Initial Exploration of a Music-Based Telehealth Support for Medically-Complex Chronic Pain Patients

Area of Science:

• Music therapy research
• Telehealth interventions
• Chronic pain management

Background:

• Music interventions leverage self-efficacy and social connection for chronic pain relief.
• Barriers like health issues and cost limit access to in-person music therapy.
• Telehealth offers a potential solution to bridge this accessibility gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gather patient input on a telehealth music support group protocol.
• To assess the feasibility and utility of a virtual group for chronic pain patients.
• To determine if telehealth music groups benefit those facing barriers to in-person therapy.

Main Methods:

• Two cohorts (N=3) of a Virtual Chronic Pain Support Group were conducted.
• Participant feedback was collected via surveys and focus groups to refine session protocols.
• Thematic analysis identified perceived benefits and suggestions for future groups.
• Feasibility of data collection methods and outcome measures was examined.

Main Results:

• Participants reported pain relief, social support, and enhanced pain management knowledge.
• Preferred formats included small groups, participant-centered psychoeducation, song sharing, and music imagery.
• Patients utilized session recordings and curated playlists for continued engagement.
• Quantitative outcome measures were deemed relevant to participants' pain experiences.

Conclusions:

• Telehealth music groups provide accessible social connections, psychoeducation, and self-management resources.
• This pilot protocol serves as a vital resource for isolated chronic pain patients.
• Interventions enhanced mind-body awareness and interoception, suggesting potential for restoring positive interoception.
• Participant-centered telehealth can expand music intervention access for chronic pain sufferers, warranting further research in diverse communities.