Improving pain management for older adults with knee osteoarthritis

A sequenced-strategy for improving outcomes in patients with knee osteoarthritis pain

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10917533

This study is looking for better ways to help older adults with knee osteoarthritis feel less pain and move better by comparing online therapy and medication to regular care, and if those don’t work, it will also check out other non-surgical options.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10917533 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates new ways to alleviate pain and improve function in older adults suffering from knee osteoarthritis (KOA). It will compare the effectiveness of online cognitive behavioral therapy combined with medication against standard care. If patients do not respond to these initial treatments, the study will explore additional nonsurgical procedures. The goal is to provide a comprehensive approach to managing KOA pain without relying heavily on opioids.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults experiencing chronic pain from knee osteoarthritis.

Not a fit: Patients with knee osteoarthritis who are not seeking non-surgical treatment options may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective pain management strategies for older adults with knee osteoarthritis, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using behavioral therapies and non-opioid medications for pain management, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.