LBP: Low Back Pain Research Study (Control)

STUDY BASICS

If in the last 12 months, you have not experienced low back pain for which you sought treatment for, you may be able to participate in a research study to help better understand the factors that contribute to low back pain. This study involves two in-person visits. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

Pain in the lower back is a common problem and a leading cause of disability, but the causes of low back pain are not fully understood. The purpose of this study is to better understand the factors that contribute to low back pain. Researchers hope their findings may lead to better ways to treat low back pain in the future. 

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Eligible participants:

• Are 40-49 or 70-89 years old
• Have not sought treatment for low back pain in the last 12 months 
• Have not had spine surgery
• Have not had hip or knee surgery in the last 24 months
• Do not have a history of ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, psoriatic arthritis, or lupus
• Are not currently in treatment for any cancer 
• Are not currently pregnant
• Willing to provide saliva, urine, and blood samples 
• Able to speak and understand English 
• No contraindication to MRI
• Have received care at a UPMC facility at least once, for any reason

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Participants will be asked to attend two in-person visits. An on-site visit where you will wear motion sensors, complete several questionnaires and physical performance base tests. The second visit includes basic spinal MRI. Participants will also wear motion sensors for a week and answer daily questions about back pain via a mobile application.