Yoga and Mindfulness for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a leading cause of disability, significantly impacting quality of life and work productivity. Traditional treatments often provide limited relief, necessitating alternative approaches. This multicenter, parallel-arm, randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to evaluate the efficacy of Sphinx Pose Yoga Therapy (Yoga), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and their combination in managing CLBP among healthcare providers (HCPs). Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: Group A (Yoga Therapy): Sphinx Pose Yoga therapy, practiced three times per week. Group B (MBSR): Weekly mindfulness meditation, body scan, and gentle stretching. Group C (Usual Care): Standard treatment guidelines as per The Back Book. Group D (Combined Yoga \& MBSR): Integrated approach, practiced twice per week. The study will assess pain intensity, functional disability, quality of life, physiological markers, mental health, and heart rate variability. Outcomes will be measured at baseline (Week 0), post-intervention (Week 12), and follow-up (Week 24). The trial aims to determine whether Yoga, MBSR, or their combination provides superior benefits over usual care in CLBP management.