Single-Session Therapies for Chronic Pain
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine which one-time therapy session best manages chronic pain by comparing three types: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), and Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET). Chronic pain often accompanies depression and anxiety, worsening the condition. These therapies focus on changing thoughts and emotions to help reduce pain. Participants will receive one of these therapies in a single 90-minute session or continue with their usual treatment. The study seeks individuals in the U.S. who have experienced chronic pain for at least three months and feel it multiple days a week. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative therapies that could improve 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 therapies for chronic pain.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a safe and well-accepted method for managing chronic pain. Studies have found that CBT remains effective when conducted online, benefiting those who prefer or require virtual sessions. Importantly, CBT is widely used and supported by strong evidence for its safety and effectiveness in reducing pain.
Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET) also shows promise for treating chronic pain. Research suggests it helps individuals understand their emotions and their connection to pain. This therapy has proven helpful for older adults and those with emotional issues related to their pain. Overall, EAET is considered a safe option for many.
Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT) is newer but specifically addresses certain types of chronic pain. Research has shown that PRT can significantly reduce pain by altering how the brain processes pain signals. Although it is a newer therapy, early studies suggest it is safe and effective, with some individuals experiencing major improvements in their pain levels.
Overall, CBT, EAET, and PRT are generally well-tolerated and offer different approaches to safely managing chronic pain.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these therapies for chronic pain because they offer a fresh, fast-paced approach to treatment. Unlike traditional methods that often involve long-term medication or ongoing therapy sessions, these treatments—Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy—are delivered in just a single 90-minute session. This quick and remote delivery could make pain management more accessible and less time-consuming for patients. Each therapy focuses on unique aspects: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy addresses thought patterns, Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy emphasizes understanding and expressing emotions, and Pain Reprocessing Therapy targets how the brain processes pain signals. These innovative angles might help those who haven't found relief with standard care options like medication or physical therapy.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for chronic pain?
This trial will compare three different single-session therapies for chronic pain. Research has shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), one of the therapies participants may receive, helps manage chronic pain by changing thoughts and behaviors. Even a single session of CBT can reduce pain levels and improve emotional health. Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), another therapy option in this trial, shows promise, with 63% of participants experiencing less pain. EAET focuses on understanding and expressing emotions, which can alleviate pain. Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), the third therapy being tested, is a new method. Studies indicate that about 66% of participants became pain-free or nearly pain-free after treatment. Each therapy offers a unique approach to addressing chronic pain, with research supporting their effectiveness.678910
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain or general chronic pain. It's designed to compare the effectiveness of single-session psychological therapies: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT), and Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET).Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive a 90-minute single-session of either Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, or Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy delivered remotely
Follow-up
Participants' pain and mood are assessed at 1-week and 4-week post-treatment to monitor safety and effectiveness
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy
- Pain Reprocessing Therapy
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Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Mark A. Lumley
Lead Sponsor