Machine-Based Pilates on Quality of Life and Low Back Pain in Older Adults (NCT07596602) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Machine-Based Pilates on Quality of Life and Low Back Pain in Older Adults
Portugal16 participantsStarted 2024-10-21
Plain-language summary
Chronic low back pain is one of the most prevalent and debilitating conditions among older adults, often compromising physical function and overall quality of life. Structured physical exercise, particularly the Pilates method, is widely recommended for managing this condition. However, existing literature primarily focuses on younger populations using mat-based group classes. This pilot study utilizes an exploratory mixed-methods design to investigate the feasibility and preliminary outcomes of a 12-week individualized, machine-based Classical Pilates program on quality of life and low back pain in active older adults (aged 55 to 75 years). Participants will complete 24 individual sessions (twice a week). The aim is to assess changes in physical domains of quality of life and perceived low back pain intensity, while gathering qualitative contextual insights on body awareness and psychosocial well-being.
Who can participate
Age range
55 Years – 75 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Aged between 55 and 75 years.
* Physically active in daily routines.
* No previous experience with machine-based Pilates.
* Presenting with moderate disability (Oswestry Disability Index = 21% to 40%) caused by low back pain.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Absolute contraindications to physical exercise.
* Severe spinal pathologies (e.g., hernias requiring surgery, severe osteoporosis, idiopathic scoliosis).
* Previous or scheduled spinal surgeries.
* Severe disability (Oswestry Disability Index \> 41%).
* Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
* Recent stroke or myocardial infarction.
* Uncontrolled hypertension.
* Active oncological treatment.
* Physical therapy treatment for low back pain within the six months prior to the study.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in Quality of Life
Timeframe: Baseline (Week 0) and Post-Intervention (Week 13).