People with chronic low
back pain (verified by doctor diagnosis) and their spouses will participate
together in this study. It is not
necessary that couples believe they are in a troubled relationship.
Many couples participate simply because they are interested in this kind of
research. This is not a therapy study.
Participation in this
study involves attending two sessions at the Marital Therapy & Research
Clinic. These sessions will take approximately 1.5 hours each.
Couples will discuss important topics that come up in their marriage, and
the person with chronic pain will perform tasks involving simple movements
(bending, sitting) while his or her spouse observes. Both spouses will also
complete a set of questionnaires. We will pay each spouse $100 for
completing both sessions ($200 total for each couple).
Couples interested in
this study can call the Clinic, (574) 208-3847, or email, kblomeke@nd.edu, for more information and to
arrange an appointment. We are located in South Bend across from the Notre
Dame campus. Inquiries, participation, and information collected as part of
this study will be kept in the strictest of confidence. No information
provided by study participants will be shared with spouses.
For additional
information, please feel free to contact Dr. David Smith by phone, (574)
631-7763, or email.
