Why mindfulness matters in musculoskeletal therapies: a narrative review
Frontiers in Psychology October 17, 2025 Peter Bablis, Ryan R. Day, Sophia Bablis et al. 1 citation
Chronic stress contributes to the onset and persistence of musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions by affecting twelve physiological systems. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) mitigate these stress effects through improved attention regulation, interoceptive awareness, and reduced catastrophising. The Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET) is highlighted as a practitioner-facilitated hybrid-MBI that targets unresolved emotional stress patterns and aligns with the biopsychosocial model. Contraindications via red and yellow flag considerations are noted, emphasising careful patient selection. The review argues that incorporating MBIs as adjuncts to conventional therapies can support recovery, foster resilience, and advance patient-centred MSK care.