Telemedicine Intervention for Chronic Pain in Parkinson's Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how home-based physical and mental exercises can reduce pain for people with Parkinson's disease, a condition where pain is common but often untreated. Participants will be divided into groups to receive either physical exercises, cognitive exercises, both types, or health education over three months. The goal is to find easy and affordable ways to manage pain through remote access, especially for Veterans with Parkinson's. The trial seeks participants diagnosed with Parkinson's who experience symptoms like tremors or stiffness. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could enhance pain management strategies for Parkinson's patients.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, since the study involves exercise interventions and not medication changes, you may not need to stop your current medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that mental exercises at home are safe and enjoyable for people with Parkinson's. Studies found that participants safely performed these exercises at home, enjoyed them, and improved their thinking skills.
For physical exercise, research indicates it is safe and beneficial for people with Parkinson's. Home exercise programs did not cause serious side effects. These exercises help improve balance and walking speed, making daily tasks easier.
When combining physical and mental exercises, studies suggest this approach is safe and might enhance brain function more than doing each type alone. This combination is well-tolerated and can lead to better management of Parkinson's symptoms.
Overall, these treatments have demonstrated safety, with no major negative effects reported in previous studies.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the telemedicine interventions for chronic pain in Parkinson's disease because they offer a unique approach compared to standard treatments like medication and physical therapy. Unlike traditional methods, these interventions use cognitive and physical exercises that can be done remotely, making them accessible to more patients. The combination of cognitive and physical exercises aims to address both the mental and physical aspects of chronic pain, potentially offering a more holistic and convenient way to manage symptoms. This approach could revolutionize how patients interact with their treatment plans, providing flexibility and enhancing their quality of life.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for chronic pain in Parkinson's disease?
Research has shown that home exercises can benefit people with Parkinson's disease by improving movement, thinking skills, and overall quality of life. In this trial, participants may receive a cognitive exercise intervention, which studies have found can be done remotely and might help slow memory and thinking problems. Others may receive a physical exercise intervention, which can increase strength, improve balance, and boost overall health. Some participants will receive both physical and cognitive exercises together, potentially leading to significant improvements in both body and mind. This evidence suggests that these exercises, whether done separately or together, can help manage ongoing pain and other symptoms of Parkinson's disease.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
David William Sparrow, DSc
Principal Investigator
VA Boston Healthcare System Jamaica Plain Campus, Jamaica Plain, MA
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with Parkinson's Disease who experience chronic pain. Participants must have a physician's diagnosis of idiopathic PD, show at least two key symptoms (resting tremor, rigidity, or slow movement), and respond to medication that increases dopamine. It excludes those with recent heart issues like angina or myocardial infarction within the last six months.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either cognitive exercise, physical exercise, combined interventions, or health education for 3 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in pain severity after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cognitive exercise intervention
- Health education
- Physical exercise intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor