Mind-body approach for treating chronic upper extremity pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This pilot study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a mind-body intervention for individuals suffering from chronic upper extremity pain, specifically targeting conditions like repetitive stress injury. The study will assess improvements in functional capacity using the Disability of Arm Shoulder Hand (DASH) score, as well as reductions in pain intensity, pain-related anxiety, and overall somatic complaints. Participants will engage in tailored mind-body techniques designed to address their specific pain experiences and disabilities. The study will also refine the intervention and outcome assessment methods for future trials.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adult (≥ 18 years of age)
2. A disability score ≥ 40 as per the QuickDASH survey
3. Presence of pain and perceived disability for a minimum of 3 months
4. Willing to engage in a Mind-Body intervention
5. Positive visualization test (onset of pain when patients visualize themselves performing tasks that generally bring on pain)

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Clear organic diagnosis of pain (e.g., cancer, infection, etc…) not inclusive of non-specific findings on imaging studies (e.g., mild arthritis)
2. Age greater than 60 years (due to an increased risk of there being an organic/physical cause for their pain and confounding results)
3. Diagnosis of cognitive impairment or dementia
4. Active addiction disorder, e.g. cocaine or IV heroin use, that would interfere with study participation
5. Major psychiatric comorbidity (e.g., schizophrenia). Anxiety and mild-moderate depression are not considered in this category

Where it's running

• Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Michael Donnino, MD — Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Ashley Scafetta
• Email: ascafett@bidmc.harvard.edu
• Phone: 617-754-2882

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.