Can acupuncture ease sickle cell pain? new study investigates
NCT ID NCT05045820
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 31, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study looks at whether acupuncture can help manage chronic pain in people with sickle cell disease. Researchers will use brain scans and other tests to understand how acupuncture affects pain signals. The study involves 60 participants aged 14 to 80 who have sickle cell disease and ongoing pain.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- acupuncture (needling and laser)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to manage chronic pain in sickle cell disease.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study (60 people) focused on measuring brain changes, not yet proving long-term pain relief. Acupuncture effects can vary widely between individuals.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Indiana University School of Medicine
Indianapolis, Indiana, 46075, United States
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