An Introduction to Mindfulness for Pain Treatment

Course overview

As pain perception results from the complex interaction of sensory, cognitive, and emotional factors, clinicians need evidence-based treatment strategies that address these three components. Mindfulness training uniquely meets this challenge. Mindfulness training has been shown to reduce pain intensity and unpleasantness, decrease depression and anxiety, and improve function and quality of life in patients with persistent pain. This course introduces you to the practical application of mindfulness training to the treatment of pain. The Two Arrows metaphor is discussed to support a patient's insight into the sensation of pain, the first arrow, and their reactions to the sensation, the second arrow. How to get a patient's buy-in when introducing mindfulness, as well as research on the role of diaphragmatic breathing in reducing pain and stress, is presented. Initial strategies to address challenges patients experience when first introduced to mindfulness, and approaches to teaching mindful progressive muscle relaxation, body scan, and movement are offered. Combining lecture and demonstration, this course is applicable to healthcare professionals, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, athletic trainers, and registered nurses, serving patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings who would benefit from sensible, effective pain self-management strategies. Prerequisite: Previous knowledge of and experience with the principles and practices of mindfulness and experience in their clinical applications to patient care are required to benefit from this course. It is highly recommended to watch the courses below in this order: 1. Fundamental Mindfulness Principles and Practices 2. Integrating Mindful Principles and Practices into Patient Care