Va Office Of Research And Development

This VA study is testing whether a simple, daily breathing exercise can help people with chronic spinal cord injury. The treatment involves breathing air with slightly elevated carbon dioxide for short periods to try to strengthen breathing muscles. Researchers want to see if thi…

This study is testing a new approach to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and its related health issues like high blood pressure and exercise fatigue. Researchers are investigating whether repeated, brief, and safe periods of reduced oxygen, called mild intermittent hypoxia (MI…

This study is testing whether a medication called empagliflozin can improve the health and flexibility of arteries in veterans with obesity. Fifty veterans aged 30-60 will take either the medication or a placebo pill daily for 12 weeks. Researchers will measure artery stiffness t…

This study is testing whether a blood biomarker can help doctors choose the best treatment for people whose small cell lung cancer has returned after initial therapy. Participants will either receive a new combination of two oral drugs (Stenoparib and Temozolomide) or the standar…

This study is testing a program called MINDSET that aims to help veterans with heart disease or diabetes who smoke or drink too much. The program sends personalized information by mail about how these habits affect their health, followed by a supportive phone call. Researchers wa…

This study is for veterans with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) who are already taking a standard pill (BTKi). It tests if adding a second drug, venetoclax, for one year leads to better results than continuing the standard pill alone. After …

This study is testing whether a combination of highly precise radiation treatments and a targeted radioactive drug can control advanced prostate cancer without continuing hormone-suppressing therapy. All 60 participants will stop their hormone-suppressing treatments and receive t…

This study is testing a new telehealth counseling program for Veterans with advanced liver disease. A nurse counselor will work with 450 participants over several video calls to help them understand their illness, identify their personal health goals, and discuss treatment option…

This study is testing whether combining intermittent fasting with standard immunotherapy helps fight advanced lung cancer better. Researchers want to see if a special fasting diet makes cancer cells more vulnerable to treatment while reducing side effects. The trial involves 66 p…

This study is testing whether a 12-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program can help reduce frailty and improve resilience in older veterans. Researchers will enroll 200 veterans aged 65 and older to compare exercise done at a center versus at home. The goal is to see…

This study aims to find the best way to safely reduce steroid medication doses for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers will test different tapering schedules with 200 participants to understand why some people can reduce steroids easily while others experience symptoms.…

This study is testing if a new care model helps veterans with chronic kidney disease better control their high blood pressure. It compares patients who manage their own blood pressure medications with a pharmacist's guidance against those who just monitor at home and receive stan…

This study is comparing two types of talk therapy for Veterans who have social anxiety disorder along with symptoms of PTSD. It aims to see if a single, more general therapy approach works as well as a therapy specifically designed for social anxiety. The goal is to help Veterans…

This study is testing whether three different treatments—oxygen, finasteride, and acetazolamide—can help control sleep apnea in elderly Veterans. Researchers want to see if these options can stabilize nighttime breathing and serve as alternatives to standard mask-based therapy. T…

This study is testing whether a special telehealth pain management service can help Veterans safely reduce their use of opioid painkillers after orthopedic surgery. The program provides personalized support and coordination before and after surgery for Veterans at risk of long-te…

This study is testing whether adding a cream called imipramine to a standard light therapy treatment makes it more effective at treating and preventing sun-damaged skin spots that can turn into cancer. It will involve 48 veterans with fair skin who have many of these pre-cancerou…

This study aims to find better ways to treat central sleep apnea, a breathing disorder during sleep that's common in people with heart failure or on certain pain medications. Researchers will test different combinations of existing treatments—like breathing machines plus medicati…

This study is testing if a simple computer training program can help Veterans with alcohol use disorder drink less and improve their daily lives. The program is designed to change automatic reactions to alcohol cues and is given alongside standard VA treatment. Researchers will e…

This study tests whether repeatedly inflating and deflating a blood pressure cuff on the arm before heart procedures can protect patients' kidneys from damage. Researchers are enrolling 240 people with heart failure who need coronary angiography or stents. The goal is to see if t…

This study is developing and testing a new group therapy called Continuous Identity-Cognitive Therapy (CI-CT) for Veterans who have recently experienced a suicidal crisis. The therapy focuses on helping Veterans build a hopeful future, improve their sense of identity, and enhance…

This study is testing whether doing aerobic exercise right before a virtual reality rehab game helps people recover better after a stroke. Researchers want to see if this combination improves arm movement, walking ability, mood, and thinking skills in stroke survivors. The study …

This study aims to find out which of two common blood pressure medications works better for people receiving dialysis. It will compare metoprolol, which is filtered out during dialysis, to carvedilol, which is not. The goal is to see which drug more effectively prevents heart att…

This study is testing whether a two-week course of dronabinol, a medication derived from cannabis, can reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnea. It will involve about 120 veterans with moderate sleep apnea who will take the oral medication and have sleep studies before and …

This study is testing whether a 6-month online stationary bike program can help preserve vision and improve overall health in Veterans with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Researchers will compare 70 Veterans doing spin cycling against a control group to see if exercise a…

