A randomized, controlled pilot study of mindfulness-based stress reduction for pediatric chronic pain
Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine
|November 21, 2013
Summary
This pilot study explored mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) for youth with chronic pain. While recruitment was challenging, preliminary findings suggest MBSR may enhance mindfulness in adolescents.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Psychology
- Mindfulness Research
- Chronic Pain Management
Background:
- Chronic pain affects 1 in 5 US children, necessitating effective coping strategies.
- Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) shows promise for managing chronic pain symptoms and improving quality of life.
- Limited rigorous research exists on MBSR's effectiveness in pediatric chronic pain populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of MBSR for adolescents with chronic pain.
- To address the gap in methodologically sound research on MBSR for youth.
Main Methods:
- The study employed a pilot randomized controlled trial design.
- Participants were recruited from a pediatric pain clinic; a small sample of six adolescents (12-17 years) was included.
- Interventions included weekly 90-minute MBSR sessions versus a cognitive-behavioral psychoeducation group.
Main Results:
- Significant challenges were encountered in participant recruitment and retention.
- Qualitative analysis indicated potential increases in mindfulness among participants.
- Outcome measures for quality of life, pain catastrophizing, anxiety, and functional disability showed inconsistent results.
Conclusions:
- The study identified critical challenges for future research on MBSR in pediatric chronic pain.
- Recommendations are provided for improving research methodology and clinical implementation of MBSR for this population.
