NCT07217821 · Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine
Stepped-Care Intervention of Music and Imagery to Assess Relief (SCIMITAR) Trial
(SCIMITAR)
What this study is about
Th Stepped-Care Intervention of Music and Imagery to Assess Relief (SCIMITAR) Trial. SCIMITAR builds on our pilot study, the Feasibility and Acceptability of Music Imagery and Listening Interventions for Analgesia (FAMILIA), which demonstrated that telehealth delivery of music listening (ML) and music imagery (MI) interventions is feasible and acceptable to Veterans with chronic musculoskeletal pain. SCIMITAR leverages what we learned from FAMILIA into a fully powered trial, harnessing the benefits of sequential ML and MI into a stepped-care, music therapy intervention via telehealth for Veterans needing relief from pain.
View original scientific description
Th Stepped-Care Intervention of Music and Imagery to Assess Relief (SCIMITAR) Trial. SCIMITAR builds on our pilot study, the Feasibility and Acceptability of Music Imagery and Listening Interventions for Analgesia (FAMILIA), which demonstrated that telehealth delivery of music listening (ML) and music imagery (MI) interventions is feasible and acceptable to Veterans with chronic musculoskeletal pain. SCIMITAR leverages what we learned from FAMILIA into a fully powered trial, harnessing the benefits of sequential ML and MI into a stepped-care, music therapy intervention via telehealth for Veterans needing relief from pain.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Stepped-care
Music listening in Step 1 and Music and imagery in step 2
Primary outcome measures
Brief Pain Inventory - Pain Interference
Time frame: baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months
Assesses how pain interferes with 7 activities of daily living
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- musculoskeletal pain in the low back, cervical spine, or extremities (hips, knees, or shoulders) for ≥ 3 months
- at least moderate pain severity, defined as a PEG score ≥ 4 on a 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain)
- access to computer, tablet, or smartphone
- ability to pass a technology assessment
Exclusion criteria
- Past month hospitalization for medical or psychiatric illness
- housing insecurity
- suicidal ideation with current intent/plan
- hearing or cognitive impairment that may interfere with music listening or abstract thinking needed for imagery work
- currently receiving music therapy services
Where
- Indianapolis, Indiana
Collaborators
Indiana Institute for Medical Research
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 16, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations