Improving sleep quality for patients with chronic pain

Metacognitive Behavioral Therapy Integrated in Sleep Treatment for Comorbid Insomnia in Patients With Persistent Pain: A Randomized Controlled Semi-Crossover Clinical Trial

NA · University of Tromso · NCT06351839

This study is testing a new group program to help adults with chronic pain sleep better and see if it can also ease their pain compared to standard treatments.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment106 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Tromso (other)
Locations1 site (Tromsø, Troms County)
Trial IDNCT06351839 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This intervention focuses on addressing the high prevalence of insomnia among patients suffering from chronic pain. It compares a group-based program that includes sleep literacy, sleep restriction, stimulus control, and metacognitive therapy against standard treatment-as-usual (TAU). The goal is to determine if this comprehensive approach can lead to better sleep quality and potentially alleviate pain symptoms. The study targets adult patients referred for pain evaluation at the University Hospital of North Norway.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults diagnosed with chronic non-malignant pain and comorbid insomnia.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of drug abuse or those currently involved in compensation cases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being for patients with chronic pain.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited evidence on psychological treatments for comorbid insomnia in chronic pain patients, some previous studies have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients who, after clinical examination at University hospital of Northern Norway (UNN) fill the criteria for a chronic non-malignant pain diagnosis according to ICD-10.
* Satisfy criteria for a comorbid insomnia
* Both first-time referrals and former referred patients.

Exclusion Criteria:

* A comorbid drug abuse diagnosis (ICD-10)
* An ongoing compensation and/or insurance case related to a health issue, illness or treatment
* Drug treatment using \>100 morphine equivalents
* Participation in other group-based treatments at the UNN Pain Department or the Physical Outpatient Medical Clinic (must be completed before inclusion)

Where this trial is running

Tromsø, Troms County

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Insomnia Chronic, Insomnia Due to Medical Condition, Pain, Chronic, Insomnia, Comorbid insomnia, Chronic pain, MetaCognitive Therapy for Insomnia, Sleep Hygiene

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.