Clinical trial for Pain, Chronic
Official title Offset Mechanisms in Evaluation of Lumbar Medial Branch Blocks
ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05961800
What this study is testing
- What it's testing
- The study aims to find out whether central nervous system mechanisms that reduce pain are linked to the pain relief seen after a lumbar medial branch block.
- Who it's for
- Adults who have chronic lower‑back facet joint pain.
- What's involved
- Participants will receive a lumbar medial branch block (an injection near the nerves that supply the facet joints) and will undergo tests that measure how their nervous system controls pain.
A plain-language read of the study's public ClinicalTrials.gov listing. The study team confirms the details.
Who can take part
Ages 18 and older
You may be able to join if
- Scheduled for lumbar MBB in UPMC Pain Management clinics
- Age \> 18 years old
- Predominantly axial chronic low back pain at least 3 months on a daily basis
- Must meet the minimum criteria for cognitive function using the PROMIS 2-item cognitive screener (\>3)
- Low back pain intensity of \> 3/10
You likely can't join if
- History of spine surgery at the level of the lumbar MBB
- Active worker's compensation or litigation claims
- New pain and/or psychiatric treatments within 2 weeks of enrollment
- Not fluent in English and/or not able to complete the questionnaires
- Any clinically unstable systemic illness that is judged to interfere with the study
See the full eligibility criteria
- Scheduled for lumbar MBB in UPMC Pain Management clinics
- Age \> 18 years old
- Predominantly axial chronic low back pain at least 3 months on a daily basis
- Must meet the minimum criteria for cognitive function using the PROMIS 2-item cognitive screener (\>3)
- Low back pain intensity of \> 3/10
- Willing and able to receive study-related phone calls
- History of spine surgery at the level of the lumbar MBB
- Active worker's compensation or litigation claims
- New pain and/or psychiatric treatments within 2 weeks of enrollment
- Not fluent in English and/or not able to complete the questionnaires
- Any clinically unstable systemic illness that is judged to interfere with the study
The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where it is enrolling
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
Compensation & support
This study's listing mentions compensation or reimbursement.
No amount is published here because ClinicalTrials.gov has no reliable field for payment or travel support. Ask the study team what's actually covered (payment for your time, travel, parking, or other study costs), and never join a trial for the compensation alone.
Questions & answers
Do participants get paid in this trial?
This study's listing includes signals that participants may be compensated or receive a stipend. Amounts vary and are set by the study team, so confirm the details with them.
Is it free to join, and do I need insurance?
Searching and applying through BridgeMD is free. In clinical trials the study-related treatment and visits are generally provided at no cost to you. You usually don't need insurance to take part, but confirm specifics with the study team.
How long does this study last?
The listing doesn't state an exact length. The study team walks you through the schedule and number of visits before you decide to enroll.
Who can join this trial?
This study is enrolling all sexes, 18 years and older. The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where is this trial taking place?
This study is enrolling now at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States. Enter your location above to see the nearest enrolling site and check your eligibility.
Explore other conditions
BridgeMD is an information and trial-matching tool that is independent of the study sponsor. Details come from ClinicalTrials.gov. The study team decides eligibility, and your own doctor gives medical advice.