This study is testing a specialized therapy program designed for Veterans who are currently or recently involved with the criminal justice system. The goal is to see if this program is better than standard supportive group therapy at reducing the risk of future criminal behavior …

This study is testing if a remote support program can help people stick with their knee exercises after finishing physical therapy for osteoarthritis. The program uses game-like challenges, social support, and optional health coaching delivered through a smartphone app. Researche…

This study is testing whether a computer-based brain training program can help people who have survived a stay in an intensive care unit (ICU). Many ICU survivors struggle with memory, focus, and daily tasks like managing medicine. The research will compare the brain training pro…

This study is testing if Allopurinol, a medication usually used for gout, can improve heart function, exercise ability, and quality of life in African American Veterans with resistant high blood pressure. Researchers will give the drug for 8 weeks to 50 participants to see if it …

This study examines whether treating obstructive sleep apnea (using a positive airway pressure device) during a 28-day residential treatment program improves outcomes for Veterans with both PTSD and substance use disorder. Researchers will compare immediate treatment to a delayed…

This study is testing whether a combination of two treatments works better for veterans with PTSD. One treatment uses a magnet to gently stimulate a part of the brain linked to emotion control. The other is a brief, structured writing therapy about traumatic memories. Researchers…

This study aims to help cancer survivors who have chronic pain reduce their long-term opioid use safely. It will test four different treatment approaches, including specialized pain care and medication changes, to see which works best. The goal is to lower opioid doses by at leas…

This study is testing a new 'smart' bandage that delivers gentle electrical stimulation to help heal chronic, slow-healing wounds. It will involve 16 veterans with wounds related to diabetes or spinal cord injury. Researchers will compare the new bandage to standard wound care to…

This study aims to find out if surgery or a targeted, high-dose radiation treatment is better for people with early-stage lung cancer. It will enroll 670 veterans and other patients who are healthy enough for either treatment. Researchers will follow participants for at least 5 y…

This study is testing whether a new drug, capivasertib, combined with standard hormone-blocking drugs, can shrink aggressive prostate tumors before surgery. It is for men with high-risk prostate cancer that has a specific genetic feature (PTEN loss) linked to treatment resistance…

This VA study is testing a new way to guide exercise therapy for veterans with peripheral artery disease (PAD), where blocked leg arteries cause painful cramping when walking. Instead of using pain to decide when to stop and rest, the new method uses a sensor to monitor oxygen le…

This study is testing whether adding a new oral drug called tulmimetostat to an existing immunotherapy (pembrolizumab) can help control advanced non-small cell lung cancer. It is for patients whose cancer has continued to grow despite previous treatments that included immunothera…

This study is testing whether a computer-based working memory training program can help Veterans with PTSD better manage fear responses. 120 participants will complete either the real training or a placebo version over four weeks, with brain scans before and after. Researchers wa…

This study is testing if a daily soluble corn fiber supplement can help older men absorb calcium better and improve bone health. Researchers believe the fiber works by changing the community of bacteria in the gut. They will enroll 30 male Veterans over 60 to compare the fiber su…

This study tests a combination treatment for stroke survivors who have difficulty paying attention to one side of their body or space (called neglect). Researchers are combining gentle brain stimulation with arm rehabilitation exercises to see if it improves brain activity, movem…

This study is testing a specialized three-session talk therapy designed to help Veterans in suicidal crisis. It aims to see if this therapy, when added to high-quality standard care, can reduce suicide attempts and suicidal thoughts more effectively than standard care alone. The …

This study is testing a combination of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation for veterans with a specific type of advanced lung cancer that cannot be removed by surgery. The goal is to see if this three-part treatment is safe and effective at controlling the cancer and keepi…

This study is testing if using a positive airway pressure (PAP) machine at night helps older veterans who have both chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and obstructive sleep apnea. Researchers want to see if the machine reduces daytime sleepiness, improves sleep quality …

This study is testing a new drug called CORT108297 that blocks the stress hormone cortisol to see if it helps treat PTSD in veterans. About 40 veterans with chronic PTSD will take the drug or a placebo for 7 days. The main goals are to check if the drug is safe and to gather earl…

This study is testing whether a low dose of thyroid hormone can treat a serious form of fatty liver disease called NASH in Veterans. Researchers believe the hormone may help the liver's energy centers burn excess fat more effectively. The trial will compare the hormone against a …

This study is testing if a smartphone app, when used alongside standard medication, helps Veterans with alcohol use disorder reduce heavy drinking days more effectively than medication alone. It will involve 330 Veterans across 15 VA sites who are starting medication treatment. T…

This study is testing whether a breathing treatment called mild intermittent hypoxia can help prevent dangerous blood pressure swings in people with spinal cord injuries. Researchers will have 24 participants with spinal cord injuries and sleep breathing problems try this treatme…

This study aims to help older Veterans who are struggling with Long-COVID symptoms like fatigue and weakness. Researchers are testing whether a program of exercise, with or without a special antioxidant supplement (Mito-Q), can improve blood vessel health and speed up recovery. T…

