Understanding how the brain controls pain to improve treatment for chronic pain
Integrating brain and behavioral measures of central pain inhibition to personalize treatment in chronic pain management
This study is looking at how well the brain can block pain in people with chronic pain, using special tools to see how their brains respond, with the hope of finding better ways to help manage their pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11053624 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's ability to inhibit pain affects individuals with chronic pain. By using innovative techniques like functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and offset analgesia, the study aims to measure brain activity and pain responses in patients. The goal is to identify how changes in central pain inhibition can inform personalized treatment strategies, potentially leading to better pain management outcomes for patients. This approach seeks to bridge the gap between laboratory findings and real-world patient experiences.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain conditions who may benefit from tailored pain management strategies.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain or those not experiencing chronic pain may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, personalized treatments for individuals suffering from chronic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using brain imaging and behavioral measures to understand pain mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alter, Benedict J — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Alter, Benedict J
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.