Pain Research Center

A National Institutes of Health (NIH) intramural research program (IRP) research core and hub, the Pain Research Center (NIHPRC), led by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), fosters collaborative cutting-edge clinical and translational pain research across the NIH IRP.

Mission

The NIHPRC conducts transformative pain research including the development and use of innovative pain phenotyping that focuses on the mechanisms of pain, including those in patients with rare and unique pain states. The NIHPRC also tests novel pain therapeutics (both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic) to improve pain management and prevent the transition from acute pain to chronic pain and opioid abuse. The study of pain, individuals’ response to therapies, and outcomes is guided by a whole person health perspective. In collaboration with other Institutes and Centers (ICs) at NIH, we aim to support the overall mission of NCCIH by advancing scientific understanding and clinical integration of complementary and integrative nondrug approaches for the management of chronic pain. 

Vision

The collaborative and interdisciplinary research we conduct and support will lead to a better understanding of pain, leading to effective, innovative approaches that will reduce the burden of pain, enhance overall well-being, and restore quality of life for all patients.