Guided Imagery Therapy for Abdominal Pain
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It mentions that participants will continue their usual care for abdominal pain, so it's likely you can keep taking your current meds.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Guided Imagery Therapy for Abdominal Pain?
Research shows that guided imagery, a technique where you visualize calming images, can significantly reduce pain in children with recurrent abdominal pain and improve recovery after surgery. It has also been effective in managing pain for cancer patients and those with irritable bowel syndrome.12345
Is guided imagery therapy safe for humans?
Guided imagery therapy is generally considered safe for humans, as it is a non-invasive technique that uses imagination to help reduce pain and anxiety. It has been used in various settings, including for children with abdominal pain and patients with chronic pain, without reported safety concerns.13678
How is Guided Imagery Therapy different from other treatments for abdominal pain?
Guided Imagery Therapy is unique because it uses a mobile app to help patients use their imagination to connect their mind and body, which can reduce pain and anxiety without medication. This approach is particularly novel for children with abdominal pain, as it provides an accessible, non-drug option that can be used at home.13679
What is the purpose of this trial?
Chronic abdominal pain is common among children, and the majority of cases are attributed to functional abdominal pain disorders. One approach to treating these disorders is by using psychological therapies. This clinical trial aims to see how well pre-recorded guided imagery therapy sessions help children's abdominal pain when delivered via a mobile application (app) on a smartphone or tablet.Participants will complete a baseline abdominal pain and stooling diary to determine eligibility and other surveys. Participants who qualify will be placed in one of two groups by chance:* Immediate Treatment Group* Delayed Treatment GroupAfter randomization, the Immediate Treatment Group will get immediate access to the guided imagery therapy (GIT) mobile app intervention. This intervention asks participants to listen to a 10- to 15-minute GIT session 5 out 7 days weekly for 8 weeks in addition to their usual care for their abdominal pain. Then, participants will complete another abdominal pain and stooling diary and other psychometric surveys at the end of this intervention period.After randomization, the Delayed Treatment group will be observed as they wait 8 weeks without app access. During this phase, these participants will continue to treat their abdominal pain in their usual fashion. After the end of this waiting period, participants will complete another abdominal pain and stooling diary and psychometric surveys again before gaining access to the GIT mobile app intervention. As noted previously, the mobile app intervention will ask participants to listen to a 10- to 15-minute GIT session 5 out of 7 days weekly for 8 weeks in addition to their usual care for their abdominal pain. Another abdominal pain and stooling diary and other psychometric surveys will be collected at the end of this app intervention.
Research Team
John M Hollier, MD, MS, MPH
Principal Investigator
Baylor College of Medicine
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for children with chronic abdominal pain due to conditions like IBS or functional gastrointestinal disorders. They must be able to use a mobile app and complete diaries and surveys. Specific eligibility details are not provided, but typically there would be age limits and requirements for diagnosis.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Immediate Treatment
Participants in the Immediate Treatment group receive guided imagery therapy via a mobile app for 8 weeks
Delayed Treatment
Participants in the Delayed Treatment group wait for 8 weeks before starting the guided imagery therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Guided Imagery Therapy Mobile Application
Guided Imagery Therapy Mobile Application is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders
- Chronic Abdominal Pain
- Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders
- Chronic Abdominal Pain
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Baylor College of Medicine
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Collaborator