NCT06493903 · Boston University Charles River Campus
Positive Minds Strong Joints for Knee Osteoarthritis
(PMSJ)
What this study is about
The aim of this research study is to test the feasibility of a physical and mental health intervention (Positive Minds, Strong Joints or PMSJ) for Black adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA).
View original scientific description
The aim of this research study is to test the feasibility of a physical and mental health intervention (Positive Minds, Strong Joints or PMSJ) for Black adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA).
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
- BMI ≤ 40 kg/m2
- Self-identify as Black (including African American)
- Knee pain ≥4/10 on a 11 numeric scale over the past week
- Scored 5 or more on either the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and/or the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item Scale (GAD-7)
- Can speak and understand English at a sufficient level to understand the study procedures and informed consent
- Available for study duration
- Able to attend remote sessions
Exclusion criteria
- Knee, hip or ankle replacement
- Intra-articular corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid knee injection within 3 months
- Knee surgery within past 6 months
- Currently receiving or received within 3-months any PT for knee OA
- Currently receiving or received within 3 months any mental health intervention (excluding pharmacologic treatments)
- Planning to initiate physical therapy for joint or low back pain in the next 3months
- Planning to initiate any mental health treatment (excluding pharmacologic treatments) in the next 1 month.
- Systemic inflammatory arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
- Neurologic conditions (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease, etc.)
- Contraindications to starting an exercise program.
- Suspected substance abuse
- Lack capacity to consent
- Pregnancy (self-report)
- Participation in another clinical trial for any joint or muscle pain
- Planning for a major surgery in the next 6 months
- Having high risk mental health symptoms (active suicidality, bipolar disorder, mania, psychosis, schizophrenia)
- Receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer (except non-melanoma skin cancer)
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 May 16, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations