mechanisms Related to Body Awareness Using QiGong to Relieve Chronic Low Back Pain

NA · University of Minnesota · NCT04164225

This study is testing whether practicing Qigong can help adults with chronic low back pain feel less pain and improve their awareness of their bodies compared to traditional exercise.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Minnesota (other)
Locations1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Trial IDNCT04164225 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This investigation aims to understand the effects of Qigong practice on brain function in adults suffering from chronic low back pain (cLBP). The study will compare Qigong to traditional exercise, measuring outcomes such as pain reduction, body awareness, and proprioception. Researchers will evaluate participant recruitment, adherence to the program, and changes in brain activation related to pain perception and body awareness before and after the interventions. The findings could lay the groundwork for future clinical research in this area.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults experiencing chronic low back pain.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments, severe motor or vision deficits, or those unable to understand instructions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into non-pharmacological treatments for chronic low back pain, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, other studies have shown positive outcomes with Qigong and similar mind-body interventions for pain management.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

\- Adults with chronic low back pain

Exclusion Criteria:

* Those with cognitive problems
* Those unable to speak or understand instructions
* Those who have nerve problems, fractures, or infections
* Those who do not speak English
* Those with severe deficit in motor imagery or in vision (both are used in MRI tasks)

Where this trial is running

Minneapolis, Minnesota

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Low Back Pain

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.