Culturally Adapted Pain Management for Indigenous Peoples

Culturally Adapted Pain Management for Indigenous Peoples in the Pacific Northwest (CAP-I)

The proposed study involves a randomized feasibility pilot trial of a culturally adapted psychological intervention for chronic pain for American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) individuals receiving care for pain at the Portland Area Indian Health Service - Yakama Service Unit. The study will provide information on whether or not it is feasible to conduct a future fully-powered randomized controlled trial.

The prevalence of chronic pain is higher among American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) people than any other group in the United States. This proposed study aims to begin the process of developing a culturally-adapted psychological intervention for chronic pain among AI/AN individuals receiving care for pain at the Portland Area Indian Health Service - Yakama Service Unit. The K99 phase focused on the development of the intervention and the R00 entails a feasibility randomized pilot trial. The current study (i.e., the R00 phase) aims to assess the feasibility of conducting a future randomized controlled trial with the newly developed culturally-adapted psychological intervention for chronic pain.

Inclusion Criteria:

• at least 18 years of age
• identify as AI/AN (or by another preferred name, such Native American, Native, and/or Indigenous)
• have at least one diagnosis consistent with chronic pain and/or meet criteria for chronic pain diagnosis at enrollment (i.e., experience pain for > 50% in the past 3 months that interferes with daily functioning)
• possess the ability to speak and understand English
• have access to a mode of communication for contact, such as a telephone, for study purposes

Exclusion Criteria:

• significant cognitive impairment
• current uncontrolled serious psychological issues (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)
• active medical treatment for malignant conditions (e.g., cancer)
• active suicidality with intent
• active alcohol and/or substance abuse