Our team conducts research in brain-gut behavioral therapies. Our primary intervention teaches patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome a variety of strategies including relaxation, healthy thought patterns, sleep, stress management, and diet as a way to manage symptoms. The primary intervention was developed by Dr. Margaret Heitkemper and her team. Together we are enhancing the intervention by transitioning it to a digital format and expanding its reach to those with inflammatory bowel disease. Preliminary data will be available in Fall 2025.
Study Overview
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Objective: To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of a tailored self-management program (CSM-IBD) for adults with IBD.
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Intervention Details: The CSM-IBD program consists of 8 sessions delivered over 8 to 12 weeks. Each session includes check-ins with a registered nurse and covers topics such as symptom tracking, relaxation, sleep hygiene, and dietary guidance.
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Participants: The study aims to enroll 54 adults aged 18 to 75 years who are experiencing at least two IBD-related symptoms. Participants will be randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio to either the CSM-IBD program or usual care.
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Outcomes Measured: The primary outcomes include the feasibility of recruitment, randomization, and data collection, as well as the acceptability of the intervention. Secondary outcomes focus on changes in quality of life and symptom severity, assessed at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and three months post-intervention.
Our published protocol is available online.