A team of researchers from the University of Illinois Chicago, Duke University,  University of Florida, Johns Hopkins University, and Emory University are running a research study called the Hybrid Effectiveness-Implementation Trial of Guided Relaxation and Acupuncture for Chronic Sickle Cell Disease Pain, also known as the GRACE TRIAL.

The GRACE Trial is a real-world research study of different ways to manage pain for people with sickle cell disease. To learn more about the GRACE Trial click the link: https://vimeo.com/781836727/7a1f3c33cf

Procedures
Participants will complete surveys online or over the phone. The survey questions will be about level of pain and quality of life at the start of the study, then again at 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks.

Participants in this study are put into a one of three (3) groups randomly or by chance (like a coin flip).

The goal of the GRACE Trial is to figure out different ways of managing pain from sickle cell disease. The groups in the GRACE Trial are:

1) Acupuncture treatments + Usual Clinical Care

•  Participants will get acupuncture treatments in addition to current care for sickle cell disease, participants will go to the UIC College of Nursing 2 times a week for 5 weeks (10 sessions total). Each acupuncture appointment takes about 1 hour. To learn more click the link: https://vimeo.com/772075180/c1f58f3f59

2) Guided Relaxation + Usual Clinical Care

• Uses relaxation techniques delivered on a web-based format in addition to current care for sickle cell disease. Participants will use guided relaxation web-based application every day for the first 6 weeks. Each session of guided relaxation takes between 2-20 minutes. To learn more click the link: https://vimeo.com/781615120/0d4db75d54

3) Usual Clinical Care Only

• Current care for sickle cell disease

What are we studying?
Our goal is to find out if acupuncture or guided relaxation reduces sickle cell disease-related pain.

Who can participate in this study?
Adults 18 years of age or older, have sickle cell disease, and speak/understand English.

How long will the study last?
About 24 weeks.

Will I be paid in this research?
Participants will be paid for their time.