NCT07756541 · University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
POP SINGER Randomized Clinical Trial
(POP SINGER RCT)
What this study is about
Conduct a feasibility randomly assigned controlled trial (N = 130, 65 per group) comparing the POPSINGER music therapy (MT) intervention to yoga.
View original scientific description
Conduct a feasibility randomized controlled trial (N = 130, 65 per group) comparing the POPSINGER music therapy (MT) intervention to yoga.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Yoga
A registered yoga therapist will lead a total of sixteen (16) 60 minute classes over 8 weeks, plus guidance and resources for weekly home practice. Each yoga practice includes postural awareness, breathing practices, physical postures, moving sequences, progressive relaxation, and mental focusing. Philosophical concepts are introduced in each class, including non-harming, gratitude, and self-compassion. Physical practices include standing, seated, and optional floor-based poses that focus on building strength, mobility, and balance. For each practice, a range of options are provided for individuals to select according to their level of physical function and comfort. Props for adapting poses include yoga blocks, straps, blankets, and chairs. Practices are introduced slowly over the 8-week program to ensure safe execution and facilitate self-efficacy.
BEHAVIORAL
Music Therapy
A board-certified music therapist will provide a total of 16 MT sessions (8 in-person and 8 virtual) that include education, social connection, and experiential music interventions. These sessions will focus on self-management of pain through evidenced-based MT interventions including music sharing, playlists using the iso-principle, music making, music and guided imagery, music and deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and adapted cardio drumming.
Primary outcome measures
Number of participants retained as measured by enrollment logs
Time frame: 8 weeks from the first music therapy or yoga intervention
A retention rate of ≥70% of recruited participants until the final survey time point.
Number of sessions attended per participant as measured by attendance logs
Time frame: 8 weeks from the first music therapy or yoga intervention
An attendance rate of ≥11/16 sessions among ≥70% of retained participants.
Number of participants completing follow-up measures as measured by data collection logs
Time frame: 8 weeks from the first music therapy or yoga intervention
A measure completion rate of ≥70% of follow-up measures among retained participants.
Number of participants reporting daily music or yoga exercise use in REDCap exercise logs
Time frame: 8 weeks from the first music therapy or yoga intervention
≥60% of retained participants reporting use of music or yoga exercises at least once every other day.
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
- Adults aged 18 and older
- Reporting pain on most days per month for a duration of ≥3 months
- Independently ambulatory (i.e., able to walk 10 feet without a cane or walker)
- Willing to participate in the full scope of the program
- Access to internet, active email address, \& laptop, tablet, and/or PC with videoconferencing capabilities
- Have reliable access to a mobile device with an active data plan at home and is comfortable accessing the internet and their email with this device
- Able to read and understand English
Exclusion criteria
- Significant hearing and/or visual impairment
- Have had a major surgery (e.g., spine surgery, joint replacement) within the past 6 months
- Have a planned surgery within the next 6 months at the time of enrollment
- Unable to independently provide consent (i.e., no proxy consent)
- Active suicidal ideation
- Severe psychological comorbidity (e.g., psychosis, schizophrenia) that would prevent patient from engaging fully in intervention
- Receiving active cancer treatment.
- Diagnosed with medical condition likely to be terminal within 24 weeks
- Either (a) active substance abuse of cocaine, heroin, cannabis, or alcohol or (b) unmanaged opioid use disorder diagnosis present within the EHR in the last 6 months
- Currently receiving music therapy from a professional music therapist
- Currently engaged in regular weekly yoga practice
Where
- Cleveland, Ohio
Collaborators
Kulas Foundation
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 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations