How gut bacteria affect pain from bone fractures

The contribution of the intestinal microbiota to fracture-induced pain

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · PHOENIX VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM · NIH-10978191

This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect pain and healing after bone fractures, especially for Veterans, and it will also test if taking probiotics can help make recovery easier.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorPHOENIX VA HEALTH CARE SYSTEM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHOENIX, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10978191 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of intestinal microbiota in regulating pain associated with bone fractures, particularly in Veterans. It aims to understand how gut bacteria influence inflammatory responses and pain perception during the healing process. The study will involve experiments on mice to assess pain levels and functional recovery after fractures, comparing outcomes with and without the presence of specific gut bacteria. Additionally, the research will explore whether dietary probiotics can help alleviate pain during recovery from fractures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced bone fractures, particularly Veterans who may be disproportionately affected by such injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain conditions unrelated to bone fractures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary interventions that help manage pain and improve recovery for patients with bone fractures.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on gut microbiota and fracture pain is novel, there is emerging evidence supporting the role of gut bacteria in pain modulation in other contexts.

Where this research is happening

PHOENIX, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.