This VA study is testing a new, combined treatment program for Veterans who have both PTSD and obesity. The program merges proven mental health therapy with weight management support, including medication reviews. Researchers want to see if this integrated approach helps Veterans…

This study is testing whether a non-invasive electrical stimulation on the neck, combined with physical training, can help people with spinal cord injuries regain the ability to reach and grasp with their hands. It will involve veterans with chronic neck-level injuries and health…

This study is testing a mobile phone program that gives Veterans small rewards for quitting smoking, especially those getting lung cancer screening or cancer care. First, researchers will design the program with feedback from Veterans and staff. Then, they'll test if the reward p…

This study is testing a new 'Transition to Cardiac Rehabilitation' (T2CR) program designed to help Veterans with heart disease and other chronic health problems start home-based recovery. The program provides in-person coaching and planning before patients begin standard home-bas…

This study aims to help Veterans with substance use disorders by creating personalized models that show what triggers their substance use and related mental health symptoms like anxiety and depression. Researchers will track 74 Veterans' daily experiences using smartphone surveys…

This study is testing whether metformin, a common diabetes medication, can help Veterans with peripheral artery disease (PAD) walk farther with less leg pain. Researchers will give 200 participants either metformin or a placebo pill for 6 months to see if it improves walking dist…

This early-stage trial is testing a new targeted treatment for bladder cancer that hasn't spread into the muscle layer. The treatment uses tiny particles that carry chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, aiming to kill them while potentially reducing side effects. The study will …

This study aims to find out if a monthly injection for opioid addiction works better than the standard daily pills at helping veterans stay in treatment and avoid using opioids. It will follow 952 veterans with opioid addiction for one year to see which treatment leads to better …

This study is testing if a medication called empagliflozin can help protect the kidneys and heart in people who have received a heart transplant. Researchers will enroll 200 veteran heart transplant recipients to take either the drug or a placebo for one year. The goal is to see …

This study is creating a support program and assessment tools to help veterans with mental health or substance use issues transition from prison back to community life. Researchers will first interview recently released veterans about their experiences, then develop materials bas…

This study is testing a new monitoring program for veterans with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a chronic gut condition. The program helps patients track their symptoms and share updates with their care team between clinic visits. Researchers want to see if this closer monitor…

This study aims to find the best therapy approach to reduce suicide risk in Veterans recently hospitalized for suicidal thoughts or attempts. Researchers will compare a brief, single-session therapy to a longer, 12-session therapy to see which is more effective at improving copin…

This study aims to find the best way to treat Veterans who have PTSD and are at high risk for suicide or self-harm. It will compare two different therapy combinations to see which one works better at reducing suicidal behavior and PTSD symptoms. The research also looks at how to …

This study is testing a new, personalized strategy for managing fluid in veterans on dialysis. It aims to see if using a patient's own recent blood pressure patterns to guide how much fluid is removed is better than the standard approach. The goal is to better control fluid overl…

This study is testing a combined therapy program that addresses both anxiety disorders and alcohol use at the same time for military veterans. The program aims to help 40 veterans improve their daily functioning, social relationships, and overall quality of life. Researchers want…

This study is testing whether a specific type of talk therapy, called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), can help veterans with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It will compare ERP to a general stress management course to see which one better improves daily functioning, …

This study is testing a new combination treatment to help US veterans with PTSD quit smoking. It combines counseling, nicotine patches, and a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called rTMS. The goal is to see if this approach is practical and effective for this specific gro…

This study is testing whether adding a common antifungal drug, itraconazole, to standard chemotherapy and radiation can help eliminate more cancer before surgery for esophageal cancer. Researchers believe the drug may block cancer growth pathways and make tumors more sensitive to…

This study is testing if a prescribed walking boot helps diabetic foot ulcers heal faster and prevents new ones from forming. It will track how often veterans wear the boot and measure changes in their foot sores. The goal is to improve healing times and quality of life for peopl…

This VA study is testing if adding targeted radiation or surgery to standard drug therapy works better for controlling prostate cancer that has spread to a few spots. It will involve about 464 Veterans whose cancer has returned or spread to 1-10 locations. The goal is to see if t…

This study is testing whether having a support person helps Veterans quit smoking. Veterans who smoke will choose a friend or family member to support them, and some support persons will receive special coaching. Researchers will track if this approach helps Veterans use proven q…

This study is testing a new care system designed to improve how fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is found and managed in Veterans. The system automatically flags at-risk patients, calculates their risk scores, and educates their primary care doctors. Researchers will compare this new …

This study is testing whether a genetic test can help doctors better decide which men should be screened for prostate cancer. It will enroll 5,000 male Veterans aged 55-69 to see if the test can accurately identify those at high risk for serious cancer while helping low-risk men …

This study is testing an enhanced support program for service members at high risk of suicide as they leave the military. It will enroll 2,700 participants to see if pairing them with a peer sponsor and connecting them to targeted VA healthcare services can reduce suicide risk, e…

