Treatment of Chronic Pain using Real Time fMRI

We are currently inviting chronic pain patients to participate in a study investigating a treatment for pain that uses newly-developed brain imaging methods to train participants to control their own brain activation. All participants in this study will receive a new form of cognitive training for controlling pain. A central goal of the study is to measure the impact of a new form of cognitive strategies for pain control on activations from brain regions involved in the experience of pain. Participants will be scanned using fMRI while they employ cognitive strategies allowing the participant to view the brain activity. Some participants will see their own brain activation during this process while other participants will see very similar but simulated data that does not come from their brain.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria:

-Men and Women, ages 18-55 years

-Clinically diagnosed chronic pain. Some example diagnoses include: CRPS, RSD, neuropathy, neuralgia, fibromyalgia, or migraine.

-No implanted medical devices that are not compatible with MRI (spinal cord stimulator/pump, pacemaker, surgical aneurysm clip, etc)

-No recent history of severe psychiatric illness

-Weight less than 220 lbs.

-Able to be scanned in MRI without claustrophobia

-No facial tattoos, non-removable metal implants, piercings, or extensive dental work.

-Not pregnant or having fertility treatments

-Able to read and understand English

-Additional screening criteria for MRI safety may be required

Procedure:

This is an experimental procedure and a controlled trial. We cannot and do not imply that this study will lead to a decrease in your pain.

Location:

Participants must be able to attend sessions in Menlo Park, CA. We reimburse for travel time within the Bay Area.

Compensation:

In addition to extensive interaction with our knowledgeable research team, eligible participants will receive cash compensation for their participation (i.e. travel time, questionnaires, and all time in scanner).

Sponsor:

The Principal Investigator on this research study is Dr. Christopher deCharms, PhD. This study is sponsored by Omneuron, Inc. and receives funding from the National Institutes of Health.

Contact:

Ella Laramee
Omneuron, Inc.
99 El Camino Real
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Telephone: 650-585-5304
Email: elaramee@omneuron.com

Updated August 29, 2007