Understanding how psychological factors influence the transition from acute to chronic pain after injuries.
An in-depth Examination of the Psychological Processes involved in the Transition from Acute to Chronic Pain after a Traumatic Musculoskeletal Injury
This study is looking at how thoughts and feelings can affect whether someone with a painful injury, like from a car accident, ends up with long-lasting pain, and it will involve 200 patients over three months to find ways to help prevent that from happening.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10758847 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the psychological processes that may contribute to the transition from acute pain to chronic pain in patients who have suffered traumatic musculoskeletal injuries. By examining factors such as maladaptive cognitive-behavioral strategies and emotional distress, the study aims to identify key moments when these psychological factors influence pain outcomes. The research will involve a cohort of 200 motor vehicle crash patients, collecting data on their pain levels and psychological states over a three-month period. This approach seeks to uncover potential targets for interventions that could prevent chronic pain development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a traumatic musculoskeletal injury, particularly from motor vehicle accidents.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain conditions unrelated to recent traumatic injuries may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing chronic pain in patients recovering from traumatic injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that addressing psychological factors can be effective in managing pain outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pacella, Maria Lynn — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Pacella, Maria Lynn
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.