A program to help children and teens with sickle cell pain

Integrative Training Program for Pediatric Sickle Cell Pain

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11146849

This study is testing a new program called I-STRONG to help kids and teens with sickle cell disease manage their chronic pain better by using a mix of mind-body techniques, movement, and support for families.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11146849 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the treatment of chronic pain in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease (SCD) by developing a new intervention called I-STRONG. The program combines mind-body techniques, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and movement therapies tailored to the unique needs of families managing SCD pain. By partnering with patients and their families, the research aims to adapt existing treatment methods to better address the psychological and social factors that contribute to chronic pain. A randomized clinical trial will then evaluate the effectiveness of this new approach in helping youth cope with their pain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 0-20 years who are living with chronic pain due to sickle cell disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have sickle cell disease or who are not experiencing chronic pain related to their condition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and personalized treatment option for managing chronic pain in pediatric sickle cell disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with integrative treatment approaches for chronic pain, suggesting that this method could be effective for pediatric sickle cell pain as well.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.