This study is testing a 20-week education and planning program designed to help older Veterans maintain brain health. The program provides information about brain aging and helps participants create a personalized plan to improve lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress …

This study tests whether adding two sessions of alcohol counseling before a standard domestic violence treatment program helps Veterans drink less and reduces violent behavior toward their partners. Researchers will compare three different brief approaches with 300 Veterans who h…

This study is testing if a smart mat that checks foot temperature at home can help prevent painful foot ulcers in Veterans with diabetes. About 800 Veterans with a history of foot ulcers or amputations will use the mat or receive usual care. The goal is to see if early warning fr…

This study is testing a program that pairs young veterans with trained civilian sponsors to help them adjust to life after the military. The goal is to see if this one-on-one support can reduce feelings of isolation and difficulty, and ultimately lower the risk of suicide. The pr…

This study is testing a new digital tool designed to prevent serious skin sores in veterans with spinal cord injuries. The tool asks veterans questions about their risks and gives their doctors a report with recommended actions. Researchers will see if using this tool in clinics …

This study is testing a new group therapy program called Qnnections, designed specifically to prevent suicide in LGBTQ+ Veterans. The program focuses on reducing feelings of loneliness and being a burden by helping Veterans build stronger social connections. Researchers are worki…

This study is testing if a safe, old anti-inflammatory drug called colchicine can prevent serious heart complications after major surgery. It will involve 700 veterans with a history of heart disease who are having surgery. Participants will take either colchicine or a placebo pi…

This study aims to find the best screening method to detect liver cancer early in people with cirrhosis. Researchers will compare standard ultrasound with a faster MRI scan, both done every six months, to see which finds cancer sooner. The goal is to catch cancer at earlier stage…

This study is testing whether a free, short online training called VA S.A.V.E. helps family and friends of Veterans recognize suicide warning signs and connect the Veteran to professional help. Researchers will enroll 710 people who are close to a Veteran and randomly assign them…

This study is testing whether a smartphone app called the Virtual Hope Box can help prevent suicide in Veterans who have recently been hospitalized for a suicidal crisis. The app provides coping tools and support. Researchers will follow 928 Veterans for six months to see if usin…

This large VA study is testing whether metformin, a common diabetes medication, can prevent heart attacks, strokes, and death in veterans who have pre-diabetes and existing heart or blood vessel disease. Over 7,400 participants will receive either metformin or a placebo pill, alo…

This study is testing a special support program called VA BIC to see if it can help prevent suicide in Veterans after they leave mental health treatment outside the VA system. The program involves check-in calls and support to help Veterans feel more connected and engaged with ca…

This study is testing a lightweight, wearable robotic suit (an exoskeleton) designed to help stretch the legs of people with spasticity, a condition of muscle stiffness often caused by spinal cord injury. The goal is to see if the device can safely assist with stretching and move…

This study is testing a new computer tool designed to help physical therapists create more personalized rehabilitation plans for veterans recovering from total knee replacement surgery. Instead of giving everyone the same therapy, the tool uses data to predict an individual's rec…

This study is testing an online program called OurRelationship, designed to help Veteran couples improve their relationship and individual well-being. The program combines self-paced online lessons with short video coaching sessions to teach better communication and conflict skil…

This study is testing a brief program called Omnis Salutis, designed to help recent Veterans manage stress-related conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The program involves three sessions where Veterans learn to communicate their health goals to providers and loved ones…

This study is testing whether a mobile app called PE Coach helps veterans get more benefit from a standard therapy for PTSD. 124 veterans with PTSD will receive therapy, with half using the app to track their therapy homework. Researchers will measure if the app helps improve dai…

This study is testing a special training program for VA doctors to improve care for Veterans with Long-COVID. The training teaches doctors to better listen, validate patients' experiences, and create shared action plans. Researchers will see if this approach leads to better patie…

This study is testing a new method to determine the correct dose for a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment (rTMS) for depression in people with spinal cord injuries. The standard dosing method requires a thumb movement, which many people with these injuries cannot perform. R…

This study is testing a brief, online program designed to help Veterans cope with suicidal thoughts. About 180 Veterans will be randomly assigned to either try the 40-minute web-based program along with their usual care, or to continue with their usual care alone. Researchers wil…

This study is testing a lightweight, portable exoskeleton—a device that straps to the legs—to see if it is safe and practical for improving walking and reducing falls in people with Parkinson's disease. Participants will wear the device while walking under supervision twice a wee…

This study is testing whether taking butyrate capsules, a compound naturally made by gut bacteria, can improve physical function and reduce symptoms in veterans with Gulf War Illness. About 120 veterans aged 40-70 will take either the butyrate supplement or a placebo pill twice d…

This study is testing whether a daily dietary fiber supplement can improve gut health and ease symptoms for Veterans with Gulf War Illness. About 52 participants will take the fiber supplement or maintain their normal diet for four weeks. Researchers will check if the supplement …

