Culturally Adapting Mind-Body Interventions for Black Individuals with Chronic Pain: Arguments and Recommendations...

Area of Science:

• Health Disparities
• Mind-Body Interventions
• Chronic Pain Management

Background:

• Non-Hispanic Black individuals report worse chronic pain outcomes compared to non-Hispanic White individuals.
• Mind-body interventions (MBIs) offer a non-pharmacological approach to chronic pain management.
• Existing MBIs may align with cultural practices important to Black communities, potentially reducing disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of mind-body interventions (MBIs) for improving chronic pain management in Black individuals.
• To identify barriers to MBI access and acceptability among Black individuals with chronic pain.
• To propose a community-engaged, culturally adapted approach to MBI implementation for this population.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on MBIs and chronic pain in Black populations.
• Analysis of contextual overlaps between MBIs and cultural practices within Black communities.
• Identification of specific barriers (e.g., access, cost, representation) to MBI utilization.

Main Results:

• MBIs can shift pain perception by altering cognitive appraisals and emotional responses.
• Cultural overlaps include centering, contemplative prayer, racial empowerment, and social support.
• Significant barriers to MBI demand and uptake persist, including access and acceptability issues.

Conclusions:

• Culturally adapting MBIs is essential to reduce barriers for Black individuals with chronic pain.
• Community-engaged approaches and tailored interventions are necessary for effective implementation.
• Adaptations should consider historical, environmental, financial, and psychosocial factors specific to Black adults.