Improving Function in Elders With Chronic Lower Back Pain

This study will determine the effectiveness of two different 12 week physical therapy programs to alleviate chronic low back pain in community-dwelling elders. Chronic low back pain is the most reported musculoskeletal problem and the third most reported problem in general among people ages 65 and older. One-fourth of people over the age of 70 demonstrate limitations in their daily function (Bressler et al 1999). With low back pain, there is an even greater risk for functional decline, disability, and placement in living situations with increased help for the occupant, i.e. assistive living communities and nursing homes (Leveille et al. 1999). Surprisingly, little research has targeted treatment of chronic pain in this age group. To learn more or to determine if you are a candidate, click here.

  • Principal Investigator
  • Co-Investigator
  • Co-Investigator
  • PhD Student
  • Research Assistant
  • Physiatrist with Spine Care Expertise
  • Geriatrician and Rheumatologist
  • Diagnostic Radiologist

REFERENCES

  1. Bressler HB, Keyes WJ, Rochon PA, Badley E. The prevalence of low back pain in the elderly. A systematic review of the literature. Spine. Sep 1 1999; 24(217): 1813-1819
  2. Leveille SG, Guralnik JM, Hochberg M, et al. Low back pain and disability in older women: independent association with difficulty but not inability to perform daily activities. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. Oct 1999; 54(10): M487-493