This study is looking at whether adding specific lumbar (lower back) strengthening exercises to standard physical therapy helps adults with chronic low back pain (CLBP). Standard physical therapy includes manual therapy (hands-on treatment) and motor control exercises. Researchers want to see if adding these strengthening exercises improves your pain and ability to function, and if it affects how often you need other healthcare services. You might be assigned to receive standard physical therapy alone, or standard physical therapy plus the additional strengthening exercises. The study will measure your disability using the Modified Oswestry Disability Index (mODI) at several points over 26 weeks. To join, you must be a Tricare Beneficiary, aged 18-65, have had low back pain for at least 3 months without leg symptoms below the knee, and have an mODI score of 24% or higher. You also need to speak English and be available for 12 weeks of active participation.

Study design

This is a randomized controlled trial with two groups, involving 60 participants. You would be randomly assigned to either receive standard physical therapy or standard physical therapy plus lumbar strengthening.

What's involved

All participants will engage in 8 weeks of physical therapy, with 10-14 visits. Your progress will be measured at enrollment, 4, 8, 12, and 26 weeks.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Your outcomes will be measured up to 26 weeks after enrollment. Researchers will also compare healthcare utilization for 12 months after enrollment.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.