Multimodal Imaging and Biospecimen Collection for Low Back Pain (LBPB)

Summary

This prospective cohort study investigates the neurobiological, genetic, and psychosocial mechanisms underlying acute and chronic low back pain (LBP). Core objectives include establishing a high-quality biobank to support future research in connectomics, genomics, and biomarker discovery, and identifying predictors of pain progression and treatment response.

The study will also assess the impact of comorbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances on pain perception and clinical outcomes. Longitudinal analyses will explore the dynamic interplay between emotion, cognition, sleep, and pain to inform precision, mechanism-based interventions.

Functional imaging will be used to examine brain responses to nociceptive modulation, aiming to identify neural circuits involved in pain chronification. By integrating multimodal data-including neuroimaging, neurophysiology, microbiota profiling, polysomnography, and molecular assays-the study will define LBP subtypes, with a particular focus on nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic mechanisms. The ultimate goal is to establish prognostic biomarkers and advance personalized strategies for LBP prevention and treatment.

Conditions

• Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP)
• Acute Low Back Pain
• Low Back Pain
• Chronic Pain
• Acute Pain
• Mental Disorders
• Sleep Disorder
• Fibromyalgia (FM)
• Nociplastic Pain
• Neuropathic Pain
• Nonspecific Low Back Pain

Interventions

PROCEDURE

Nerve Block

The "nerve block" intervention in this study involves the targeted administration of anesthetic agents and corticosteroids to specific nerves or nerve roots to alleviate pain associated with low back pain. This procedure is performed under imaging guidance (e.g., fluoroscopy or ultrasound) to ensure precise delivery of the medication to the affected nerve. It aims to temporarily block the transmission of pain signals from the affected area to the brain, providing relief and allowing for a better assessment of the underlying pain mechanism. The nerve block is distinguished from other interventions in this study by its localized approach, focusing on pain modulation through direct neural targeting, rather than systemic pain management methods. The procedure may be used either as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other therapies (e.g., physical therapy, medications) based on the patient's individual needs and response to treatment.

PROCEDURE

endoscopic spinal disecetomy

The Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat symptomatic lumbar disc herniations by removing the protruding or damaged disc material that is pressing on the nerve roots. This intervention is distinguished by the use of endoscopic technology, which allows for a smaller incision, real-time visualization of the affected area via an endoscope, and the removal of herniated disc tissue with minimal disruption to surrounding structures. Unlike traditional open discectomy, which requires larger incisions and muscle dissection, endoscopic discectomy involves the use of a small tubular retractor and specialized instruments, leading to reduced blood loss, shorter recovery times, and less postoperative pain. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and the patient is often able to go home the same day. It is specifically designed for patients with lumbar disc herniations who have not responded to conservative way.

DRUG

Medication

The treatment of lumbar pain typically involves a multimodal approach combining medications based on the specific type of pain and patient needs. NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and muscle relaxants are often first-line treatments for nociceptive pain, while opioids and anticonvulsants like pregabalin are used for more severe or neuropathic pain. The choice of medication is guided by the severity of the pain, its underlying causes, and the patient's response to treatment. Each class of medication has its strengths and limitations, and the decision to use them must take into account factors like patient safety, the risk of side effects, and long-term efficacy.

BEHAVIORAL

Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This structured, goal-oriented therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns, cognitive distortions, and maladaptive behaviors associated with chronic pain. CBT equips patients with coping strategies to reframe thoughts, reduce pain-related anxiety, and enhance emotional regulation, thereby improving overall function and quality of life. CBT can include techniques such as cognitive restructuring, relaxation training, and behavioral activation. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT encourages individuals to accept pain and distressing emotions rather than avoiding them. It emphasizes mindfulness, acceptance, and values-based living, helping patients focus on behaviors that align with their values, despite ongoing pain.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• National Natural Science Foundation of China

  collaborator OTHER_GOV

• Peking University Third Hospital

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Jie Sun · Peking University Third Hospital

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

85 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-05-15

Primary Completion

2028-12-31

Completion

2028-12-31

Countries

• China

Study Locations