Digital Intervention for Chronic Pain
(VACT-CP Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Pain has been identified as among the most frequent presenting medical complaints, in particular within primary care for Veterans. There are few areas of daily living and functioning that pain intensity does not impact, with reported pain intensity related to difficulties in social situations and changes in activities of daily life, sleep, and appetite. Therapeutic interventions such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Chronic Pain (ACT-CP) that target issues related to the cognitions and emotional concerns related to chronic pain have been well-documented for reduction of associated psychiatric symptoms and modest pain relief. At the same time, online programming can improve the ability of pain psychoeducation programs and ACT-CP to reach patients. The proposed project will compare online Veteran ACT for Chronic Pain (VACT-CP) compared to another pain program, Online Pain School, to evaluate how they assist Veterans with chronic pain to improve their functioning, pain management, and quality of life.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on psychological treatments for chronic pain.
What data supports the effectiveness of this treatment for chronic pain?
Research shows that online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help improve pain management and quality of life for people with chronic pain. Studies have found small to moderate positive effects on pain interference and acceptance, making it a promising option for those who have difficulty accessing traditional therapy.12345
Is the digital intervention for chronic pain safe for humans?
How is the Online Pain School treatment for chronic pain different from other treatments?
The Online Pain School, specifically the Veteran ACT for Chronic Pain (VACT-CP), is unique because it offers an online, non-drug approach using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help veterans manage chronic pain. This digital format increases accessibility for veterans who may have difficulty accessing traditional in-person therapy due to time, resource, or location constraints.14589
Research Team
Erin D. Reilly, PhD
Principal Investigator
VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for Veterans with non-cancer chronic pain, who have internet and a computer at home. They must be able to consent and not be in any other psychological treatment for pain. Those with substance use issues, cognitive impairments that affect study participation, psychotic disorders, or recent suicidality cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants complete seven modules of the online Veteran ACT for Chronic Pain (VACT-CP) or Online Pain School over seven weeks
Follow-up
Participants complete post-treatment surveys to assess the impact of the intervention on functioning, quality of life, and other health factors
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Online Pain School
- Veteran ACT for Chronic Pain (VACT-CP)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor
North Texas Veterans Healthcare System
Collaborator
VA Connecticut Healthcare System
Collaborator