Northwestern University

This study tested a 5-week online program called ALDER for adults over 65 who use benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety or sleep medications). The program teaches positive emotion regulation skills to help reduce anxiety and sleep problems while cutting down on medication use. 33 partici…

This study tested whether a specific nerve block (Pecs block) using a non-opioid painkiller called Exparel could reduce pain, nausea, and the need for opioids after breast reconstruction surgery. Sixty adults undergoing implant-based tissue expander breast reconstruction took par…

This study tested a technology service to help care managers in obstetrics clinics better treat depression in pregnant women and new mothers. 75 English-speaking adults with moderate to severe depression who owned a smartphone took part. The goal was to see if the tech support im…

This study tested a digital mental health app for young adults (ages 18-25) who self-injure and are not in treatment. 90 participants were split into three groups: a self-guided app, the app with coaching, or an active control with educational content. The goal was to see if the …

This study tested an online program called LEAF that teaches positive emotion skills to family caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease. About 386 caregivers took part, either in a group video session, a self-guided version, or a waitlist. The goal was to see if practicing p…

This study tested whether having a physical therapist available in the emergency department helps people with chronic low back pain. 128 adults with low back pain were included. The goal was to see if this approach improves daily functioning and reduces the need for opioid painki…

This study looked at how the brain tracks speech sounds in healthy volunteers aged 13 to 25. Researchers compared English and Mandarin speakers to see how language experience and attention affect brain responses. The goal was to better understand the brain's role in hearing, not …

This study tested whether small, wearable sensors can accurately measure fluid buildup and tissue stiffness in people with lymphedema (arm swelling after cancer treatment). Thirty adults with upper-arm lymphedema wore the sensors during one visit, and researchers compared the rea…

This study tested whether older adults (age 60+) who take multiple medications find a smart pillbox with automatic reminders easy and acceptable to use. Twelve participants used the device for 30 days. The goal was to see if the pillbox helps them remember to take their medicines…

This study tested whether gentle reminders built into electronic health records could help doctors avoid unnecessary tests and treatments in older adults. Researchers focused on three common areas: testing for bladder infections without symptoms, PSA screening in men over 75, and…

This study looked at 120 men who had prostate surgery (HoLEP) for an enlarged prostate. Researchers wanted to see if having bowel problems before surgery made recovery harder. They used simple questionnaires to measure bowel function and tracked how well patients recovered after …

This study tested a method called measurement-based care, where patients regularly report their progress to guide treatment. Researchers worked with 35 leaders and providers at opioid treatment programs to see if this approach improves attendance and reduces opioid use. The goal …