NCT06544525 · Brooke Army Medical Center
Is Conditioned Pain Modulation Predictive of Clinical Improvement in Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain?
What this study is about
Conditioned pain modulation (CPM) a measure of the effectiveness of the descending pain pathway and therefore a measure of the body's ability to perform endogenous analgesia. In subjects with normal function of the descending pain pathway, the net-effect during CPM testing is anti-nociceptive, or inhibition of the ascending pain pathway.
View original scientific description
Conditioned pain modulation (CPM) a measure of the effectiveness of the descending pain pathway and therefore a measure of the body's ability to perform endogenous analgesia. In subjects with normal function of the descending pain pathway, the net-effect during CPM testing is anti-nociceptive, or inhibition of the ascending pain pathway. In those with impaired descending pain pathway function, the response to CPM testing is pro-nociceptive, indicating that the body is unable to inhibit the pain signal, or may even amplify it. There is literature that supports the presence of impaired CPM, and therefore impaired descending pain pathway function, in numerus chronic pain conditions, including low back pain. Impaired descending pain pathway function may be contributing to this chronic pain presentation. This study will give us information on whether a typical physical therapy plan of care is able to improve impaired CPM, and if CPM values are predictive of improvement in physical therapy.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- DEERS eligible
- English speaking
- Age 18-64 years
- ODI baseline ≥25%
- NPRS baseline ≥3/10
- Low back pain symptoms greater than 3 months
- Must be able to commit to at least six weeks of physical therapy interventions
Exclusion criteria
- Serious spinal pathology (acute fracture, active cancer, inflammation, inflammatory arthropathy)
- Low back pain symptoms radiating below the knee
- Diagnosed neurological disease including traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, chronic regional pain syndrome, and fibromyalgia.
- History spinal surgery
- Currently under litigation related to low back pain
- Currently going through Medical Evaluation Board (MEB)
- Retiring or separating from the military within a year
Where
- Fort Sam Houston, Texas
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 23, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations