Group, videoconference-delivered cognitive therapy, behavioral activation, and mindfulness meditation all produced medium-to-large reductions in pain interference for adults with chronic low back pain, with gains maintained at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. The three treatments showed similar effectiveness, with no significant differences between them except that behavioral activation improved sleep disturbance more than mindfulness meditation from pre- to post-treatment. Effect sizes for secondary outcomes were generally small to medium across all conditions. These findings indicate that telehealth-delivered psychological treatments are effective for chronic low back pain and can expand access to evidence-based care.
Chronic pain affects millions and costs billions in healthcare and lost productivity; medical interventions often fail, and opioid use poses serious risks. Hypnosis shows promise but is frequently applied incorrectly. The authors propose a biopsychosocial model for pain management centered on hypnosis, presenting eight psychotherapy modules informed by hypnosis, meditation, and motivational interviewing. These modules cover biopsychosocial assessment, motivational interviewing, cognitive interventions, hypnosis, meditation, activity, psychological factors, and sleep. Linear progression through modules is not expected, and attention to each varies by patient. The goal is to manage rather than cure pain, with success defined by increased movement, productivity, and life satisfaction, not solely pain reduction.