Yoga, Education, and Nidra (YEN) for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Pilot Study on Pain Modulation, Well-Being, and Sleep

Yoga, Education, and Nidra (YEN) for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Pilot Study on Pain Modulation, Well-Being, and Sleep

The purpose of this study is to compare the impact of yoga, pain education, and yoga nidra with pain acceptance intention to yoga, pain education, and relaxing music on pain intensity, well-being, and sleep quality. This is a pilot study trial of individuals with chronic low back pain. Participants will attend two sessions in the laboratory (week 1 and week 8) and complete their assigned intervention 2 x per week for 6 weeks at home. Participants will be randomized to either receive yoga postures targeting the low back, pain education, and yoga nidra with pain acceptance intention and motor imagery or yoga postures targeting the low back, pain education, and relaxing music.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Chronic pain in lower back that has lasted for over three months
• Pain intensity rated as 3/10 or higher in the past 24 hours (0=no pain, 10=worst pain imaginable)

Exclusion Criteria:

• non-English speaking
• systemic medical conditions that affect sensation (such as uncontrolled diabetes)
• History of surgery or fracture within the past six months
• any blood clotting disorders (such as hemophilia)
• any contraindication to the application of ice (blood pressure > 140/90 mmHg, cold urticaria, cryoglobulinemia, paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria, circulatory compromise)
• Exceed pressure and heat sensory thresholds
• Unable to access the internet or email
• Pregnant
• Unable to exercise without medical clearance (assessed on PAR-Q+ on first visit)