Chronic Pain Research Study
The University of Florida is conducting a study in Alachua County and neighboring areas to understand the effects of krill oil on pain, physical function, and cognitive function in older adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Fast Facts
Chronic Pain of the Hip, Knees, or Lower Back That Affects Daily Life
60+ Years Old
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Gainesville, FL
Study Background
Evaluating Krill Oil’s Impact on Pain and Function in Older Adults with Chronic Pain
Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a common and debilitating condition among older adults, significantly affecting their quality of life, physical mobility, and cognitive function. Traditional pain management approaches often include medications that can have adverse side effects, especially in older populations. Therefore, exploring alternative treatments that are both effective and safe is of paramount importance. Krill oil, a dietary supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acids, has shown promise in reducing inflammation and pain in preliminary studies, making it a potential candidate for managing chronic musculoskeletal pain in elders.
The Krill Oil for Pain in Elders (KOPE) study, conducted by the University of Florida, aims to investigate whether daily consumption of krill oil can alleviate pain and improve physical and cognitive function in older adults. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will assess the effects of krill oil on pain levels, physical function, cognitive abilities, and inflammatory markers in the blood over a 12-week period. Participants will be closely monitored through a series of in-person visits, ensuring thorough evaluation and accurate data collection to determine the efficacy of krill oil as a pain management solution for older adults.
Study Background
Evaluating Krill Oil’s Impact on Pain and Function in Older Adults with Chronic Pain
Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a common and debilitating condition among older adults, significantly affecting their quality of life, physical mobility, and cognitive function. Traditional pain management approaches often include medications that can have adverse side effects, especially in older populations. Therefore, exploring alternative treatments that are both effective and safe is of paramount importance. Krill oil, a dietary supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acids, has shown promise in reducing inflammation and pain in preliminary studies, making it a potential candidate for managing chronic musculoskeletal pain in elders.
The Krill Oil for Pain in Elders (KOPE) study, conducted by the University of Florida, aims to investigate whether daily consumption of krill oil can alleviate pain and improve physical and cognitive function in older adults. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will assess the effects of krill oil on pain levels, physical function, cognitive abilities, and inflammatory markers in the blood over a 12-week period. Participants will be closely monitored through a series of in-person visits, ensuring thorough evaluation and accurate data collection to determine the efficacy of krill oil as a pain management solution for older adults.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to investigate whether krill oil can effectively reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain and improve physical and cognitive function in older adults. By exploring this natural alternative, researchers aim to enhance pain management strategies for seniors.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
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Ages 60+
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Have chronic pain in the hip, knees, or lower back
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Pain affects movement and daily activities (e.g., walking a city block, climbing stairs)
Exclusion Criteria:
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Taking omega-3 supplements (e.g., fish oil)
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Coagulation or bleeding disorders
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Taking blood thinners, full-dose aspirin (baby aspirin is OK), high-dose NSAIDs, or opioids
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Taking medication known to affect muscle (e.g., steroids)
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Taking SSRIs (e.g., Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro)
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High consumption of fatty fish (>2 servings/week)
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Known allergy to seafood
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Participating in another clinical trial
If you participate in this study, here’s what you can expect:
Screening Visit: You’ll start with a screening visit at the University of Florida to determine your eligibility. This visit will involve answering questions about your health and medical history.
Baseline Visit: If eligible, you’ll return for a baseline visit where initial assessments will be conducted. This visit will include blood draws, surveys, and tests of your physical and cognitive function.
Daily Supplement: You will be randomly assigned to take either krill oil or a placebo every day for 12 weeks. The assignment is random, like flipping a coin, so neither you nor the researchers will know which one you are taking.
Follow-Up Visits: You’ll have two follow-up visits—one at 6 weeks and another at 12 weeks. These visits will include similar assessments to monitor your progress and the effects of the supplement.
Throughout the study, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to important research that may help improve pain management strategies for older adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Plus, you’ll gain insights into your own physical and cognitive health.
You will be compensated for your time and participation with up to $165 through Visa Reloadable Debit Cards. This includes $50 for the baseline visit, $35 for the 6-week visit, $50 for the 12-week visit, and an additional $10 per visit for travel if you live outside Gainesville, FL.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
Principal Investigator: Javier A. Tamargo, PhD, RDN; Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida (IRB#202400581).