Does mindfulness intervention improve quality of life in adults with non-malignant chronic pain

Chronic pain harms quality of life, causing distress and disability. This integrative literature review examined 14 studies to see whether mindfulness-based interventions improve quality of life in people with chronic pain. The evidence, of low to moderate quality, suggests mindfulness improves quality of life, especially mental well-being. Mindfulness can be an effective tool for those already on medication alone.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Chronic pain is a significant problem that negatively affects quality of life resulting in distress, disability, and inappropriate prescription of analgesics. Primary care providers need evidence for non-pharmaceutical tools, such as mindfulness-based intervention, to manage the complexities of chronic pain. The purpose of this integrative literature review is to investigate the impact mindfulness may have on the quality of life of subjects with chronic pain. A background of relevant information is presented regarding chronic pain, quality of life, and mindfulness. Thereafter, a comprehensive search revealed 14 studies in this integrative literature review. Key findings include that there is low to moderate quality evidence that mindfulness improves QOL, especially in the domains of mental well-being. Overall, mindfulness can be an effective tool for individuals that are currently on pharmacological monotherapy. The study concludes with recommendations for future research and practice.