Using ketamine and storytelling to help Veterans with chronic low back pain and depression
Ketamine-assisted integrative treatment for Veterans with chronic low back pain and comorbid depression
This study is looking at how combining ketamine infusions with storytelling therapy can help Veterans who are dealing with chronic low back pain and depression, aiming to improve both their pain and mood in a way that might work better for them than regular therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10915879 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the combined effects of ketamine infusions and a narrative intervention for Veterans suffering from chronic low back pain and depression. The approach involves administering ketamine, known for its rapid pain relief and mood-enhancing properties, followed by a narrative therapy designed to help patients process their experiences. The goal is to improve both pain management and emotional well-being, particularly for those who may not respond well to traditional psychotherapy. The study will include pilot testing and a small randomized controlled trial to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of this integrated treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans experiencing chronic low back pain along with comorbid depression.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have chronic low back pain or depression may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide Veterans with a novel treatment approach that alleviates chronic pain and improves mental health simultaneously.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that narrative interventions can effectively reduce pain and depression, suggesting potential success for this combined approach.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- Veterans Health Administration — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Powell, Victoria Diane — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Powell, Victoria Diane
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.