MedTrace Logo

Non-Medication Methods to Relieve Adolescents with Somatoform Disorders

NCT06865833 · Status: RECRUITING · Type: OBSERVATIONAL · Enrollment: 50

Last updated 2025-03-10

No results posted yet for this study

Summary

This research aims to investigate the effects of Tai Chi and relaxation techniques on adolescents (12-19 years old) with chronic somatoform disorders. These disorders are characterized by unexplained physical symptoms, such as abdominal pain and headaches, that cannot be linked to any identifiable medical condition. Adolescents with these disorders often experience frequent medical consultations, hospitalizations, and a negative impact on their daily lives, including school attendance, social interactions, and family relationships.

Tai Chi, a non-medicinal mind-body practice, has shown promise in reducing chronic pain, stress, and anxiety in both children and adults. Given its non-violent, accessible nature, Tai Chi is an appealing option for adolescents experiencing somatoform symptoms. It is believed that Tai Chi can help alleviate physical pain, manage stress, and improve mood, thus enhancing the adolescents' overall quality of life.

The main objective of this study is to quantify the changes in somatoform symptoms, pain levels, medication use, healthcare visits (including emergency consultations), school absenteeism, and the overall quality of life before and after five weeks of Tai Chi sessions. Secondary objectives include evaluating the reduction of anxiety and depression through standardized questionnaires, such as the HAD scale. Additionally, the study will gather qualitative data to assess the motivations, benefits, and barriers to practicing Tai Chi among the adolescents.

The research will involve adolescents from the Trousseau Hospital's adolescent medicine unit. Data will be collected prospectively, providing important insights that may pave the way for future randomized controlled trials. This study hopes to offer a new, non-medical approach to managing chronic somatoform disorders and improving the well-being of adolescents affected by them.

Conditions

  • Chronic Somatoform Disorders in Adolescents

Interventions

OTHER

Tai Chi and Relaxation Intervention

This Tai Chi and Relaxation Intervention specifically targets adolescents with chronic somatoform disorders, utilizing a combination of mind-body practices designed to reduce pain and alleviate psychological distress. The intervention is distinct in the following ways: Target Population: It focuses specifically on adolescents aged 12-19 years experiencing unexplained physical symptoms, such as chronic pain, headaches, and fatigue, that are not attributable to any identifiable medical condition. Non-pharmacological Approach: Unlike traditional medical treatments that may involve medications or invasive procedures, this intervention is entirely non-medical, aiming to address both the physical and psychological aspects of chronic somatoform disorders without using drugs. Structured Workshops: The intervention consists of weekly Tai Chi and relaxation workshops (1 hour 15 minutes per session) over a 5-week period. The approach emphasizes gentle, controlled movements, relaxation techniqu

Sponsors & Collaborators

  • Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris

    lead OTHER

Eligibility

Min Age
12 Years
Max Age
19 Years
Sex
ALL
Healthy Volunteers
No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start
2024-03-06
Primary Completion
2025-10-04
Completion
2025-10-04

Countries

  • France

Study Locations

More Related Trials

Read the full study record

This page highlights key information. For complete eligibility criteria, study locations, investigator contacts, and the full protocol, visit the original record on ClinicalTrials.gov.

View NCT06865833 on ClinicalTrials.gov