Foundation Training and Low Back Pain

Key Information: The following is a short summary of this study to help you decide whether or not to be a part of this study. More detailed information is listed later on in this form.

Why am I being invited to take part in a research study?
We invite you to take part in a research study because you have had at least 3 episodes of self-reported low back pain (LBP) with or without radicular symptoms (e.g., a painful sensation of pins and needles or numbness down the leg) that limited daily activities in the past 6 months, meet the score required to be eligible on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (minimum of 3 out of 10), are 18-65 years old, can lay down on and stand up from the ground independently, and can read and write in English.

You are not eligible to participate if you have a medical history of spinal surgery, vertebral or pelvic fracture, spinal inflammation or tumor, osteoporosis, or autoimmune disorders. You are also not eligible to participate if you are currently taking any pain medications and/or muscle relaxers, or if you are pregnant.

Why is this research being done?
This study is being done to evaluate how Foundation Training, an exercise program, will influence function and pain perception in individuals with low back pain. This is not a new program; however more research needs to be done to determine the effect of this program on low back pain.

How long will the research last and what will I need to do?
This study will last a total of 6 weeks. Each session will last 60 minutes, and you will meet at a frequency of twice per week, for an anticipated total of 12 visits. A minimum of 10 visits is required to complete the study. During each session, you will receive 1-on-1 coaching with a trainer who is experienced in Foundation Training. All sessions will take place at the Spine and Mobility Lab located in room 266 of the Health Sciences 1 building at UCF’s main campus.

On the first session, you will be asked to complete a movement screening and some questionnaires which will give the researchers a baseline for your pain and dysfunction levels. You will complete the movement screening and questionnaire again after the exercise program has been concluded. During the training sessions, a trainer will guide and instruct you through a beginner-level exercise program that requires no equipment or previous training experience.

More detailed information about the study procedures can be found under “What happens if I say yes, I want to be in this research?”

Is there any way being in this study could be bad for me?
The risks to participation are minimal and do not exceed the risks associated with activities found in daily life.

Will being in this study help me in any way?
We cannot promise any benefits in participating. However, because Foundation Training’s primary aim is reducing pain, you might experience a relief of pain and improvement of function after the program has been completed.

What happens if I do not want to be in this research?
Your participation in this study is voluntary. You are free to withdraw your consent and discontinue participation in this study at any time without prejudice or penalty. Your decision to participate or not participate in this study will in no way affect your continued enrollment, grades, employment or your relationship with UCF or the individuals who may have an interest in this study.

Your alternative to participating in this research study is not to participate.