NCT05701982 · VA Office of Research and Development
The Effect of a Technology-Mediated Integrated Walking and Tai Chi Intervention on Physical Function in Veterans With COPD and Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain
(WATCH for Pain)
What this study is about
Persons with COPD benefit from being physically active, but they are often limited by chronic musculoskeletal pain. This project will determine whether a non-pharmacologic, integrated, technology-mediated walking and Tai Chi mindfulness intervention can improve physical function in Veterans with COPD and chronic musculoskeletal pain.
View original scientific description
Persons with COPD benefit from being physically active, but they are often limited by chronic musculoskeletal pain. This project will determine whether a non-pharmacologic, integrated, technology-mediated walking and Tai Chi mindfulness intervention can improve physical function in Veterans with COPD and chronic musculoskeletal pain. The proposed research addresses VA Rehabilitation R\&D Service's high priority area of improving health-related quality of life by reducing disease burden and maximizing function in Veterans with chronic disease.
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
- Male and female participants, aged 40 and older
- Clinical diagnosis of COPD defined as history of cigarette consumption of \> 10 pack-years, and either a ratio of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) to forced vital capacity (FVC) \< 0.70 or chest computerized tomography (CT) evidence of emphysema\
- Numeric Rating Scale pain score \> 3 for \> 3 months
- Self-reported ability to walk a minimum of one block, bend at the hip, and transfer weight from one leg to another
- Ability to complete 800 feet walk with Fitbit Inspire-2 recording \> 90% accuracy to detect steps compared to manual counts\
- Have access to a computer or smartphone with Internet connection or willing to come to study site to use study computers
- Have access to videoconferencing audio and video capabilities
- Competent to provide informed consent and willingness to make return study visits
- Different criteria are used if baseline study visit is a virtual one.
Exclusion criteria
- COPD exacerbation in the previous 1 month
- Clinical signs of unstable cardiovascular disease (active coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, uncontrolled atrial fibrillation, or uncontrolled hypertension)
- Oxygen saturation \< 85% recorded on baseline 4-meter walk\
- High fall risk (unable to perform 5 chair stand tests)
- Inability to ambulate
- Inability to complete questionnaires
- Inability to collect at least 7 of 10 days of baseline step counts
- Active substance abuse
- Participation in a regular exercise (i.e., MOVE! or Gerofit) or Tai Chi program in the previous 3 months
- Concurrent participation in another interventional research study
- Receipt of hospice or end-of-life palliative care
- Active medical intervention that would cause a meaningful increase in pain such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy
- Different criteria are used if baseline study visit is a virtual one.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
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 Jan 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations