Mindfulness-based Dance/Movement Therapy for Chronic Low Back Pain

Mindfulness-based Dance/Movement Therapy for Chronic Low Back Pain

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and credibility of a mindfulness-based dance/movement therapy (M-DMT) protocol that is delivered online; to assess and improve methodological procedures for conducting a randomized controlled trial (RCT) test of M-DMT; and to demonstrate proof of principle by gathering information about the process of change between M-DMT and a control condition.

This is the first study to address the potential of M-DMT as a creative, non-opioid intervention for chronic back pain. Therefore, the findings of this study will provide important methodological and protocol data and substantive pilot data necessary for the next phase of this line of research, namely a fully powered RCT to evaluate efficacy and treatment mechanisms of action. Data obtained as part of this study will be instrumental for informing the systematic evaluation of M-DMT for chronic back pain care.

Inclusion Criteria

• age > 18 years
• current non-specific cLBP that has persisted at least 3 months, and has resulted in pain on at least half the day in the past 6 months
• proficient in English
• average pain severity and interference ratings >3/10 on a 0-10 numeric rating scale
• if taking pain medication(s), dosage must be stabilized for a minimum of 3 months
• patients agree not to seek additional therapies for the duration of this study beyond those already included in their current treatment regimen or new treatments prescribed by their physician
• naïve to DMT.
• those who have adequate computer literacy (e.g., know how to use a computer to perform basic tasks such as open/send emails, use internet, fill-out online surveys) and access to the virtual delivery format (i.e., internet service and a personal computer device such as laptop, desktop, tablet PC).

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnancy
• severe and/or progressive medical, neurological, substance dependence within the last 6 months or severe mental illness (i.e., psychosis, mania) that would prevent active participation
• cognitive impairment that prohibits informed consent
• back surgery in the last 6 months
• low back pain attributable to a recognizable, known specific pathology (e.g. infection, tumor, osteoporosis, fracture, structural deformity, inflammatory disorder, radicular syndrome, or cauda equina syndrome
• wheelchair-bound or unable to move without assistance
• involvement in impending litigation or judgment for disability or worker's compensation.