Digital intervention for Veterans with chronic pain

Assessing the Efficacy of an Acceptance-Based Digital Intervention to Improve Functioning for Veterans With Chronic Pain

Not applicable Interventional VA Office of Research and Development · NCT06058624

This study tests whether an online therapy program for Veterans with chronic pain can help them manage their pain better than another online program.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment240 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorVA Office of Research and Development Federal
Locations3 sites (West Haven, Connecticut and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06058624 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project evaluates the effectiveness of an online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy program specifically designed for Veterans suffering from chronic pain. It compares the Veteran ACT for Chronic Pain (VACT-CP) with another online program, Online Pain School, to determine which better assists Veterans in managing their pain and improving their daily functioning. The study addresses the high prevalence of chronic pain among Veterans and aims to provide an accessible, non-medical approach to pain management that can be utilized from home.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are Veterans diagnosed with non-cancer chronic pain who have access to a computer and high-speed internet.

Not a fit: Patients with current or lifetime psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, or significant cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance the quality of life for Veterans by improving their pain management and daily functioning.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise for online interventions in managing chronic pain, indicating that this approach is both relevant and potentially effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Current diagnosis of non-cancer chronic pain, defined by:

  * 1a at least one pain-related diagnosis indicated by an ICD-9 or -10 code related to either Musculoskeletal pain or Joint Problems/Osteoarthritis
  * 1b. minimum Grade 1 or 2 on the Graded Chronic Pain Scale
* Has a computer and working, high-speed wireless internet connection at home
* Competent to provide written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any current or lifetime DSM-5 psychotic disorder
* Current or recent (within 1 month of study entry) DSM-5 substance use disorder
* Current use of any other chronic pain-related psychological treatment
* Clinically significant suicidality within the past year
* Any cognitive or physical impairment that would interfere with study participation of using a computer and providing feedback

Where this trial is running

West Haven, Connecticut and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Chronic PainInternet-Based InterventionPsychosocial InterventionAcceptance and Commitment TherapyQuality of LifeVeterans
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.