Using a weighted blanket to help veterans with chronic pain
Official title: RCT of a Weighted Blanket to Reduce Pain in Veterans with Chronic Pain
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-10975918 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether using a heavy weighted blanket can help veterans with chronic pain and trouble sleeping feel better compared to a lighter blanket, by seeing how it affects their pain and sleep quality.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2023 |
| Project end | September 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01CX002591-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975918 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 21 and older who experience chronic musculoskeletal pain and sleep disturbances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have chronic pain or sleep disturbances may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of a weighted blanket as a non-drug intervention for veterans suffering from chronic pain and sleep disturbances. The study compares the effects of a heavy weighted blanket to a light control blanket to see which one better reduces pain and improves sleep quality. By measuring changes in pain levels and sleep patterns, the research aims to understand how deeper pressure from the blanket may lead to better outcomes. Participants will be veterans who experience chronic musculoskeletal pain and related sleep issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide veterans with a low-cost, effective method to manage chronic pain and improve sleep quality.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results for sensory interventions like weighted blankets in reducing anxiety and improving sleep, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Case, Laura K — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Case, Laura K
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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.