Understanding why some patients develop chronic pain after injuries

Mechanisms of transition from acute to chronic pain in Non-Hispanic Black and White injury patients

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10825580

This study is looking at how race might influence the way people experience pain after a serious injury, and it's for adults who have had orthopedic injuries, like broken bones. By talking to both Black and White participants, the researchers want to learn more about the different factors that can affect pain and help find better ways to treat it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10825580 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how race affects the transition from acute to chronic pain in patients who have experienced traumatic injuries. By recruiting both non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White adults with orthopedic injuries, the study aims to identify the biobehavioral and social factors that contribute to differences in pain outcomes. Participants will undergo assessments during their hospital stay and through monthly follow-ups to evaluate pain sensitivity, inflammatory biomarkers, and psychological factors. The goal is to better understand the mechanisms behind pain disparities and improve treatment approaches.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are non-Hispanic Black and non-Hispanic White adults aged 21 and older who have sustained traumatic orthopedic injuries.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have traumatic injuries or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective pain management strategies tailored to different racial groups.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of race in pain perception and outcomes can lead to significant advancements in pain management, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.