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

Music interventions for chronic pain harness multiple therapeutic mechanisms, including self-efficacy and social connectedness. Many patients cannot access face-to-face music therapy due to health conditions and/or socioeconomic barriers. We sought patient input on an initial session protocol to determine whether a telehealth support group would benefit patients unable to attend in-person group music therapy.

In collaboration with an osteopathic clinic, we conducted two cohorts (N = 3 unique participants) of the Virtual Chronic Pain Support Group to develop session protocols and assess utility of outcome measures. We obtained ongoing participant feedback through check-in surveys and adjusted session format in response. Thematic analysis of focus group data at the conclusion of each cohort identified patients' perceived benefits and suggestions for future groups. Lastly, we examined the feasibility of survey data collection methods and measures.

Participants reported they experienced pain relief, social support, and gained knowledge and insight into managing their pain and other stressors using music. They preferred small group sizes and participant-centered psychoeducation, with song sharing and music imagery central to each session. Furthermore, patients supplemented sessions by listening to recordings of the sessions' music and imagery experiences and group-curated playlists. They reported that the quantitative outcome measures were relevant to their pain experiences and needs.

The groups were accessible and provided patients meaningful social connections, valuable psychoeducation, and self-management resources for chronic pain. This pilot study suggests that this telehealth protocol can be a lifeline for isolated patients facing barriers to in-person therapy. Furthermore, participants' descriptions of increased mind-body awareness during the music interventions highlight their potential for restoring positive interoception. Participant-centered group telehealth could significantly expand access of music intervention resources to chronic pain patients. Further research with diverse patient communities is needed to optimize approaches for this challenging population.