Improving pain management for rural Americans during COVID-19 with digital treatments
Transcending COVID-19 barriers to pain care in rural America: Pragmatic comparative effectiveness trial of evidence-based, on-demand, digital behavioral treatments for chronic pain
This study is looking at how two online programs can help people in rural America manage their chronic pain, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, to see which one works better and if some people find one program more helpful than the other.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10610907 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how digital behavioral treatments can help manage chronic pain for individuals in rural America, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It compares two evidence-based, home-based programs that patients can use on their smartphones or computers to learn skills for pain management. The study aims to determine which program is more effective and if certain patients respond better to one approach over the other. By utilizing these digital tools, the research seeks to provide accessible pain care solutions for those facing barriers to traditional healthcare.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals living in rural America who suffer from chronic pain and may have experienced increased distress due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have access to digital devices or the internet may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide effective, accessible pain management solutions for patients in rural areas.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with digital behavioral treatments for chronic pain, indicating a promising approach for this population.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spiegel, Brennan — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Spiegel, Brennan
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 below.