RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06004804

Group-Based Psychological Treatments Over Video Conference for Older Veterans With Chronic Pain

Evaluating Group-Based Psychological Treatments Over Home Video Teleconference for Older Veterans With Chronic Pain

Sponsor

VA Office of Research and Development

Enrollment

216 participants

Start Date

Oct 1, 2023

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain

Summary

This study is being performed to compare the effects of three types of group-based psychological treatments delivered over video telehealth for chronic musculoskeletal pain in older U.S. military Veterans. The three types of psychological treatments are: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), and Mindfulness Meditation (MM). In addition, the investigators will evaluate which patients respond best to each treatment and how each treatment works. The investigators are performing the study because chronic pain is a big problem among Veterans. Older Veterans are the focus because they have the highest rates of chronic pain, perhaps as high has 80%. The investigators are looking at psychological treatments because they are less risky than medications or procedures for older Veterans. Telehealth is an important aspect of the proposal, as delivery over telehealth could improve access to treatments. CBT is endorsed nationally by VA, but no standardized MM is available through VA, and only a few VA sites use EAET, which is a newer treatment focusing on how stress and emotions affect pain. The project aims to evaluate a standardized form of MM and the newer treatment, EAET, compared to the standard CBT used widely in VA.

Eligibility

Min Age: 60 YearsMax Age: 95 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This clinical trial is studying Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a behavioral approach called Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy, and others for people with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The study is currently recruiting participants at 2 locations.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

BEHAVIORALEmotional Awareness and Expression Therapy

Seeks to reduce physical (e.g., pain) and emotional (e.g., depression, anxiety) symptoms by helping individuals become aware of their emotions, express them, and resolve emotional conflicts. It will use techniques such as writing about stress, role playing how to handle difficult relationships, recognizing and expressing anger and other feelings, and being more open with others.

BEHAVIORALMindfulness Meditation

Seeks to help individuals achieve present moment awareness, self-compassion, and acceptance of chronic pain. It will use techniques such as the body scan, grounding, mindful breathing, mindful walking, loving kindness, and compassionate breathing.

BEHAVIORALCognitive Behavioral Therapy

Seeks to help individuals function better and improve symptoms by teaching various cognitive and behavioral skills to manage symptoms. It will use techniques such as relaxation training, engaging in pleasant activities, pacing yourself, and changing unhelpful ways of thinking.