Comparing pre-recorded and live yoga for veterans with chronic pain
Examining the Effectiveness of Asynchronous Versus Synchronous Yoga for Veterans With Chronic Pain
This study is testing whether pre-recorded yoga videos or live online yoga classes can help veterans with chronic pain feel better and improve their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Portland VA Medical Center Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Portland, Oregon) |
| Trial ID | NCT06973876 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of pre-recorded yoga videos compared to live online yoga sessions for veterans suffering from chronic pain. Over a period of four months, participants will engage in a 5-session virtual yoga course and continue practicing yoga independently or in a VA online class. The study will assess changes in chronic pain, mental health, and quality of life outcomes using a combination of online assessments and interviews. The research seeks to determine the feasibility and acceptability of these yoga formats and their potential impact on pain management.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are U.S. veterans with diagnosed musculoskeletal pain and an average pain severity of at least 4.
Not a fit: Patients who are unable to participate in yoga due to severe physical limitations or those with recent psychotic symptoms may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide veterans with accessible and effective options for managing chronic pain through yoga.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for yoga as an intervention for chronic pain, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * U.S. Veteran enrolled at VAPORHCS and has established care with a VA medical or mental health provider. * Diagnosed with musculoskeletal pain, confirmed by electronic health record review and phone screening. * Has an average pain severity of at least 4 in the past 3 months, assessed by items 1-5 of the Brief Pain Inventory, Short Form. * Aged 18 or over. * Capable of using video teleconferencing to complete enrollment, assessment, and video interventions. * Meets physical readiness, assessed by the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) and approved for yoga participation by their primary care team or physical therapy team. * Able to sit and stand from the floor without assistance * Able to ambulate community distances without an assistive device * Intact sensation in lower extremities below the knees Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to read and write in English. * Unable to freely give informed consent. * Recent (past 3 months) psychotic symptoms consistent with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder, or other psychotic disorder and unrelated to PTSD. Assessed by medical record review and provider team. * Practicing yoga regularly defined as weekly or biweekly practice of 60 or more minutes for 6 months or more. * Recent (past 3 months) history of suicidal gesture related to physical pain or active suicidal ideation (plan, intent, means). * Concurrently enrolled in another research protocol involving a pain focused intervention. * Upcoming surgery that would impact yoga practice. * Active alcohol/other substance abuse or dependence (unless actively engaged in treatment). Assessed via the The Tobacco, Alcohol, prescription medication and other Substance use Tool (TAPS). A cutoff of 2 will be used to rule out. * Joint replacement within the past 12 months.
Where this trial is running
Portland, Oregon
- Portland VA Medical Center — Portland, Oregon, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Noah Jacobson, MPH
- Email: noah.jacobson@va.gov
- Phone: 503-220-8262
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.