This study is testing whether adding special memory support techniques to a standard PTSD therapy helps older Veterans learn and remember the therapy skills better. The goal is to see if this makes the treatment more effective for them. Researchers will work with a small group of…

This study aims to find out if cannabis compounds (THC, CBD, or both) can help reduce chronic nerve pain in Veterans. It will compare these treatments against a placebo in 320 Veteran participants who are not current cannabis users. The goal is to provide clearer evidence on whet…

This study is testing if a single dose of the drug ketamine, given through an IV, can quickly improve depression in veterans with Parkinson's disease. Researchers will compare ketamine to a placebo in 80 veterans to see if it safely reduces depression within a day. They will also…

This study is testing if a special sleep therapy can help women veterans who have both PTSD and insomnia feel more ready to start PTSD treatment. It will compare a therapy focused on improving sleep to a standard educational program. The goal is to see if improving sleep first ma…

This study is testing whether daily growth hormone replacement therapy can improve quality of life for veterans who have both mild traumatic brain injury and adult growth hormone deficiency. The research will compare the hormone treatment against a placebo in 172 veterans over si…

This study is testing whether a special vibration therapy can help people who've had a stroke improve their standing balance. Researchers will have 36 stroke survivors try a 10-week balance training program, where half will receive gentle vibrations on their ankles and feet durin…

This study aims to help Veterans with chronic pain learn about and use non-medication approaches to manage their pain. Veterans will work with a coach to explore their personal values and goals, then identify pain management strategies that fit their lifestyle. The study focuses …

This study tests whether involving family members in PTSD therapy helps Veterans stick with treatment and get better results. Veterans starting standard PTSD therapy will have their family members randomly assigned to receive either a brief 2-session family support program or no …

This study is testing whether a writing-based therapy called Written Exposure Therapy (WET) is practical and acceptable for veterans who have both PTSD and a serious mental illness like bipolar disorder or psychosis. Researchers will work with 48 veterans to see if they can recru…

This study is testing whether adjusting deep brain stimulation (DBS) settings can help improve vision problems in people with Parkinson's disease. Researchers will work with 40 patients who already have DBS implants to see if they can find the best stimulation settings to reduce …

This study is testing whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called rTMS can improve thinking skills in veterans with Parkinson's disease who have mild cognitive problems. Researchers will compare real magnetic stimulation to a sham (fake) treatment in 56 participants…

This study is testing whether an over-the-counter supplement called glutamine can help reduce chronic stomach pain, diarrhea, and bloating in veterans with Gulf War Illness. Researchers will give glutamine or a placebo to 80 veterans to see if it improves their symptoms and helps…

This study is testing two different remote training programs to help Veterans who have had a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The programs, delivered via video calls and smartphone apps, aim to improve skills like memory, focus, and emotional control to help Veterans reach their per…

This study is testing a non-surgical program to help older veterans with a common back condition called lumbar spinal stenosis. The program involves temporarily using a modified rolling walker and adjusting sleep positions to see if it relieves pain and improves walking ability. …

This study aims to help people whose ringing in the ears (tinnitus) changes with head or neck movements. Researchers are testing if personalized physical therapy, sometimes combined with sound therapy, can reduce the problem. They are also developing a simple screening tool to id…

This study is testing whether a specific type of talk therapy, called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Chronic Pain (CBT-CP), can help veterans who have both serious mental illness and chronic back pain. Researchers will compare the therapy to a general health education program i…

This study is testing a new approach to help improve hand strength and function in people with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). Researchers will use a combination of non-invasive magnetic brain stimulation and electrical spinal cord stimulation, tailored to each person, over a two-wee…

This study is testing if a brief writing exercise can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in LGBTQ+ veterans. The therapy involves three sessions where participants write about stressful experiences related to their sexual identity. Researchers want to see if this simp…

This study is testing whether a small, acupuncture-like device placed on the ear can help reduce pain and improve daily function for veterans with fibromyalgia. Researchers will compare the real device to a placebo (sham) device in 240 participants to see if it provides lasting r…

This study is testing an 18-month telehealth program designed to help veterans with leg amputations become more active through walking. The program combines remote coaching, peer support, and self-management training to help participants reduce sedentary time and maintain exercis…

This study is testing whether an 8-week home-based rehabilitation program delivered through video calls can help Veterans who recently finished lung cancer treatment. The program aims to reduce common symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and anxiety while improving physica…

This study is testing whether a prescription smartwatch app called NightWare can improve sleep and heart health in Veterans with PTSD. The app detects when a nightmare is happening using heart rate and movement, and gently interrupts it. Researchers will enroll 125 Veterans to se…

This study is testing a new mobile app designed to help veterans manage phantom limb pain from home. The app guides users through mental exercises, like imagining movement, which may help reduce pain. Researchers are recruiting 36 veterans to see if using the app is practical and…

This VA study is testing whether a gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation technique can reduce light sensitivity in Veterans who have had a mild traumatic brain injury. The small pilot study will enroll 36 participants to see if the treatment is practical and acceptable, and will…

