Edwards Air Force Base

Researchers are evaluating a new non-medication approach to treat chronic lower back pain using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation TMS, a device that stimulates nerves in the lower back. This study aims to see if this magnetic nerve stimulation can reduce pain and improve quality of life compared to sham treatment. The trial includes adults aged 18 to 64 years with chronic low back pain lasting 12 weeks or more. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups one receives active magnetic stimulation to the painful area of the lower back, gradually increasing power based on tolerance, while the other group receives sham stimulation with no real magnetic power. Both groups are asked to perform daily home back exercises. The study lasts for 5 to 10 visits, each lasting up to 30 minutes on weekdays. After completing the sham sessions, participants may opt to receive up to 5 sessions of real stimulation. During each visit, participants complete questionnaires before and after the stimulation sessions to measure pain and function. Pain levels are recorded using a Visual Analog Scale at baseline and around each intervention, while functional activity is assessed with the Oswestry Disability Index at specific points. The study monitors participant tolerance, collects data over about six months, and aims to compare outcomes between the treatment and sham groups.