Understanding stress and pain in youth with chronic widespread pain
Neurobiological Mechanisms of Stress in Youth With Chronic Widespread Pain
This study is trying to see how stress affects pain in young people with chronic widespread pain and whether mindfulness practices can help them feel better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Ages | 11 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Boston Children's Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT04488757 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying chronic widespread pain (CWP) in youth, focusing on how stress affects pain perception and related impairments. It aims to explore the role of allostatic load and hippocampal functioning in youth with CWP, particularly in relation to adverse childhood experiences. The study will utilize functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) and assess the impact of mind-body interventions like mindfulness-based stress reduction on these mechanisms. By understanding these factors, the research seeks to inform future treatment options for affected youth.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are youth aged 11-17 years with chronic widespread pain lasting more than three months.
Not a fit: Patients with other chronic pain diagnoses or severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for managing chronic pain and stress in youth.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary research suggests that mind-body interventions have shown promise in similar populations, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Chronic Widespread Pain (CWP) group: Inclusion Criteria: * Between ages 11-17 years * Referred to the Boston Children's Hospital Pain Treatment Service for evaluation of a CWP condition with duration \> 3 months * Right-handed Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to speak sufficient English to complete questionnaires * Severe cognitive impairment * Prescription steroidal (interference with cortisol measures) or psychotropic medication * Any other chronic pain diagnosis (e.g., migraines, abdominal pain, CRPS) * fMRI contraindications (e.g., dental appliances) Healthy Control (HC) group: Inclusion Criteria: * Between ages 11-17 years * Right-handed Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to speak sufficient English to complete questionnaires * Severe cognitive impairment * Prescription steroidal (interference with cortisol measures) or psychotropic medication * Any chronic pain diagnosis * Presence of documented chronic (\> 3 months) medical condition with an identifiable, organic cause (e.g., diabetes, cystic fibrosis) * fMRI contraindications (e.g., dental appliances)
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sarah Nelson — Boston Children's Hospital/Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Sarah Nelson, PhD
- Email: sarah.nelson@childrens.harvard.edu
- Phone: 6173557040
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.