Psychological Therapies for Chronic Pain via Telehealth
(GPTVTCOVCP Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine how three psychological treatments reduce chronic pain in older Veterans. The treatments include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which teaches pain management skills; Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), which focuses on emotions and stress; and Mindfulness Meditation (MM), which encourages present-moment awareness. Delivered via telehealth, the study provides easy access for Veterans from home. Veterans aged 60-95 with musculoskeletal pain (pain in muscles, bones, or joints) for at least three months might be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, it offers Veterans the chance to explore innovative treatments conveniently from home.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on psychological treatments, which are generally less risky than medications, but it's best to discuss your specific situation with the trial coordinators.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
A previous study showed that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is safe and well-tolerated. It helps individuals manage symptoms by changing negative thoughts and behaviors. Research indicates that CBT effectively treats chronic pain, depression, and anxiety without significant risks.
For Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), research suggests it is generally safe and helps individuals address emotional conflicts that may cause pain. Although newer than other therapies, studies suggest positive results with few side effects.
Mindfulness Meditation is another option. Studies have shown it to be low-risk, with potential benefits for reducing stress and managing chronic pain. It involves practices like mindful breathing and meditation, which are considered safe for most people.
Overall, these psychological treatments pose less risk compared to medications or surgery, especially for older adults.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these psychological therapies for chronic pain because they offer innovative, non-pharmacological approaches that can be accessed via telehealth, making them more accessible to those who may not have easy access to traditional in-person therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on teaching practical skills to manage symptoms, such as relaxation and changing negative thought patterns, which differs from medication-based treatments that primarily target the physical aspects of pain. Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET) is unique in its approach to addressing emotional conflicts and expression, aiming to reduce both physical pain and emotional distress, unlike conventional treatments that may not address these emotional components. Mindfulness Meditation emphasizes achieving present moment awareness and self-compassion, offering a holistic approach that fosters acceptance and mental resilience, contrasting with the often symptom-focused standard treatments.
What evidence suggests that this trial's psychological treatments could be effective for chronic pain?
Research has shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), one of the treatments in this trial, helps individuals with chronic pain by altering negative thoughts and behaviors, which can significantly improve symptoms. Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), another treatment option in this trial, might reduce pain even more than CBT. Specifically, some trials found that 63% of participants using EAET experienced significant pain relief. Mindfulness Meditation (MM), also under study in this trial, is associated with a small decrease in pain and aids in stress management by encouraging focus on the present moment. Each of these treatments reduces pain in different ways, offering options that might suit different individuals better.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Brandon C Yarns, MD MS BME
Principal Investigator
VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, West Los Angeles, CA
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for U.S. military Veterans aged 60-95 with chronic musculoskeletal pain, such as back or neck pain, lasting at least 3 months and causing moderate to severe daily discomfort. Participants must be able to use video telehealth services and speak English fluently.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive group-based psychological treatments (CBT, EAET, MM) delivered over video telehealth for chronic musculoskeletal pain
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy
- Mindfulness Meditation
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada for the following indications:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Eating disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Eating disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Substance use disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Eating disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor