Human Research Coordination

Researchers at the University of Delaware are exploring how pain may help or hurt the learning of new movements, such as walking.

If you are between 55-90 years old, in generally good health, and are willing to participate in two 2-hour testing sessions on consecutive days at the UD STAR Campus (540 S. College Ave, Newark, DE 19713), you may be eligible.

Testing will consist of several short bouts of walking on a treadmill and completion of questionnaires. We will schedule the testing sessions at a time that is convenient for you.

You may be randomized into a group that receives an experimental pain stimulus on your leg or a group that receives nothing. The experimental pain consists of applying capsaicin (the chemical in spicy peppers that makes them hot) and a heat wrap on your lower leg, which is expected to be painful but is not harmful. If randomized into this group, you would only receive the capsaicin + heat on the first day of testing. You can stop participating at any point if you feel pain beyond your tolerance.

You will be compensated up to $50 for completing the study.

To be eligible, you must:
-Be 55-90 years old
-Not have any serious medical conditions
-Not have any skin sensitivities
-Attend 2 testing session on consecutive days, lasting ~2 hours each day

Final eligibility will be determined prior to enrollment

To learn more, send an email to RNP-Lab@udel.edu, or complete our consent to contact link.