Non-surgical treatment for chronic low back pain

Research on Effectiveness of Non-surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy and Outcomes With Radiographic Evaluation

Not applicable Interventional University of South Florida · NCT06525896

This study is testing a non-surgical treatment for chronic low back pain to see if it can help people feel better without needing surgery or strong pain medications.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment42 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of South Florida Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Stanford, California and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06525896 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of non-surgical spinal decompression therapy for patients suffering from chronic low back pain (LBP) caused by intervertebral disc issues. The study will involve a double-blinded, randomized design where participants will receive either the active treatment or a placebo over a 12-week period. Comprehensive assessments, including biomechanical evaluations and MRI scans, will be conducted to objectively measure outcomes. The goal is to provide a safer alternative to invasive procedures and reduce reliance on opioids for pain management.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with chronic low back pain for at least three months due to intervertebral disc pathology or related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with serious spinal pathologies, other chronic pain conditions, or those unable to comply with treatment schedules may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could offer a non-invasive solution for chronic low back pain, improving patients' quality of life and reducing dependence on opioids.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise with non-surgical spinal decompression therapies, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

\- Diagnosis of chronic LBP for a minimum of 3 months caused by pathological intervertebral disc, degenerative disc disease, posterior facet syndrome, and/or sciatica.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Known serious spinal pathology (e.g., vertebral fracture, tumor, osteoporosis)
* Evidence of central nervous system involvement of pain
* Other chronic pain conditions
* Pregnancy
* Spinal fusion
* Inability to comply with treatment schedule
* Inability to complete MRIs (e.g., claustrophobia, pacemaker, ferromagnetic implants)

Where this trial is running

Stanford, California and 1 other locations

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 Low Back PainHerniation, DiscSciatic RadiculopathyIntervertebral Disc Stenosis of Neural CanalIntervertebral Disc Injurydecompressionnon-surgicalspine
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.