Exploring acupuncture as a treatment for chronic pain in older adults
Addressing Chronic Pain in Older Adult Populations: Acupuncture Healthcare Delivery Model Innovation in the United States
This study is looking at how acupuncture can help older adults with chronic pain feel better without relying on medications, especially for those who might not have easy access to this kind of care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10994778 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how acupuncture can be effectively integrated into pain management for older adults suffering from chronic pain. It aims to understand the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of acupuncture as a non-pharmacological treatment option, especially in underserved populations. The study will assess the differences in priorities between healthcare institutions and individual patients regarding acupuncture treatment. By addressing gaps in current knowledge, the research seeks to develop a sustainable model for delivering acupuncture care to older adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and over who experience chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those who do not experience chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide older adults with a safe and effective alternative to opioid medications for managing chronic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for chronic pain, but this specific approach focusing on older adults is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ding, Jessica Lu — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Ding, Jessica Lu
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.