Internet-Based Pain Management Program for Cancer Survivors
(IMPACTS Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
To determine whether an Internet-based pain coping skills program plus enhanced usual care, compared to enhanced usual care alone, yields significant improvements in the co-primary outcomes of pain severity (as measured by the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI)) and pain interference (also measured by the BPI) from baseline to the post-intervention assessment for cancer survivors with persistent pain.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not require you to stop taking your current medications, but if you are on pain medications, you need to be on a stable dose for at least 14 days before joining. You should not plan to increase your pain medication dose during the study, but you can decrease it if needed.
What data supports the effectiveness of the Internet-based pain management treatment for cancer survivors?
Research shows that Internet-based pain coping skills training (PCST) can effectively reduce pain and improve pain management in cancer patients, with benefits similar to traditional in-person methods. Studies also indicate that this approach is accessible, feasible, and engaging for patients, making it a promising option for managing cancer-related pain.12345
Is the Internet-Based Pain Management Program for Cancer Survivors safe for humans?
The Internet-Based Pain Management Program, including versions like painTRAINER and Pain Coping Skills Training (PCST), has been studied in cancer patients and is generally considered safe. These programs are designed to help manage pain and have been found to be acceptable and engaging for patients, with no significant safety concerns reported in the studies.12346
How is the Internet-Based Pain Management Program for Cancer Survivors different from other treatments?
This treatment is unique because it is delivered over the internet, making it more accessible to cancer survivors who face barriers like travel and cost. It focuses on teaching pain coping skills, which are behavioral strategies to manage pain, and can be done from home, unlike traditional in-person therapies.12378
Research Team
Glenn Lesser, MD
Principal Investigator
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adult cancer survivors with persistent pain, who've been treated with surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. They must have stable cancer and not be planning major treatment changes during the study. Participants need reliable internet access and should understand English. Those on a steady pain medication regimen can join but shouldn't plan to increase their dosage.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive an Internet-based pain coping skills program plus enhanced usual care or enhanced usual care alone
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Internet-based pain coping skills program
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Collaborator