Using bright light therapy with cognitive-behavioral therapy to help older adults with insomnia and prevent chronic pain after surgery

Adding Bright Light Treatment to Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia to Prevent Chronic Post-Surgical Pain in Older Adults

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10819719

This study is looking at how morning bright light therapy combined with sleep therapy can help older adults with knee arthritis sleep better after knee surgery, which might reduce their pain and need for pain medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10819719 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the combined effects of morning bright light treatment and cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTi) on older adults undergoing total knee arthroplasty. The study aims to determine if improving sleep can reduce the risk of chronic postsurgical pain and decrease the need for opioid medications. By focusing on older adults with knee osteoarthritis, the research seeks to address a significant public health issue, as insomnia is a common problem in this population. Participants will receive tailored interventions to enhance their sleep quality and potentially improve their surgical outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults with knee osteoarthritis who are scheduled for total knee arthroplasty and experience insomnia.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have insomnia or are not undergoing total knee arthroplasty may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better pain management strategies for older adults after surgery, reducing reliance on opioids and improving overall recovery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia can improve sleep and pain outcomes, suggesting that this combined approach may also be effective.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.