Cognitive Muscular Therapy for Low Back Pain

The primary aim of this study is to adapt Cognitive Muscular Therapy so that it can be used to manage chronic low back pain. A secondary aim is to understand the potential therapeutic benefit of this intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:Above 18 years oldSpeak and understand English sufficient to read the information sheet and sign the consent formAbility to walk without an assistive device for at least 100m (to ensure patients have sufficient mobility to be able to complete the intervention)Low back pain for at least three months' durationCurrently scoring 4 or more on the Roland disability scaleExclusion Criteria:Dementia or other major cognitive impairmentRed flags (specific causes of LBP, such as acute disc prolapse with radicular pain, or other serious pathology)PregnancyHistory of serious spinal injury (fractures, spinal cord injury)BMI >33 (as EMG measurement is not possible in people with higher BMI)Acute low back pain (Onset less than 3 months)Any systemic inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritisAny balance disorders which may increase the risk of a fall