Yoga and Qigong for Elderly Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain

Yoga and Qigong for Elderly Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain

The objective of this study is to evaluate whether yoga or qigong therapy is effective in treating low back pain in elderly patients compared to no therapy (waiting list control). The secondary aim is to compare yoga and qigong.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men and women ≥ 65 years of age
• Chronic low back pain since 6 months at least
• Functional Rating Index (FRI) ≥ 2 last 7 days
• Informed consent form signed

Exclusion Criteria:

• Disc prolapse with acute neurological symptoms
• Previous spinal operations
• Severe organic or psychiatric disease conditions, not allowing to participate in the trial
• Use of opioids
• Drug- and alcohol-addiction
• Participation in another clinical trial within the last 6 months
• Participation in yoga or qigong training within the last 12 months
• Planned physical therapy within study duration