NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding and treating shoulder pain after a stroke

Official title: Quantifying and Treating Myofascial Dysfunction in Post Stroke Shoulder Pain

Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11170291 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking into why many stroke survivors have shoulder pain and how a substance called hyaluronic acid might be affecting their movement and comfort, with the goal of finding better ways to diagnose and treat this issue to help them feel better and recover more effectively.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project startSeptember 21, 2022
Project endAugust 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$3,086,679
NIH project number4R33AT012279-02
Project IDNIH-11170291 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are stroke survivors experiencing chronic shoulder pain.

Less likely to help

Patients who have not experienced a stroke or do not have shoulder pain may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on the common issue of shoulder pain experienced by stroke survivors, which affects a significant number of patients. It aims to investigate the underlying causes of myofascial dysfunction in the shoulder, particularly how the accumulation of hyaluronic acid impacts pain and mobility. Using advanced imaging techniques like T1rho MRI and quantitative ultrasound, the study will assess the extent of tissue changes and develop methods for early diagnosis and effective treatment. By identifying biomarkers associated with myofascial dysfunction, the research seeks to improve pain management and enhance recovery outcomes for patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better pain management strategies and improved quality of life for stroke survivors suffering from shoulder pain.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging techniques to assess myofascial dysfunction, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Johns Hopkins University
    Baltimore, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Raghavan, Preeti — Johns Hopkins University
  • Study coordinator: Raghavan, Preeti

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.