Virtual reality plus pain science education for chronic low back pain
Official title: Potential of Virtual Reality in Primary Chronic Low Back Pain
Run by Aveiro University · NCT07742111 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether adding virtual reality with pain education can help adults with chronic low back pain see less pain and worry less about movement.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Aveiro University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Amarante) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | October 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | October 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | August 3, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07742111 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with primary chronic low back pain (≥18 years) who report moderate pain (≥4/10) and mild fear of movement, without excluded conditions.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with active spinal pathology, significant comorbidities, pregnancy, psychiatric disorders, or contraindications to exercise may not benefit from this approach.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This single-case experimental design enrolls adults with primary chronic low back pain to undergo a 3-week program combining pain science education and virtual reality. Participants complete questionnaires and a daily diary before and during the intervention, with sessions every 1–2 days lasting 30–45 minutes. The study aims to see if the combined approach reduces pain intensity and improves psychological factors like catastrophizing and fear of movement, while also gathering participant views on integrating VR into care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience reduced pain and improved coping with movement and daily activities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in pain science education and VR has shown promise, but this exact combination in primary chronic low back pain is still being explored.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals with primary chronic low back pain aged ≥18 years, who present a moderate pain intensity (≥4 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale) and a mild level of fear of movement. Exclusion Criteria: * have a diagnosis of spondylolisthesis or lumbar spinal stenosis; * are experiencing an exacerbation of low back pain symptoms at the time of screening; * present with constant and widespread nonspecific pain; * are in an active phase of rheumatoid arthritis; * have a progressive neurological disease; * are currently pregnant or within 6 months postpartum; * have a diagnosed psychiatric disorder; * have a malignant disease; * have serious cardiac conditions; * have contraindications to physical exercise in general;
Where it's running
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General Community
Amarante, Portugal Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Anabela Silva, PhD
- Email: asilva@ua.pt
- Phone: +351 234247119
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.