BOOST Trial

  • RRIO
    person holding their lower back
    Better Outcomes for Older people with Spinal Trouble

Welcome to the website for the BOOST trial. The trial is now closed but this site is available as a reference for participants, and clinicians and researchers who were involved in delivering the BOOST trial. 

In the BOOST trial we studied two different approaches to physiotherapy treatment for older people with back and leg pain due to lumbar spinal stenosis. We aimed to recruit over 400 people aged 65 years and over, from across England. The BOOST trial is funded by the National Institute for Health Research and is part of a wider programme of research looking at pain and physical activity in older people. We hope that you find the information you are looking for here on the website. If you have any questions or comments, please get in touch with the BOOST team using the contact details at the bottom of this page.

older man mowing lawn

The BOOST trial is looking into different physiotherapy treatments for people who suffer back and leg pain due to lumbar spinal stenosis. We aimed to recruit over 400 patients from across England to participate. Read more information about the trial and what is involved.

person with laptop making notes

We are working with a number of physiotherapy teams in NHS hospitals across England to deliver the BOOST trial to patients in these areas. See information about the trial specifically for clinicians and research clinicians.

What is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis?
a person's back with red area indicating pain

Lumbar spinal stenosis is an age-related narrowing of the spinal canal which places pressure on the nerves and blood vessels causing pain, weakness, numbness, tingling or cramping of the lower back, buttocks or legs. This condition affects older people and limits their ability to walk and stand which impacts on their ability to remain independent.