Nature-based Intervention for Chronic Pain in Older People
This study explores a new way to help older people (aged 65 and over) who suffer from ongoing lower back pain. It’s called a 'nature-based intervention' and involves gentle activities outdoors. Researchers want to find out if taking part in an outdoor program, like walking, gardening, and relaxing in nature, can make a positive difference to their physical abilities, such as movement and strength. They also want to see if it helps with their mood and general well-being. Participants will join weekly sessions for two hours over eight weeks, and their progress will be checked before and after to see how the program has helped them.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine living with a constant ache in your lower back – it can make everyday tasks harder and affect your mood. This study wants to help people aged 65 and older who have had this kind of lower back pain for at least three months. Importantly, this isn't pain from a specific injury or illness, but rather a common, nagging type of back discomfort that doesn't have a clear medical cause.
While regular exercise is often recommended for back pain, researchers are now looking into whether connecting with nature can add an extra boost. This study will explore combining gentle outdoor activities like walking and light exercises for your back, with other nature-based ideas such as mindful relaxation in green spaces (sometimes called 'forest bathing'), gardening, and learning more about pain. The aim is to see if this combination can improve how well older people can move, their strength and balance, and also lift their spirits and reduce stress.
The program will run for eight weeks, with participants meeting once a week for two hours in a small group. Before starting and after finishing the program, researchers will gently check in with everyone to see how they're feeling, how their pain is, and how they're managing daily activities. They’ll also ask about their experiences in interviews to understand the real-life impact of taking part. This helps the researchers get a full picture of how the program might be helping.
Key takeaways
- This study is for older people (65+) with ongoing lower back pain.
- It explores how nature-based activities (walking, gardening, relaxation) might help.
- The program involves weekly 2-hour outdoor sessions for 8 weeks.
- Aims to improve physical movement, strength, balance, and general well-being.
- No new medications are involved in this study.
- Your experiences will help researchers understand the benefits of nature for chronic pain.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for people who are 65 years of age or older, and who have experienced lower back pain for at least three months. You should also be able to walk by yourself without needing help.
To make sure this study is safe and suitable for everyone, there are a few other checks. For instance, your memory and thinking skills will be briefly assessed to ensure you can understand and participate fully. Also, a quick check will be done to see if you're generally robust and not too frail.
However, you wouldn't be able to join if you have other serious health problems, such as severe heart conditions, nerve problems, or serious muscle or bone conditions, or if you've recently had illnesses like cancer. This is because these conditions might make the study activities unsafe or make it difficult to tell if the nature program is helping with your back pain.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 65 years old or older?
- Have you had lower back pain for at least three months?
- Can you walk on your own without aid?
- Do you feel generally healthy, without severe heart, nerve, or bone conditions?
- Do you feel mentally clear and able to understand instructions?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you'll be part of a small group of about 15 people. The program lasts for eight weeks, and you'll meet once a week for two hours. During these sessions, you'll take part in gentle outdoor activities like walking, exercises to help your back, and relaxation techniques in nature. You might also try some light gardening and learn more about managing pain.
Before you start the 8-week program, and again once it finishes, you'll have some assessments. These will involve simple tests to check things like your balance and how easily you can stand up from a chair. You'll also be asked questions about your pain, mood, and how you feel about moving. Some people will also be asked to do an individual interview before and after the program to share their experiences in their own words. There are no medications involved in this study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Université du Québec à ChicoutimiVerified postcodeSaguenay, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of activities will I be doing?
You'll be doing gentle outdoor activities like walking, light exercises for your back, relaxation in nature (like 'forest bathing'), gardening, and learning about pain management.
How long does the study last?
The main part of the program lasts for 8 weeks, with one 2-hour session per week. You'll also have some assessments before it starts and after it finishes.
Will I need to take any new medicines?
No, this study does not involve taking any new medications. It focuses on gentle activities and being in nature.
What if my back pain gets worse during the study?
The activities are designed to be gentle. If you experience discomfort, you should let the study team know immediately. You can also withdraw from the study at any time.
Will I have to pay to take part?
No, you will not have to pay to participate in this research study.
How to find out more
Rubens A. da Silva, Ph.D.
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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