Back pain sufferers wanted for study

 By Natasha Egan

Researchers are looking for 300 volunteers with low back pain for a Perth-based study investigating why the condition persists for some people.

Physiotherapists and clinical researchers from Curtin University are aiming to determine whether people suffering from low back pain can be characterised with a goal of using the information to tailor treatment.

The study is being led by Professor Peter O’Sullivan, a professor of musculoskeletal physiotherapy, who reports that 80 per cent of Australians suffer low back pain at some time in their life. 

“The low back pain research aims to understand if particular groups can be characterised using a range of laboratory and clinical tests. This information may help inform more targeted treatments for such groups,” Prof O’Sullivan said. 

While most back pain originates from strains and sprains, which usually heal, and the pain resolves, in some cases it continues and is referred to as persistent or chronic back pain, he said.

“This is difficult to treat and there are few effective long-term treatments.” 

Furthermore, it is not clear why some people experience persistent pain, Prof O’Sullivan said. 

“Research suggests factors include how the person moves, their mood and pain sensitivity thresholds. 

“There is not a strong link between what we see on x-rays or scans and the pain people experience,” he said.

Over 80 participants have already been tested and the research team is looking for more people with low back pain to take part in the study, which will continue at least until the end of the year.

Participants will be asked to complete questionnaires about the effects of pain on their daily lives, on mood and feelings. 

Volunteers will also need to visit Curtin for one laboratory clinical testing session, which will explore sensitivity to various sensations, such as heat, cold and pressure; how effective the body’s inbuilt pain relief systems are; and perception about their pain. 

Participant eligibility

Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Martin Rabey from Curtin’s School of Physiotherapy said the age cut-off for volunteer particpants is 70-years-old.

And people with dominant leg pain are not eligible to take part.

As many people with back pain also suffer leg pain, the researchers have decided that the split must be 60 per cent back pain to 40 per cent leg pain or higher in favour of back pain, Mr Rabey said.

Due to the nature of the laboratory tests, people with wrist pain are also excluded. And anyone with a diagnosed neurological condition, such as a stroke, and women who are pregnant are also disqualified from the study. 

People interested in taking part in the research or finding out more should contact Martin Rabey from Curtin’s School of Physiotherapy by emailing martin.rabey@postgrad.curtin.edu.au or telephoning 0487 007 116.