Understanding and Treating Chronic Post-Surgical Pain in Teens and Adults Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying chronic post-surgical pain CPSP in adolescents and adults to better understand its neurobiology, track patient progress in clinics, and identify those who may develop long-lasting pain. The study also explores how age affects CPSP, aiming to improve treatment choices based on underlying pain mechanisms, including those resistant to current therapies. This is a mechanistic clinical trial without drug interventions focusing on behavioral therapy effects. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group attends a one-day, five-hour group workshop based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT tailored for CPSP patients, followed by a personalized 30-minute booster session via Zoom one month later. The other group receives Treatment as Usual TAU. The ACT program emphasizes mindfulness, acceptance of difficult experiences like pain, identifying personal values, and promoting behavior changes to support valued actions. Throughout the study, researchers will measure pain acceptance using the Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire - Revised CPAQ-R over five years. Functional brain activity will also be assessed using functional near-infrared spectroscopy fNIRS. Participants will engage in assessments and follow-ups to monitor changes in pain perception and brain function. The study aims to provide insights into CPSP mechanisms and treatment responses over an extended period.

Psychophysical and Neural Mechanisms Contributing to Chronic Post-Surgical Pain in Adolescents and Adults