Using weighted blankets to reduce pain after breast surgery
Effect of Weighted Blankets on Perioperative Anxiety and Postsurgical Pain
This study is testing if using weighted blankets can help reduce anxiety and pain after breast surgery for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 168 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of California, San Diego Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (La Jolla, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05324254 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the impact of weighted blankets on anxiety and postsurgical pain in patients undergoing breast surgery. It aims to determine if the weight of the blanket can influence pre-surgical anxiety levels and subsequent pain after surgery. Participants will use a weighted blanket for up to three months and provide feedback through a smartphone app. The study will also explore psychological and clinical factors that may affect individual responses to the blanket's weight.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking individuals scheduled for breast surgery who are willing to use a weighted blanket.
Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have chronic high-dose opioid use, or have previously used a weighted blanket may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could help reduce postsurgical pain and anxiety for patients undergoing breast surgery.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific use of weighted blankets in this context is novel, other studies have shown that anxiety management can positively influence pain outcomes.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Fluent in English * Undergoing breast surgery * Willing to sleep with a weighted blanket for up to 3 months * BMI of at least 18.5 and able to safely lift up to 15lb * Willing and able to use their personal smartphone for the ecological momentary assessment app to submit ratings using personal data plan Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy * Chronic high-dose opioid use * Current or previous use of a weighted blanket * Claustrophobia * Incarceration
Where this trial is running
La Jolla, California
- Actri, Ucsd — La Jolla, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Laura K Case, PhD
- Email: lcase@health.ucsd.edu
- Phone: 858-246-4968
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.