Improving use of a mobile app for chronic low back pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

Adults with non-specific chronic low back pain will use a mobile app that delivers pain education and clinical hypnosis. Participants are randomized to receive up to two phone calls, up to two text messages, or only the app's standard push notifications to encourage app use. The main outcome is app adherence measured through usage metrics captured by the app. Recruitment is conducted via the NOTUS trial with coordination at Neuroscience Research Australia in Sydney.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Experiencing non-specific chronic low back pain (LBP), defined as pain between the 12th rib and the buttock crease.
* LBP with or without leg pain (in case of leg pain, LBP is worse than leg pain).
* Currently consulting with a general practitioner for their non-specific chronic LBP across Australia.
* Mean pain intensity score on the Numeric Rating Scale ≥ 3/10 in the past week.
* A score of at least moderate on question 8 of the physical functioning component of the SF-36 questionnaire.
* Access to a mobile device with minimal requirements to download the study app (300MB).
* An internet connection to access the mobile app functionalities.
* Able to understand English via reading and audio materials.
* Randomised to experimental group at NOTUS Trial.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Known or suspected specific spinal (e.g., radiculopathy, fracture) or specific non-spinal non- (e.g., tumour, infection) pathology.
* Less than six months post-spinal surgery.
* Scheduled for major surgery during the program or the follow-up period.
* Known or suspected serious psychiatric condition not being treated by a health professional that would impact adherence to the trial activities.
* Known or suspected sight or hearing problems that would limit access to the intervention components (reading and listening using headphones).

Where it's running

• Neuroscience Research Australia
  Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: James H McAuley, PhD
• Email: j.mcauley@neura.edu.au
• Phone: +61293991266

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.