Chronic pain in otherwise healthy adolescents often results in decreased activity, which can further decline into a disabling condition in adulthood. Research efforts are underway to identify treatment modalities that will improve functional outcomes in these teens.    

In this randomized controlled trial, we use actigraphy to provide objective measures of activity in these adolescents who are receiving web-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Previous investigators have evaluated the effectiveness of CBT with subjective tools such as questionnaires and school attendance records. However, ours is the first study to gather objective data on patterns and levels of daytime activity during treatment with web-based CBT. In addition, we will enhance our capacity to measure treatment effects in this population by examining the impact of fear-avoidance beliefs and depression on physical activity.

Funding for this project is provided by the American Pain Society through the Future Leaders in Pain Small Research Grants Program.