800 older adults in a 2025 trial saw modest pain and disability improvements from three months of acupuncture, with benefits lasting about a year; experts say it works best alongside active therapy.
113 patients in a 2022 trial improved more with aquatic exercise than standard physical therapy after three months, though broader reviews found only modest gains and called for stronger evidence.
2,331 people with chronic musculoskeletal pain in a 2025 trial were about 50% more likely to report meaningful pain reduction with coach-led CBT and 30% more likely with self-guided CBT.
Experts stress no single option works for everyone, and most chronic low back pain treatments offer moderate relief rather than complete recovery.