Ask the Doctor
Q: I've seen a lot of research studies listed on the Web. I've had back pain for about four years and nothing's really helped. What do I have to do to get into a research study?
A: There are many different types of research studies under way for the treatment of back pain. If you are interested in participating in a trial, you should ask your current spine doctor about trials they are conducting. Also, the web page provides information about candidacy for individual studies and clinics where they are performed. You may call a center near you to get information about specific trials. If you fit the criteria for a trial, you will be provided information about what treatments are involved, their potential risks and benefits, costs and what you will be asked to do (such as completing questionnaires, having x-rays or MRI scans, follow-up requirements, etc.). For many studies, you will need to complete questionnaires and have x-rays made for several follow-up visits, including annual checkups for two to five years.