Assessment of Pain Experiences and Disorders in Adolescents and Adults Including Clinical and Scientific Evaluations and Eligibility for Other NIH Research

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to better understand pain by studying people aged 12 years and older, both with and without pain disorders. The study focuses on detailed clinical and scientific assessments to describe pain experiences and identify potential eligibility for other NIH research protocols. It is designed as a cross-sectional observational study conducted by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH, involving up to 10,000 participants. Participants will undergo a core evaluation that includes medical history, physical examination, questionnaires, and clinical evaluation by a licensed practitioner. They may also have scientific measurements such as MRI scans while experiencing different sensations, quantitative sensory testing involving various stimuli, electrocardiograms, breathing assessments, and sensors to monitor pulse and sweating. These assessments can take place over several years, providing deep phenotyping of pain disorders. During the study, participants will have one required visit lasting about two hours and may have up to 12 additional outpatient visits. Researchers will collect various data including vital signs, lab tests, imaging, psychological and behavioral assessments, and pain interviews. The main goal is to enable detailed characterization of pain disorders and help find participants eligible for other NIH studies. Safety and consent are prioritized throughout the process.

Clinical and Scientific Assessment of Pain and Painful Disorders