Exploring how Qigong can reduce pain in people with spinal cord injuries
Official title: HAPPINESS: cHAnging the Perceived Pain INtensity in populations with Spinal cord injury and with health disparities
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10792358 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a 12-week online Qigong program can help adults with spinal cord injuries feel less chronic nerve pain, and it's designed for anyone who wants to try a gentle mind-body exercise that can be done at home.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | February 23, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $664,224 |
| NIH project number | 1R34AT012369-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10792358 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older with spinal cord injuries experiencing chronic neuropathic pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without spinal cord injuries or those not experiencing chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of a 12-week remote Qigong program aimed at reducing chronic neuropathic pain in adults with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Participants engage in Qigong exercises through online videos, practicing at least three times a week. The study focuses on assessing the feasibility and acceptability of this mind-body approach, particularly for those facing health disparities. Previous findings showed a significant reduction in pain levels among participants, indicating potential benefits of this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a non-addictive, accessible method for managing chronic pain in individuals with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results for Qigong in pain management, suggesting that this approach may be effective for similar populations.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van de Winckel, Ann L — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Van de Winckel, Ann L
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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.