Addressing Chronic Pain Among Rural Residents Engaging in Hazardous Drinking: A Mobile Health Intervention Pilot
Grace Murray1, Lauren Bernier2, Maya Kratzer2
1Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, United States. gemurray@bu.edu.
Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings
|February 1, 2026
Summary
This study found an app-based intervention was feasible and acceptable for rural adults with chronic pain (CP) and harmful drinking (HD). The intervention showed promise in reducing pain and alcohol-related consequences.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Public Health
- Digital Health
Background:
- Chronic pain (CP) and harmful drinking (HD) frequently co-occur, with higher prevalence and lower treatment access in rural areas.
- Integrated treatments addressing both CP and HD are crucial, especially for rural populations facing disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the acceptability and feasibility of a novel app-based cognitive-behavioral intervention for CP and HD in rural residents.
- To evaluate the preliminary impact of the intervention on pain, alcohol involvement, and functioning.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial with 32 rural participants reporting CP and HD.
- Participants were assigned to an app-based intervention or an assessment-only control group.
- Data collected via self-report questionnaires at baseline and 12-week follow-up.
Main Results:
- The app-based intervention demonstrated feasibility and acceptability, with timely recruitment and low attrition (3.2%).
- Intervention group showed a 37% median reduction in pain compared to 10% in the control group.
- Significant reductions in alcohol consequences (60% vs. 27%) were observed, though changes in heavy drinking episodes were inconsistent.
Conclusions:
- A mobile intervention is feasible and acceptable for rural individuals experiencing chronic pain and harmful drinking.
- This digital approach may improve functioning and address co-occurring CP and HD among engaged users.
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