Using brain imaging to improve pain management for spinal cord injury patients
Official title: Neuroimaging and Connectome Analysis as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker of SCI Induced Neuropathic Pain
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-11004381 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for ways to better understand and diagnose neuropathic pain caused by spinal cord injuries, so that we can create more personalized and effective treatments for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | December 26, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $564,509 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134987-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004381 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a spinal cord injury and are suffering from chronic neuropathic pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a spinal cord injury or those without chronic neuropathic pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on identifying biomarkers that can help diagnose and predict the prognosis of neuropathic pain resulting from spinal cord injuries. By utilizing advanced neuroimaging techniques and connectome analysis, the study aims to understand the complex mechanisms behind chronic pain in these patients. The goal is to develop a reliable method for classifying pain types, which can lead to more effective treatment and rehabilitation strategies tailored to individual needs. Patients will be assessed through both quantitative imaging and qualitative pain reports to enhance pain management outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective pain management strategies for patients with spinal cord injury-induced neuropathic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using neuroimaging techniques to understand pain mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alizadeh, Mahdi — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Alizadeh, Mahdi
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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.