Research study seeks chronic pain sufferers with SCI to use self-hypnosis via videoconferencing for relief

Chronic pain affects many people with spinal cord injury (SCI) and can be musculoskeletal, neuropathic, or associated with spasms. Medications help but rarely cure chronic pain. New research suggests that training in self-hypnosis plus cognitive therapy (HCT) can reduce chronic SCI-related pain. Self-hypnosis is a skill people can learn to enter a state of relaxed alertness and openness to suggestion. Cognitive therapy involves changing how the brain processes pain by changing thoughts about pain. This study aims to find out if people can learn HCT from a therapist via videoconferencing and if they experience significant pain relief.

If videoconferencing-based HCT works, more people with SCI could benefit from this therapy. This is a research study, so half of the participants will be randomly assigned to HCT and half to usual care. ALL participants will be asked to complete outcome assessments. No in-person visits are needed. Participants earn up to $60 for completing assessments.

You may be eligible for this study if you: 1) are at least 18 years old, 2) have been diagnosed and treated for SCI, 3) have chronic pain related to your SCI, 4) are able to read, speak, and understand English; and 5) have access to a web-cam & microphone through either a computer, smartphone or other internet-connected device. The study is sponsored by the University of Washington’s Department of Rehabilitation Medicine. You can learn more and how to apply for the study HERE.