IMPOWR-ME Project 1: Trial of Yoga and Physical Therapy Onsite at Opioid Treatment Programs

Launched by ALBERT EINSTEIN COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · Aug 5, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The IMPOWR-ME Project 1 is a clinical trial that is exploring how yoga and physical therapy can help people with chronic back pain who are also receiving treatment for opioid use disorder. In this study, 345 participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one will participate in onsite yoga classes, another will receive onsite physical therapy, and the third group will continue with their usual treatment. The trial will last for 12 weeks, and researchers will check in with participants at various points to assess their pain levels and opioid use, helping to see if these activities can improve their overall well-being.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be at least 18 years old, be able to communicate in English or Spanish, and have been receiving specific treatments for opioid use disorder for at least 12 weeks. They should also have moderate to severe chronic back pain. Participants will need to be willing to engage in the study activities and provide their consent. It's important to note that individuals with severe health conditions or recent psychiatric issues may not be able to participate. Overall, this study aims to find new ways to support people struggling with pain and opioid dependence in a community setting.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. age ≥18 years old
• • 2. English or Spanish proficiency (i.e., be able to participate in study interventions and interviews in English or Spanish)
• • 3. receiving methadone or buprenorphine treatment for OUD in the Montefiore OTP network for at least 12 weeks, with no dose change in 14 days
• • 4. Chronic low or mid back pain, with at least moderate pain severity (score of ≥4 on the Pain, Enjoyment of Life and General Activity (PEG) Scale
• • 5. Willingness to participate in all study components
• • 6. ability to provide informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. severe disabling conditions that could make participation in yoga or PT hazardous
• • 2. acute exacerbation of psychiatric conditions that preclude the ability to participate in the study (e.g., acute mania, active suicidality/homicidality, psychosis)
• • 3. CP related to malignancy
• • 4. yoga practice or PT in the prior 60 days