NCT07755540 · Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine
Group Music Therapy for Chronic Pain Management in Active Duty Service Members: A Randomized Controlled Trial
What this study is about
This randomly assigned controlled trial will evaluate the effectiveness of an 8-week group music therapy intervention for active duty service members with chronic pain. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a group music therapy intervention plus standard care or standard care alone. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, post- treatment (8 weeks), and 1-month follow-up.
View original scientific description
This randomized controlled trial will evaluate the effectiveness of an 8-week group music therapy intervention for active duty service members with chronic pain. Participants will be randomized to either a group music therapy intervention plus standard care or standard care alone. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, post- treatment (8 weeks), and 1-month follow-up. Primary outcomes include pain interference and pain intensity. Secondary outcomes include pain-related self-efficacy, depression, anxiety, positive affect, sleep disturbance, patient perception of change, and pain medication use. Qualitative interviews will be conducted with a subset of participants who receive music therapy to explore subjective experiences and perceived treatment benefits.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Music intervention
An 8-week standardized music therapy protocol delivered in weekly 75-minute group sessions. The intervention is guided by a biopsychosocial framework and includes music-guided breathing, relaxation exercises, group improvisation, processing of music experiences, meaningful music listening, and home practice of music-based pain management skills.
Primary outcome measures
Pain Intensity
Time frame: Baseline, Week 8, and 1-Month Follow-Up as well as pre and post- session
As measured by the Defense and Veterans Pain Rating Scale (DVPRS), where each item is scored 0-10 and a higher total score indicates a worse outcome.
Pain Interference
Time frame: Baseline, Week 8, and 1-Month Follow-Up
As measured by the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Pain Interference 8-item Scale, where each item is scored 1-5 and a higher total score indicates a worse outcome.
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
- Active duty service member
- Age 18 -64 years of age
- Diagnosis of chronic benign pain for at least 3 months
- Average pain severity greater than 4/10 on the Defense and Veterans Pain Rating Scale
- Able to read and understand English
Exclusion criteria
- Mental health conditions that would prevent compliance with or productive participation in group sessions
- Cognitive impairment preventing completion of study measures
- Malignant disease
- Progressive neurological disorder
- Moderate to profound hearing impairment not corrected with hearing aids
- Previous participation in music therapy services at JBER
Where
- Anchorage, Alaska
Collaborators
Drexel University, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson
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 Aug 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations