Understanding how brain activity affects chronic pain management through therapy
Self-regulation of real-time fMRI brain activity in chronic pain: A potential neurobiological mechanism of cognitive behavioral therapy
This study is exploring how people with chronic pain, like fibromyalgia, can learn to control their brain activity to better manage their pain, and it’s designed for those looking for new ways to improve their treatment through techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlestown, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10870558 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how individuals can learn to control their brain activity in real-time to help manage chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to uncover the brain mechanisms involved in self-regulation and how these relate to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) outcomes. Participants will engage in cognitive and emotional processes to improve their pain management skills, potentially leading to better treatment results. The research focuses on understanding the connection between self-regulation and pain perception, particularly in those who experience pain catastrophizing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic pain conditions, particularly fibromyalgia, who are seeking non-pharmacologic treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those not experiencing chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into effective pain management strategies for patients with chronic pain conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic pain management, indicating that exploring the neurobiological mechanisms could further enhance treatment efficacy.
Where this research is happening
Charlestown, United States
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital — Charlestown, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Jeungchan — Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
- Study coordinator: Lee, Jeungchan
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.