Exploring ways to reduce negative feelings in people with chronic low back pain

Proof of concept study to treat negative affect in chronic low back pain

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10683413

This study is looking at ways to help people with chronic low back pain feel better emotionally, by using a mix of therapy and medication to see if it can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression while also helping with pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10683413 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates methods to alleviate negative emotions such as anxiety and depression in individuals suffering from chronic low back pain. The approach combines behavioral therapies and antidepressant medications to assess their effectiveness in improving emotional well-being and pain management. Patients will be monitored throughout the treatment process to evaluate changes in their emotional state and pain levels. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how emotional health impacts chronic pain and vice versa.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic low back pain accompanied by negative emotional states such as anxiety or depression.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have chronic low back pain or those without significant emotional distress may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved emotional health and pain relief for patients with chronic low back pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing emotional health can significantly improve outcomes for patients with chronic pain, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-13 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.