This study is testing a new hybrid pump designed to hold a prosthetic limb more securely and comfortably on a person's residual limb. Researchers will have 20 people who use a prosthetic leg walk on a treadmill to see how the new pump performs. The goal is to see if this new desi…

This study is testing whether a nutritional supplement called nicotinamide riboside (a form of vitamin B3) can help improve strength, walking speed, and overall physical function in older veterans. Researchers will enroll 144 healthy adults aged 65-85 to take either the supplemen…

This study is testing a new, smarter approach to nerve stimulation for Veterans with bladder control problems caused by spinal cord injuries or other neurological conditions. Researchers are using a small, wireless sensor placed in the bladder to detect when it's filling and then…

This study is testing whether a special driving simulator training program helps veteran stroke survivors improve their driving skills and safety. One hundred veterans who have had a stroke will try both a targeted training program and a basic simulator familiarization program to…

This study is testing whether group exercise classes over video calls are a practical and helpful way for veterans with knee or hip arthritis to stay active. It will enroll 50 inactive veterans to follow a 3-month exercise program, then a 6-month maintenance phase with text remin…

This study is testing a new, advanced prosthetic system for people with an arm amputation. Researchers are implanting small devices on nerves and muscles to wirelessly connect to a smart prosthetic hand. The goal is to see if this system allows users to move the hand more natural…

This study is creating and testing a telehealth workbook designed to help Veterans with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) manage their thinking problems and improve daily life. Researchers are first interviewing Veterans to design the workbook, then will have a small group…

This study is testing two different exercise schedules for Veterans with moderate Parkinson's disease. It compares a high-volume schedule (intense weeks followed by rest) to a steady, moderate weekly schedule. The goal is to see which approach better improves walking speed, daily…

This study is testing whether a new motorized prosthetic knee helps people with above-knee limb loss move better than a standard knee. Researchers will compare how 20 participants walk, go up stairs, and stand up while using each type of knee. The goal is to see if the powered kn…

This study is testing whether a home-based program combining walking with Tai Chi exercises can help Veterans with COPD (a lung disease) who also have long-term muscle or joint pain. The program is delivered online and aims to improve how much people can walk and move around, whi…

This study is testing whether a year-long yoga-based exercise program can help veterans with serious mental health conditions function better in their daily lives. Researchers will compare the yoga program to a general wellness program to see which helps more with social activiti…

This study is testing a short therapy program designed to help veterans who intentionally harm themselves without suicidal intent. The therapy aims to replace self-harm with healthier behaviors and improve how veterans function in their daily lives. Researchers will work with 40 …

This study is testing a new mobile phone app designed to help reduce suicidal thoughts in Veterans. The app, called MIST, uses special exercises to help change unhelpful thinking patterns linked to suicide risk. The main goal of this small pilot study is to see if the app is easy…

This study is testing whether a home-based exercise program delivered through video calls can help Veterans who have recovered from COVID-19 improve their breathing, fitness, and physical strength. Researchers will work with 80 Veterans who had COVID-19 more than 90 days ago and …

This study is developing and testing a video-based program to help older Veterans at risk of losing their ability to do daily tasks. The program uses 'behavioral activation,' a method that helps people get more involved in activities they value. Researchers will first get feedbac…

This study is testing whether the drug tadalafil can help reduce shortness of breath in Veterans who have both COPD and high blood pressure in their lungs. 126 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either tadalafil or a placebo pill for six months, and neither they no…

This study is testing a short telehealth program designed to help Veterans who have had a concussion and are also experiencing ongoing mental health symptoms like stress or depression. The program teaches practical problem-solving skills to help manage daily challenges and improv…

This VA study is testing whether adding Whole Health Coaching to standard pain management helps veterans with chronic pain. The coaching focuses on personal health goals across eight areas of wellness to improve daily function and reduce opioid-related safety concerns. Researcher…

This study is testing a backward walking training program to help people recover walking speed and balance after a stroke. Researchers will compare two different amounts of training (18 vs. 27 sessions) and use brain scans to see how the brain changes with training. The goal is t…

This study tests whether a specific talk therapy for depression, delivered via video calls to veterans at home, can help them get back to their normal activities and improve their mood after being hospitalized for a heart condition. It will compare 12 sessions of this home-based …

This study is testing two new walking training programs designed to help Veterans with leg amputation from diabetes or poor circulation walk more evenly. Researchers want to see if these training methods, which give specific feedback about walking patterns, can improve balance, r…

This VA study is testing whether giving simple, personal hearing amplifiers to veterans with hearing difficulty during emergency room visits helps them hear and understand their discharge instructions better. The goal is to see if this small help can reduce the chance they need t…

This study is testing a new manual wheelchair design that works like a multi-speed bicycle. It aims to reduce shoulder pain and strain for people who use wheelchairs due to spinal cord injuries. Researchers will have 30 veterans try different gear settings to see which makes push…

This study is testing whether a special sound therapy can reduce the loudness and impact of tinnitus, the constant ringing or buzzing in the ears that affects many Veterans. Researchers will give 108 participants small ear devices that play different types of background noise for…

