The purpose of the WATCH (Walking and Tai Chi for Pain) research study is to examine ways to increase physical activity in persons with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and chronic musculoskeletal pain. To do so, we are looking at two different methods: using a combined website, pedometer, and Tai Chi program, or using written instructions. WATCH is funded by VA Rehabilitation Research & Development.
During this study, you will be asked to slowly and steadily increase the amount of walking you do over 6 months. Although you will be in the intervention for 6 months, you may be in the study for up to 12 months when you will have a virtual study visit. You have been assigned to the group who will wear a pedometer every day and use this website. You will also watch Tai Chi videos and participate in group Tai Chi classes virtually. The classes are video conferenced so you can participate from your home. There will be other Veterans on the screen with you. You will be paid up to $250 in total and will receive a Fitbit pedometer to keep after you complete the study.
We are enrolling Veterans who live anywhere in the United States. The entire study is conducted remotely using video calls on Webex (which is like Zoom). Participation in the study involves up to five separate virtual visits over 12 months. At each visit you will complete several questionnaires with the study staff.
If you have any other questions about the WATCH study, contact the VA Boston study staff during working hours (7:30 am-4:00 pm EST) at 857-203-5160 or 857-203-6655
The Study Team:
(1) VA Boston Healthcare System
Marilyn Moy, MD, MSc – Principal Investigator
Josie Decherd, MPH – Research Coordinator
Erin Dracup, BA – Research Assistant
Avani Agrawal, BS – Research Assistant
Kaavya Sethumadhavan, BS – Research Assistant
(2) University of Michigan
Laurie Buis, PhD – Site Principal Investigator
Reema Kadri, MA– Research Coordinator
Michael L. Hess, MS – Senior Technical Analyst
(3) Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Gloria Yeh, MD, MPH – Co-Investigator
(4) VA Durham Medical Center
Diana Higgins, PhD – Co-Investigator