Mindfulness training using virtual reality for veterans with spinal cord injuries
Exploring Virtual Reality Mindfulness Training for Veterans With SCI and Chronic Pain
NA · VA Office of Research and Development · NCT06587607
This study is testing a virtual reality mindfulness program to see if it can help veterans with spinal cord injuries manage pain better and improve their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 10 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development (fed) |
| Locations | 1 site (Houston, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06587607 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to adapt a mindfulness program called VA Compassionate Awareness Learning Module (VA CALM) for veterans with spinal cord injuries (SCI) by first assessing the program's accessibility and acceptability. Initially, the unmodified curriculum will be delivered to a group of veterans with SCI to identify necessary accommodations. Following this, a steering committee will develop tailored modifications, and the modified program will be delivered via virtual reality to evaluate its feasibility and acceptability. The ultimate goal is to improve chronic pain management and enhance the quality of life for veterans with SCI.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are veterans aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of spinal cord injury and chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients who are unable to consent for research or medical care will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve chronic pain management and overall well-being for veterans with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality for mindfulness training is a growing field, this specific adaptation for veterans with spinal cord injuries is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Veteran * Diagnosis of spinal cord injury with incomplete or complete tetraplegia based on AIS score OR incomplete or complete paraplegia based on AIS score. * Endorses chronic pain lasting 3 months; * age 18+ years * Access to high-speed internet * Endorse being (at least) minimally proficient on the computer (eg, able to check emails, read the news, etc.); be able, either independently or with caregiver support, to get online for virtual meetings and don/doff VR equipment * Able to speak clearly and independently to participate in focus group interviews. Exclusion Criteria: -Individuals unable to consent for research or medical care are ineligible to participate.
Where this trial is running
Houston, Texas
- Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX — Houston, Texas, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hilary Touchett, PhD MSN BSN — Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX
- Study coordinator: Hilary Touchett, PhD MSN BSN
- Email: hilary.touchett@va.gov
- Phone: (713) 791-1414
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.
Conditions: Spinal Cord Injury, Chronic Pain, Spinal Cord Injuries, Virtual Reality, Mindfulness