Cannabis & Chronic Pain Study
Researchers at Rutgers University are conducting a study on cannabis, chronic pain, and typing performance for adults ages 45–70.
Fast Facts
Use Cannabis occasionally, primarily for the treatment of Back or Neck Pain
45-70
Years Old
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Nationwide
Study Background
We’re studying how cannabis use affects chronic pain and daily activities like typing.
With cannabis use becoming increasingly common across the U.S., there is still much we don’t know about its effects on health. Many people use cannabis to help with pain, yet the research findings are mixed. More studies are needed to better understand how cannabis may help—or potentially hinder—everyday functioning.
In this study, we’re focusing on typing because it’s a routine activity that almost everyone does. Typing patterns—like speed and rhythm—are unique to each person, much like a fingerprint. By analyzing typing performance, we may be able to detect real-time changes in pain levels, side effects, and potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis, all without requiring participants to do anything outside of their normal daily computer use.
Study Background
We’re studying how cannabis use affects chronic pain and daily activities like typing.
With cannabis use becoming increasingly common across the U.S., there is still much we don’t know about its effects on health. Many people use cannabis to help with pain, yet the research findings are mixed. More studies are needed to better understand how cannabis may help—or potentially hinder—everyday functioning.
In this study, we’re focusing on typing because it’s a routine activity that almost everyone does. Typing patterns—like speed and rhythm—are unique to each person, much like a fingerprint. By analyzing typing performance, we may be able to detect real-time changes in pain levels, side effects, and potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis, all without requiring participants to do anything outside of their normal daily computer use.
Additional Information
This study is being done to understand how cannabis use affects chronic back or neck pain, as well as how it influences daily activities like typing.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 45-70
- Use cannabis occasionally, primarily for the treatment of back or neck pain
- Regularly type on a Windows laptop
- Primary route of cannabis administration is smoke or vape
- No substance use disorders including cannabis or alcohol
- If female, not pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the near future
- Not currently in treatment for substance use
- No psychosis
If you are eligible, you will complete an online baseline survey, computer tasks, and install a study app on your Windows computer. You’ll answer brief phone surveys three times a day and when using cannabis for 30 days, while your typing data is collected passively. At the end, you’ll complete a 20-minute follow-up interview by phone or Zoom.
Participants may receive up to $260 for completing all study activities. Compensation is provided via Mastercard gift card or CashApp. The study is conducted virtually, so no travel is required.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.