Adaptive Walking Intervention for Chronic Pain in Opioid Use Disorder
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you must be on a stable dose of opioid agonist treatment (like buprenorphine or methadone) for at least two weeks before joining the study.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment for chronic pain in opioid use disorder?
Research suggests that exercise can help people with opioid use disorder by improving brain health, sleep, and overall quality of life, while also reducing anxiety, depression, and pain. This indicates that physical activity, like the adaptive walking program, may be a useful addition to treatment for managing chronic pain in these patients.12345
Is the adaptive walking intervention safe for humans?
How is the Steps 2 Change treatment different from other treatments for chronic pain in opioid use disorder?
Steps 2 Change is unique because it combines a pedometer-assisted walking program with adaptive goals to increase physical activity, specifically targeting individuals with chronic pain who use opioids. This approach emphasizes gradual increases in daily steps, which can help manage pain and reduce reliance on opioids, unlike traditional treatments that may not focus on physical activity as a primary component.6891011
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a walking program with pain education for Veterans with chronic pain and opioid use disorder. The goal is to help manage their pain by teaching them about it and encouraging more physical activity. Participants will use pedometers to track their steps and attend regular sessions. Pedometer-driven walking programs have been previously studied for their feasibility and effectiveness in managing chronic pain and increasing physical activity.
Research Team
R. Ross MacLean, PhD
Principal Investigator
VA Connecticut Healthcare System West Haven Campus, West Haven, CT
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for Veterans with chronic pain and opioid use disorder (OUD) who are currently on a stable dose of opioid agonist treatment. Participants must be able to walk, have access to a mobile phone with data, and experience pain that limits activity or enjoyment. Those with untreated major psychiatric disorders, planned surgeries for pain, active suicidal thoughts, or current CBT for pain cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive weekly 60-minute treatment sessions over four consecutive weeks, focusing on pain education and an adaptive walking program.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for pain interference and other outcomes using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) at 3-month and 6-month intervals.
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Control
- Health Education
- Steps 2 Change (S2C)
Steps 2 Change (S2C) is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Chronic Pain Management in Veterans with Opioid Use Disorder
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor