Using brain stimulation and cognitive techniques to manage pain in veterans after surgery
tDCS Combined with a Brief Cognitive Intervention to Reduce Perioperative Pain and Opioid Requirements in Veterans
This study is looking at how a gentle brain stimulation technique, paired with some helpful thinking strategies, can make it easier for veterans to manage pain after surgery and possibly reduce their need for opioid painkillers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11044105 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with a brief cognitive intervention to help reduce pain and the need for opioids in veterans undergoing surgery. By targeting the brain's pain processing pathways, the study aims to improve pain management strategies and enhance recovery outcomes. Participants will receive non-invasive brain stimulation along with cognitive techniques designed to help them cope with pain, potentially leading to less reliance on opioid medications post-surgery.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who are scheduled to undergo surgical procedures and are at risk of experiencing significant post-operative pain.
Not a fit: Patients who are not veterans or those who are not undergoing surgery may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective pain management strategies that reduce the need for opioids in veterans after surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using brain stimulation techniques for pain management, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Borckardt, Jeffrey J — Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Borckardt, Jeffrey 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.