Objectives: The utilization of mobile health (m-health) has rapidly expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, and there is still a lack of relevant clinical data pertaining to chronic low-back pain（CLBP）management. This study was designed to compare the effectiveness of m-health based exercise (via guidance plus education) versus exercise (via guidance) during CLBP management.Methods: Participants (n = 40) were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group received m-health based exercise (via guidance plus education), whereas the control group received m-health based exercise (via guidance). The exercise prescription video and educational content were sent to participants by the application (app), Ding Talk. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to test the baseline’s intervention effects, 6-week follow-up, and 18-week follow-up. We selected function（Roland and Morris Disability Questionnaire）and pain intensity (current, mean, and most severe Numeric Rating Scale in the last 2 weeks）as the primary outcomes, changes of negative emotion (depression, anxious), and quality of life as the secondary outcomes.Results: Time’s significant effect was found in pain, function, and health-related quality of life in both groups, but time did not show significant interaction effects. Participants were able to use m-based education with their anxiety and depression after treatment, but the relief only lasted until Week 6. No differences were found on the aspect of mental health-related quality of life.Conclusion: M-health based exercise (via guidance) is a convenient and effective method to treat CLBP. Additionally, plus education is more helpful in relieving short-term negative emotions and improving treatment adherence than guidance only. However, at the last follow-up（18-week）, no significant differences were found between the intervention and control groups.

Background: Non-specific chronic low back pain (NCLBP) has a high incidence, which has a significant impact on a patient's body and mind, and is a common condition affecting people's quality of life. Core Stability Exercise (CSE) is a modestly effective treatment for NCLBP; however, NCLBP has only been shown to be a useful treatment option in the short-term. Many clinical practice guidelines recommend the use of a biopsychosocial framework to guide management of NCLBP. Self-Compassion Training（SCT）is a promising psychotherapy treatment option for NCLBP; however, there is still a lack of research on CSE combined with SCT. In this study, we will seek to determine whether CSE combined with SCT is an effective treatment option for patients with NCLBP compared to CSE alone.Methods: In this study, we will randomize 60 adults with NCLBP to a combined SCT and CSE arm or a CSE alone arm (30 participants per group). Both interventions will consist of four weekly 1.5-hour group sessions of CSE supplemented by home practice. The combined group protocol also includes 2 hours of SCT before CSE. Interviewers masked to the treatment assignments will assess outcomes at 4 and 12 weeks post-randomization. The primary outcomes will be back pain disability (based on the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire) and Pain intensity (NRS; average pain, worst pain, average pain) at 12 weeks.Discussion: If SCT is found to enhance the effectiveness of CSE for patients with chronic back pain, the results of the study may promote the development of mind–body therapies for chronic low back pain.Trial registration: The trial was prospectively registered with the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry Number:ChiCTR2100042810 .Registered on 21 Jan 2021.