Trigger point injections for low back pain relief

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

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of trigger point injections (TPI) in treating myofascial pain syndrome in the lower back, particularly in patients presenting to the Emergency Department. The study aims to address the limitations of previous research by employing a randomized controlled design and focusing on patient-centered functional outcomes. Participants will be evaluated for pain relief and functional ability using the Modified Oswestry Disability Index, with follow-up assessments conducted 60-72 hours post-treatment. The trial seeks to provide clearer insights into the efficacy of TPI for low back pain management.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥ 18 years
2. Must have at least 1 trigger point in low back paraspinal muscles.
3. For exacerbations of chronic low back pain, the pain on presentation must be 1.5 cm above baseline pain on VAS

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Allergy or inability to take study medications.
2. New focal neurologic deficit in lower extremities.
3. Known active malignancy with bony spinal metastases.
4. Identifiable spinal, lumbosacral or hip fracture.
5. History of Fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis.
6. Current use of anticoagulation.
7. Overlying cellulitis.
8. Spinal, hip, or pelvic surgery within the past 6 months.
9. Previous administration of trigger point injections for current episode.
10. Sciatica-extending down the back of the leg to the heel.
11. Alternate identifiable cause of participant's acute pain other than myofascial or musculoskeletal pain.
12. Febrile patients.
13. Pregnant
14. Unable to understand English or otherwise unable to provide informed consent (mental handicap, inability to understand instructions, risks, or benefits), or is an at risk population (wounded warrior, resident physicians, prisoners, cadets, midshipmen, or students).

Where it's running

• Department of Emergency Medicine, Madigan Army Medical Center
  Tacoma, Washington, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Joshua J Oliver, MD — Madigan AMC
• Study coordinator: Joshua J Oliver, MD
• Email: joshua.j.oliver6.mil@mail.mil
• Phone: (360) 393-9024

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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.