Chicago, ILNCT07498140Now EnrollingIRB Ready

Lumbosacral Radiculopathy Clinical Trial in Chicago, IL

Access cutting-edge lumbosacral radiculopathy treatment through this clinical trial at a research site in Chicago. Study-provided care at no cost to qualified participants.

Sponsored by Northwestern University

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Expert Care in Chicago

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IRB Approved

This study follows strict safety protocols and ethical guidelines

No-Cost Care

All study-related lumbosacral radiculopathy treatment provided free

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Check if you qualify for this lumbosacral radiculopathy clinical trial in Chicago, IL

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Why Participate?

  • No-Cost Study Care

  • Local to Chicago

    Convenient for IL residents

  • Cutting-Edge Treatment

    Access to innovative therapies

  • Expert Medical Care

    Close monitoring by specialists

  • Possible Compensation*

    For time and travel

*Compensation varies by study. Confirm details with coordinator.

Simple Process

  1. 1Submit this form
  2. 2Phone screening
  3. 3Visit Chicago site if eligible
  4. 4Begin participation

About This Lumbosacral Radiculopathy Study in Chicago

Back pain is the leading cause of disability and military medical boards across the globe. Epidural steroid injections (ESI) are the most commonly performed pain procedure in the world. There is strong evidence that the placebo effect for all pain treatments, including ESI, is greater than the intrinsic effect. The placebo effect is highly dependent on a patient's 'expectations', and therefore how the procedure is framed. This study aims to compare ESI when the procedure is framed very positively- as is often done in clinical practice vs. more neutrally (which is less commonly done in clinical practice but consistent with evidence). The placebo effect is also stronger for procedures than medications. The evidence on the benefits of ESI is highly dependent on whether it is compiled by interventional doctors who perform the procedure or non-interventional researchers. In order to determine how 'framing' a treatment affects pain outcomes, the investigative team will conduct a 3-arm randomized trial comparing positive framing of ESI, neutral framing of ESI, and medications, in patients with lumbosacral radiculopathy.

Sponsor: Northwestern University

Who Can Participate

Inclusion Criteria

Lumbosacral radicular pain based on history and physical exam (e.g. pain radiating into one or both lower extremities, sensory loss, muscle weakness, positive straight leg raising test etc.)
Duration of pain \>6 weeks
NRS leg pain score \> 4 (or if 3/10, greater or equal to back pain)
MRI evidence of spinal pathology consistent with symptoms
Candidates for ESI and pharmacotherapy

Exclusion Criteria

Untreated coagulopathy
Previous spine surgery
No MRI or non-concordant MRI study
Leg pain \> 15 years duration
Epidural steroid injection within past 2 years
Signs or symptoms of cauda equina syndrome
Previous failed trials with gabapentin and pregabalin and tricyclic antidepressants and duloxetine
Allergic reactions to contrast dye prohibiting injection (e.g., tranforaminal ESI), gabapentinoids, tricyclic antidepressants or duloxetine, and contraindications to all of the above medications
Referrals from surgery for diagnostic injections for surgical evaluation
Serious medical (e.g. congestive heart failure) or psychiatric (untreated depression) condition that might preclude optimal outcome
Inability to understand basic English

Not sure if you qualify? Submit your interest and a study coordinator will help determine your eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Is this study available in Chicago?

Yes, this clinical trial (NCT07498140) has an active research site in Chicago, IL that is currently enrolling participants.

Q:Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. This study has been reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals. You can withdraw at any time.

Q:Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time and travel expenses. Specific compensation details will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is provided at no cost.

Q:Can I leave the trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty.

Still have questions? Our study coordinators are here to help.

Lumbosacral Radiculopathy Treatment Options in Chicago, IL

If you're searching for lumbosacral radiculopathy treatment options in Chicago, IL, this clinical trial (NCT07498140) may be an excellent opportunity. Clinical trials provide access to cutting-edge treatments that aren't yet available to the general public, often at no cost to participants.

Our Chicago research site is actively enrolling participants for this clinical trial. You'll receive care from experienced lumbosacral radiculopathy specialists who are at the forefront of medical research. All study-related care, including examinations, treatments, and monitoring, is provided at no cost to qualified participants.

Looking for more options? Browse all lumbosacral radiculopathy clinical trials near you to find additional studies recruiting in your area.

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