Mindfulness-Based Orofacial Pain Education and Management Program: A Qualitative Analysis of Transgender...

Transgender individuals are disproportionately affected by temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), often compounded by psychosocial stressors and limited access to affirming healthcare. Conventional TMD treatments may fall short in addressing the emotional and behavioral components of chronic orofacial pain, underscoring the need for integrative interventions. This study aimed to explore the implementation and perceived impact of a Mindfulness-Based Orofacial Pain Education Program as a complementary approach for transgender individuals with TMD.

A qualitative design was employed, using weekly instructor reports and a post-intervention focus group with transgender participants (ages 24-39), each diagnosed with TMD according to the DC/TMD criteria. Over eight weeks, participants attended weekly 60-min sessions incorporating mindfulness practices, pain education, and self-management strategies. Data sources included 8 weekly instructor audio reports (n = 32 recordings) and one focus group interview (duration: 68 min). All transcriptions were analyzed using Thematic Network Analysis supported by NVivo software (QSR International).

The Analysis identified a global theme of increased self-awareness and engagement in pain management. Three organizing themes emerged: (1) social support as a catalyst for adherence; (2) mindfulness as a strategy for emotional and sensory regulation; and (3) environmental and motivational barriers to sustained practice. Participants reported qualitative improvements in emotional regulation, sleep quality, and pain perception. Challenges included distraction due to the shared clinic setting and difficulties maintaining routine mindfulness practice, especially among participants reporting lower initial motivation.

The Mindfulness-Based Orofacial Pain Education Program was perceived as a feasible and beneficial adjunct to standard TMD care, promoting self-efficacy, emotional resilience, and pain self-management in a socially vulnerable population. Despite the small sample, consistent thematic convergence and participant engagement suggest promising applicability.