Using lumbar braces in the emergency department for low back pain relief
Lumbar Brace Deployment in The Emergency Department for Benign Low Back Pain: Effectiveness and Impact on Pain, Spine Function, Analgesic Use and Community Resources
This study is testing whether using lumbar braces can help adults with low back pain in the emergency department feel better without relying on painkillers.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 152 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Alberta Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Perth) |
| Trial ID | NCT03829631 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of lumbar braces as a non-pharmacological intervention for patients presenting with low back pain in emergency departments. It aims to reduce reliance on painkillers, particularly opioids, by providing a supportive device that minimizes spinal movement and potentially alleviates pain. The study will involve patients aged 18 to 65 who are ambulatory and able to understand English, and it will take place in emergency departments in Edmonton. The research seeks to establish a more effective pain management strategy that could lead to better patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 65 with low back pain who are able to ambulate and understand English.
Not a fit: Patients with low back pain due to systemic diseases, significant spinal issues, or those who are pregnant will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide patients with effective pain relief without the risks associated with painkiller use.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in primary-care settings have shown promising results for the use of lumbar braces in managing low back pain, indicating potential for success in this emergency department setting.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged between 18 and 65 years * Ambulatory * Able to read and understand English * Living in Edmonton * Presenting to an emergency department Exclusion Criteria: * Back pain due to systemic or specific disease such as known cancer, spinal infection, fracture, or ankylosing spondylitis * Pregnancy * Significant compression of the spinal cord/nerves * Previous back surgery * On-going workers' compensation or litigation cases
Where this trial is running
Perth
- Royal Perth Hospital — Perth, Australia (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Vahid Abdollah, PhD — University of Alberta
- Study coordinator: Vahid Abdollah, PhD
- Email: v.abdollah@ualberta.ca
- Phone: 7804928889
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.