Self Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Mindfulness-based Meditation for Pain in Older Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis

Self Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Mindfulness-based Meditation for Pain in Older Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis (Self tDCS and Meditation for Knee Pain)

The purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a two-week self tDCS and mindfulness-based meditation for pain in older adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Inclusion Criteria:

• self-reported unilateral or bilateral knee OA pain, according to American College of Rheumatology criteria. According to American College of Rheumatology criteria, participants should meet at least 3 of 6 criteria, including age > 50 years, stiffness < 30 minutes, crepitus, bony tenderness, bony enlargement, and no palpable warmth.
• have had knee OA pain in the past 3 months with an average of at least 30 on a 100 Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for pain
• can speak and read English
• have a device with internet access that can be used for secure video conferencing for real-time remote supervision
• have no plan to change medication regimens for pain throughout the trial
• are able to travel to the coordinating center
• are willing and able to provide written informed consent prior to enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participants will be excluded if they have concurrent medical conditions that hinder the completion of the protocol, including any of the following
• history of brain surgery, brain tumor, seizure, stroke, or intracranial metal implantation
• serious medical illness, such as uncontrolled hypertension (i.e., systolic blood pressure/ diastolic blood pressure ≥ 150/95 mm Hg), heart failure, or history of acute myocardial infarction
• alcohol/substance abuse
• cognitive impairment
• pregnancy or lactation
• hospitalization within the preceding year for psychiatric illness