A Patient Friendly Summary
Study Title: Telehealth Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Chronic Pain: The LAMP Randomized Clinical Trial
Published in JAMA Internal Medicine, October 1, 2024
Read the full article
Purpose of the Study:
To determine if mindfulness practices delivered via telehealth—either through group sessions or self-paced modules—can improve daily functioning and reduce the impact of chronic pain in veterans.
Study Design:
- Participants: 811 veterans with moderate to severe chronic pain.
- Groups:
- Group Mindfulness: Weekly 90-minute Zoom sessions with a facilitator.
- Self-Paced Mindfulness: Online modules completed individually, with occasional facilitator check-ins.
- Usual Care: Standard VA medical care without added mindfulness interventions.
- Duration: Participants were followed for 12 months.
Key Findings:
- Both mindfulness approaches led to significant improvements in pain-related function compared to usual care.
- Self-Paced Mindfulness showed slightly greater benefits:
- 42% achieved a ≥30% improvement in pain interference.
- 21% achieved a ≥50% improvement.
- Improvements were also noted in:
- Pain intensity
- Depression and PTSD symptoms
- Sleep quality
- Fatigue
- Social engagement
What This Means for a Person with Pain:
Mindfulness practices, even when self-guided and delivered remotely, can be effective tools for managing chronic pain. These interventions offer:
- Flexibility to practice at your own pace.
- Nonpharmacological options to complement existing treatments.
- Potential improvements in overall well-being and daily functioning.
If you’re interested in exploring mindfulness-based approaches to manage chronic pain, consider discussing these options with your healthcare provider or support group facilitator.