Which talk therapy works best for chronic pain? new study aims to find out

NCT ID NCT06044649

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study compares three psychological treatments—CBT, ACT, and EAET—for adults with chronic back or neck pain. Researchers want to understand how each therapy works and which patients benefit most. 408 participants will receive weekly online therapy for 8 weeks and be followed for 6 months.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors match chronic pain patients to the most effective psychological therapy, improving pain management without drugs.

What could go wrong

This is a mechanistic study, not a treatment trial. It may not lead to new treatments, and results may not apply to all pain types or people.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Back Pain Chronic Pain chronic pain syndrome Neck Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Rush University Medical Center

    Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States

  • Wayne State University

    Detroit, Michigan, 48202, United States