BCFS002137-UF-Booker-340 [Landing Page] -

Chronic Pain
Research Study

Researchers at the University of Florida are conducting the PROACTIVE Study to learn whether a pain self-management education program can help reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain and improve coping skills. If you have ongoing low back, knee, leg, or other lower-extremity joint pain that has lasted at least 3 months, you may qualify to participate. This study focuses on teaching practical strategies for managing chronic pain and does not provide medications or medical treatment.

Fast Facts

Identify as Black/African American and 50+ years old

Chronic joint pain in the lower back, hip, knees, ankles/foot

Compensation
up to $195

Conducted in
Gainesville, FL

Additional Information

Why is this study being done?

Chronic musculoskeletal pain can make everyday activities more difficult and affect quality of life. Researchers want to find out whether a structured pain self-management education program can help reduce pain, improve physical function, and build effective coping skills for adults living with chronic pain.

Is this study for me?

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

Identify as Black/African American
Ages 50+
Chronic joint pain in the lower back, hip, knees, ankles/foot
Chronic pain has lasted 3 months or more
Live in Florida
Have health insurance in the state of Florida
Do not identify as Hispanic
No cardiovascular problems
No history of stroke
No major psychiatric conditions (e.g., bipolar disorder, psychosis, OCD)
No major neurological conditions (e.g, Alzheimer’s, dementia, MCI)
No vision impairments
No hearing impairments

What will happen if I participate in the study?

Participation lasts approximately 4 months. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a control group or an intervention group to evaluate the intervention’s effectiveness.

This includes:

Four weekly study visits over the first month
A follow-up visit 1 month after the program ends
A final follow-up visit 3 months after the program ends

In-Person Study Visits:

Participants will attend 4 weekly visits with a nurse or health educator.

During these visits, you may:

Complete questionnaires about your pain, health, and daily activities
Learn pain self-management strategies
Participate in balance and walking exercises
Discuss ways to better manage chronic pain in everyday life

Researchers will also ask you to return for:

One follow-up visit approximately 1 month after the program
One final follow-up visit approximately 3 months after the program

These visits help researchers understand how well the education program works over time.

Participants must live within approximately 90 miles of Gainesville, Florida, and be able to attend study visits at the University of Florida research site.

Will I be paid for being in this research study?

Participants may receive up to $195 for completing study activities.

Will it cost me anything to participate in this study?

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.