This study is being conducted to better understand how experiences of discrimination and structural racism may relate to chronic pain in older Black and African American adults, and to explore ways to improve pain outcomes and overall quality of life. The study also aims to identify factors that may increase risk for pain as well as factors that may help protect against it.

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

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 45 years or older
• Identify as Black or African American (non-Hispanic)
• Experience chronic knee and/or lower back pain consistent with musculoskeletal pain
• Able to speak, read, and understand English
• Able to attend two in-person clinic visits in Gainesville, FL

Exclusion Criteria:

• Serious medical conditions that would make participation unsafe
• Active rheumatic diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus)
• Recent major surgery at the pain site or back surgery within the past 6 months
• Daily use of opioid medications

Overall Duration

• This study takes place over two in-person clinic visits, with a short period of at-home activities between visits. Each clinic visit lasts up to about 3 hours.

In-Lab Activities

• Participants will come to the University of Florida clinic for two visits. At each visit, they will review and sign consent forms, answer questions about their health history, and complete questionnaires about pain, health, and daily experiences. Participants will also complete simple tests of strength, movement, and sensation, including tests of how they respond to different types of pressure or temperature.
• During the visits, participants will also have their vital signs checked, provide a blood sample, and complete an MRI scan of the brain. Some parts of the study may be recorded using photos or videos to help researchers better understand responses and movement.

At-Home Activities

• Between the two clinic visits, participants will complete short questionnaires at home about their health, pain, and daily experiences. Some participants may also be asked to wear a wristwatch that tracks sleep, activity, and other health measures, including pain-related experiences. These activities are brief and completed on their own time.

Participants may receive up to $200 total for completing the study. This includes $100 for Visit 1, $75 for Visit 2, and $25 for transportation support.

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