Exploring how chronic pain affects the risk of opioid misuse using brain imaging
Understanding pain embodiment and opioid misuse risk in chronic pain using neuroimaging
This study is looking at how people with chronic pain think about their pain and how that might affect their risk of misusing opioids, using brain scans to compare healthy people, those with chronic pain, and those who have recovered from it, all to help find better ways to treat pain and prevent opioid problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11165238 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between chronic pain and the risk of opioid misuse by examining how individuals perceive their pain through a concept called pain embodiment. Using advanced brain imaging techniques, the study will compare healthy individuals, those with chronic pain, and individuals who have recovered from chronic pain. The goal is to understand how the brain processes pain and how this may influence behaviors related to opioid use. By identifying these connections, the research aims to inform better treatment strategies for managing chronic pain and reducing opioid dependency.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic pain, as well as those who have recovered from chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic pain or have not been affected by opioid misuse may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies that reduce the reliance on opioids and lower the risk of misuse.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between pain perception and substance use, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shah, Karishma Kavita — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Shah, Karishma Kavita
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.