Exploring how Qigong can reduce pain in people with spinal cord injuries

HAPPINESS: cHAnging the Perceived Pain INtensity in populations with Spinal cord injury and with health disparities

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-10792358

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10792358 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older with spinal cord injuries experiencing chronic neuropathic pain.

Not a fit: Patients without spinal cord injuries or those not experiencing chronic pain may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Minneapolis, 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.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.