Division of Intramural Research

The Division of Intramural Research Program (DIR) at NCCAM conducts basic, clinical, and translational research focusing on the role of the brain in perceiving, modifying, and managing pain. Research projects include investigating the role of the brain in pain processing and control, and how factors such as emotion, attention, environment, and genetics affect pain perception. The program includes research that explores how chronic pain produces changes in the brain that can modify how the brain reacts to pain medications like opioids. Commonly used complementary practices to control pain, such as meditation and yoga, are also investigated. 

The program is an integrated basic science and clinical research effort, conducted at the behavioral, systems and cellular levels, exploiting the state-of-the-art research tools and resources at the NIH. Projects involve collaborative efforts with other intramural neuroscience, imaging, and mental and behavioral health research programs. Chronic pain disorders studied include fibromyalgia, back pain, irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis and more. The NCCAM DIR provides a rich environment for the training and development of clinical and basic scientists.

Research Results: NCCAM Review Analyzes Evidence on Brain Effects from Chronic Pain and Mind and Body Approaches (5/30/13)

Research Results: Yoga Practice May Improve Pain Tolerance and Alter Brain Anatomy (5/21/13)

Video: Neural Basis of Mind-Body Pain Therapies [7min 37sec]
presented by Dr. Catherine Bushnell

Article: NIH Program Probes Neurological Basis of Chronic Pain, Complementary Therapies

Audio Interview: NCCAM Intramural Pain Research Program—Researching Pain and Treatment Approaches (10.47MB)