Staja Booker, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Biobehavioral Nursing Science
College of Nursing
For millions of older adults, chronic pain is a daily reality that limits movement, independence and quality of life. Staja Booker’s research focuses on improving how that pain is understood and treated, particularly for populations that have historically faced barriers to effective care.
Booker’s work centers on osteoarthritis and other chronic pain conditions, examining how biological, psychological and social factors interact to shape the experience of pain. A key focus of her research is a concept known as movement-evoked pain, which occurs or worsens during physical activity. Her work aims to understand biopsychosocial mechanisms underlying pain and movement while developing strategies that help people remain active despite discomfort.
Her contributions have helped define and advance this emerging area of study. Booker was among the first researchers to systematically characterize movement-evoked pain, develop ways to measure it and explore how it affects daily function. She is now leading the development of new interventions to reduce pain and improve mobility. Her current project tests a tailored self-management program that helps individuals better understand and manage their symptoms, with the goal of improving both physical function and overall well-being.
A defining feature of Booker’s research is its strong connection to community needs. She has developed educational tools and resources designed specifically for underserved populations, including culturally tailored materials that help individuals manage chronic pain in ways that are both practical and accessible.
Her impact reaches beyond research settings, as department chair Lisiane Pruinelli noted, through a program that is “rigorous, well-funded, and deeply aligned” with improving health outcomes for communities. Booker’s work has also contributed to national discussions on pain management, including efforts to improve care for individuals using long-term opioid therapy and to expand equitable access to treatment.
Booker also works closely with students and trainees while contributing to interdisciplinary initiatives that address pain, aging and health disparities. Through her research, education and community engagement, Booker is helping reshape how chronic pain is understood and managed.