This study is testing whether small implanted electrodes can restore feeling in the feet of people with diabetic nerve damage or limb loss. Researchers will implant devices that send gentle electrical signals to nerves, aiming to recreate natural foot sensations. The goal is to i…

This study is testing whether a small, handheld device that gently stimulates a nerve in the neck can help reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans. Participants use the device at home twice a day for three months. Researchers will measure changes in brain activity, stress responses, and…

This study is testing a two-part treatment for veterans who have both chronic low back pain and depression. The goal is to see if giving ketamine infusions followed by a brief therapy program is safe, practical, and acceptable to participants. Researchers will measure if this app…

This study is testing whether a non-invasive device that gently stimulates a major nerve (the vagus nerve) can help Veterans struggling with alcohol use disorder. The goal is to see if this stimulation can reduce withdrawal symptoms, anxiety, and cravings, which may help improve …

This study is testing a 24-week home-based rehabilitation program for older veterans who have multiple chronic health problems and difficulty with physical tasks. The program combines guided exercise, self-management coaching, social support, and technology to help improve streng…

This study is testing a brief 3-session therapy called MERA that teaches emotion regulation skills to help veterans with PTSD reduce aggressive behavior. The research will compare MERA to standard care in 204 combat veterans who have served since 9/11 and struggle with aggression…

This study is testing if methylphenidate (a stimulant medication often used for ADHD) can help Veterans with PTSD who struggle with concentration, memory, and keeping up with tasks. Over 20 weeks, 70 participants will alternate between taking the medication and a placebo (inactiv…

This study is testing whether home-based physical and mental exercises, delivered remotely via telemedicine, can help reduce chronic pain in people with Parkinson's disease. Researchers will enroll 166 Veterans with Parkinson's and chronic pain to try different combinations of th…

This study is creating and testing a 12-week online exercise program designed specifically for women veterans who have experienced sexual violence. The program aims to improve physical function, mental health, and overall quality of life by providing a safe, trauma-informed appro…

This study is testing a new home-based virtual reality program to help Veterans who have vision problems after a traumatic brain injury. The program uses VR games and exercises to try to improve near vision, which can help with reading, using phones, and daily tasks. Researchers …

This study is exploring whether a mindfulness program can be adapted and delivered using virtual reality (VR) to help veterans with spinal cord injuries manage chronic pain. Researchers will first work with a small group of veterans to identify needed changes to the program, then…

This study is testing a new type of exercise therapy for people with Parkinson's disease that can be done remotely. Researchers want to see if using a specially designed stationary bike, which can be monitored and adjusted by a therapist over the internet, can improve movement, b…

This study is testing a special strength training method for people with advanced multiple sclerosis (MS) who use canes, walkers, or wheelchairs. The method uses a cuff to partially restrict blood flow during low-intensity leg exercises, which may help build strength without caus…

This study is testing a new workshop designed to help veterans in their first few years after leaving the military. The goal is to provide skills for civilian life, connect them to VA healthcare, and reduce their risk of suicide. Researchers will enroll 120 veterans to see if the…

This study is testing a surgically implanted device that uses small electrical pulses to activate trunk and hip muscles in people with spinal cord injuries. The goal is to see if this 'neuroprosthesis' can improve seated posture, balance, breathing, and the ability to perform dai…

This study is testing whether a device that gently stimulates a nerve in the neck can help veterans who have both mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and PTSD. Researchers want to see if using the device improves memory and reduces PTSD symptoms. They will measure changes in brain…

This study is testing a convenient home exercise program for Veterans with peripheral artery disease (PAD), which causes painful leg cramps when walking. Instead of traveling to a clinic, participants will use a wearable activity monitor and get remote coaching to follow a walkin…

This study is testing which of three different group talk therapies works best to reduce chronic pain for older veterans when delivered by video call from home. Researchers are comparing standard Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with newer approaches: Mindfulness Meditation and…

This study is testing whether a therapy program delivered partly through a mobile phone app can help homeless veterans with serious mental illness feel more connected to their communities. The program combines in-person counseling with remote support. Fifty veterans will be rando…

This study is testing whether a brief writing therapy can help veterans who are dealing with both post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use problems. Veterans in standard addiction treatment will be randomly assigned to either write about a traumatic experience or a…

This study is testing whether bright light therapy glasses can help reduce daytime sleepiness in people with obstructive sleep apnea who still feel tired despite using their CPAP machines. Researchers will enroll 60 participants who will wear either active light therapy glasses o…

This study is testing whether a brain training program that combines strategy coaching with attention exercises can help veterans with mild brain injury and PTSD improve their thinking skills and ability to handle daily tasks. Researchers are comparing whether delivering this tra…

This study is testing a new support program called Hospital GamePlan4Care, designed to help family and friends who care for Veterans with dementia. The program provides online training, a handbook, and calls with a specialist to build caregiving skills during the stressful transi…

