Efficacy of the McKenzie method in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain: a randomised placebo controlled trial

• Grant number: 14/50638-4
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: October 01, 2015
• End date: September 30, 2017
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Agreement: University of Sydney
• Mobility Program: SPRINT - Projetos de pesquisa - Mobilidade
• Principal Investigator: Leonardo Oliveira Pena Costa
• Grantee: Leonardo Oliveira Pena Costa
• Principal researcher abroad: Christopher G. Maher
• Institution abroad: University of Sydney, Australia
• Host Institution: Pró-Reitoria de Pós-Graduação, Pesquisa e Extensão. Universidade Cidade de São Paulo (UNICID). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 13/20075-5 - Efficacy of the McKenzie Method in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain: a randomised placebo controlled trial, AP.R

Abstract

Low back pain is an important public health problem. The McKenzie method has been extensively used as an active intervention to treat patients with chronic low back pain. Although the McKenzie method has been compared with other active interventions, the efficacy of this method in the treatment of patients with chronic low back pain is unclear. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of the McKenzie method versus placebo in patients with chronic low back pain and if the derangement syndrome is a predictor of outcome or to response to treatment. Design: Prospectively registered, two-arm, randomized placebo-controlled trial with a blinded assessor. Eligibility criteria: One hundred and forty eight chronic non-specific low back pain patients. Interventions: An eight-week treatment program (10 treatment sessions) based upon the McKenzie method principles or Placebo (detuned ultrasound and shortwave therapy). Due to ethical issues, patients from both groups will also receive an educational booklet based on the European guidelines of low back pain. Measurements: Clinical outcomes (pain intensity, disability, kineslophoba and global impression of recovery) will be obtained at for how up appointments after receiving treatment and at 3, 6 and 12 months after randomization. Results: It is expected that patients treated with the McKenzie method will show a greater clinical improvement compared with patients treated with placebo. These results may assist physiotherapists to make their clinical decisions. (AU)