Feasibility of Mindfulness-Based Intervention for Veterans Managing Chronic Pain.
Shu-Ping Chen, Huei-Tsz Liu, Joanne C Appelt, Bonnie L Klassen, Lili Liu, Janet L Smith, Antonio Miguel-Cruz
Canadian journal of occupational therapy. Revue canadienne d'ergotherapie September 1, 2023 DOI: 10.1177/00084174231156276 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractA 12-week Mindfulness-Based Chronic Pain Management program for veterans reduced pain catastrophizing scores but did not significantly change pain intensity. Qualitative themes included reduced isolation, increased awareness and control, and perceived effectiveness. The study suggests the program is feasible for veterans and warrants further testing.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Pretest-posttest single-group mixed-methods design Qualitative Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 31 |
| Population | Veterans with chronic pain |
| Intervention | Mindfulness-Based Chronic Pain Management (MBCPMTM) program |
| Duration | 12-week intervention |
| Topics | Meditation |
| Keywords | Ergothérapie Group therapy Occupational therapy Quality of life |
| Key finding | Participants' pain catastrophizing scores improved, but pain intensity did not change significantly. |
Abstract
Background. Chronic pain impacts people's activity participation, productivity, mental health, and sense of wellbeing. Purpose. This study aimed to (1) evaluate the feasibility of the Mindfulness-Based Chronic Pain Management (MBCPMTM) program on reducing pain perception and enhancing the quality of life, and (2) understand veterans' experience with the program. Method. The pretest-posttest single-group, mixed-methods design was used. Thirty-one veterans were offered the 12-week intervention. The Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29 were administered before and after the program. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted to understand the experience. Findings. Participants' PCS scores improved (Z = -3.116, p = .002), but the pain intensity did not change significantly. Themes from qualitative data include: (1) We are not alone! (2) I have a sense of awareness, choices, and control; and (3) It does work! Implications. The study shows preliminary feasibility of MBCPMTM for veterans. This promising effect supports future rigorous testing of this intervention.