This study is testing whether a 12-week program of supervised aerobic and balance exercises can improve balance, mobility, and reduce fall risk in Veterans who have a moderate narrowing of their carotid artery but no symptoms. Researchers will compare the exercise program to stan…

This study is testing a new computer training program designed to help veterans who have both a mild brain injury and PTSD. The program teaches people to better recognize emotions in other people's faces and voices, and includes exercises to improve attention. Researchers want to…

This study is testing a mobile phone app designed to help veterans with PTSD manage anger problems. Researchers will compare the anger management app to a general health education app in 150 veterans. The goal is to see if the specialized app is better at reducing anger and impro…

This study is testing a computer-based brain training program for veterans with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. The goal is to see if this training can improve thinking skills, reduce symptoms, and help with daily life activities. Researche…

This study is testing a new social skills training program designed to help Veterans with serious mental health conditions. The program teaches skills for understanding social cues and navigating work relationships, aiming to improve job success and quality of life. Researchers a…

This study is comparing a newer surgical technique called Ewing Amputation to the standard method for Veterans needing a below-knee amputation due to poor circulation. The goal is to see if the newer technique helps Veterans walk better, improves their balance, and reduces pain a…

This study aims to improve prosthetic hands by giving users a sense of where their artificial limb is in space, a feeling called proprioception. Researchers will test small electrical nerve stimulations in 6 veterans with arm amputations to see if they can create this natural pos…

This study aims to understand how reducing cannabis use affects the daily lives and functioning of veterans with PTSD. Researchers will observe 40 veterans who currently use cannabis frequently, tracking their cannabis use, daily activities, and quality of life in real time. The …

This study aims to find out if repeat colonoscopies after age 75 help prevent colorectal cancer in older adults who previously had precancerous polyps removed. Researchers will compare cancer risks in over 130,000 older Veterans and gather patient and doctor opinions. The goal is…

This study aims to understand why people with a common type of heart failure get tired so easily during exercise. Researchers will compare veterans with this condition to healthy people and then have the veterans do 8 weeks of leg-strengthening exercises. The goal is to see if th…

This study aims to understand how a moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI) from many years ago might affect a person's balance and thinking skills as they get older. Researchers will compare 70 Veterans aged 50-75, some with a past TBI and some without, using balance and cognitive…

This study aims to understand how a prosthetic leg socket moves against a person's residual limb during activities like walking. Researchers will use a special, high-speed X-ray system to precisely measure bone and skin movement inside the socket while participants walk on a trea…

This small pilot study aims to understand if a single dose of testosterone given as a nasal spray can quickly improve nerve and heart function in male veterans with spinal cord injury. Researchers will measure muscle and heart rate responses in 15 men (10 with injury, 5 without) …

This study aims to find out why some stroke survivors improve their walking with intense exercise therapy while others do not. Researchers will test 55 Veterans to see if simple blood tests and brain scans taken before and during therapy can predict who will get better. The goal …

This study aims to understand why people with Parkinson's disease lose their balance and fall, which is a major problem with no good treatments. Researchers will have 100 Veterans with Parkinson's wear sensors at home to track their movements and will also record brain signals fr…

This study aims to understand if sleep disturbances, including sleep apnea, make long COVID symptoms like severe fatigue and thinking problems worse. Researchers will observe 200 adults who have had COVID-19, tracking their sleep, memory, and energy levels over time. The goal is …

This study aims to improve access to skin care for veterans by testing a new mobile app. The app allows new patients at three VA hospitals to send photos of their skin directly to a dermatologist instead of waiting for an in-person visit. Researchers will also use the photos to t…

This study aims to understand how a person's mood, brain inflammation, and body inflammation are connected to pain in veterans with fibromyalgia. Researchers will enroll 60 veterans, some with fibromyalgia and some without, to undergo brain scans, blood tests, and pain assessment…

This study aims to develop brain-based tools to help identify which veterans with schizophrenia are most likely to benefit from cognitive training and rehabilitation programs. Researchers will measure brain activity in 80 veterans to find patterns that predict how well someone mi…

This study aims to understand if Veterans who have had mild to moderate head injuries are at higher risk for developing dementia later in life. Researchers will compare 800 participants—some with past head injuries, some with early memory concerns, and some healthy—by testing the…

This study aims to understand how a rigid, perfectionistic thinking style common in veterans relates to social difficulties and suicide risk. Researchers will recruit about 74 trauma-exposed veterans to test methods like brain scans and weekly surveys. The goal is to gather infor…

This study aims to find the most effective way to train therapists to deliver Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), a proven treatment for PTSD. Researchers will test different training components and sequences with 240 VA mental health clinicians to see which methods help therapis…

This study aims to understand if having both obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) causes more thinking and memory problems than having just one of these conditions. Researchers will enroll 108 older veterans to compare their thinking skil…

This large study analyzes health records from 400,000 U.S. veterans to understand how well different COVID-19, RSV, and influenza treatments and vaccines work in real-world settings. Researchers will compare who received which medications and track health outcomes like hospitaliz…