Understanding how brain injuries lead to chronic pain
The Role of Pain-Facilitating Circuits in Chronic Pain after Traumatic Brain Injury
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS · NIH-10925621
This study is looking at how a concussion might lead to ongoing pain, like headaches or body aches, and aims to understand how the brain's pain control systems are affected, so we can find better ways to help people who are struggling with pain after their injury.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PALO ALTO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10925621 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), commonly known as concussion, and the development of chronic pain conditions such as headaches and body pain. It aims to uncover the neurophysiological mechanisms that disrupt the body's natural pain modulation systems after an mTBI. By studying the brain circuits involved in pain facilitation and inhibition, the research seeks to identify why some individuals experience prolonged pain following their injury. This knowledge could pave the way for targeted therapies to alleviate chronic pain in affected patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a mild traumatic brain injury and are suffering from chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain not related to traumatic brain injury may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically address chronic pain resulting from traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding pain mechanisms related to brain injuries, indicating that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
PALO ALTO, UNITED STATES
- VETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS — PALO ALTO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHEN, QILIANG — VETERANS ADMIN PALO ALTO HEALTH CARE SYS
- Study coordinator: CHEN, QILIANG
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.