Which type and dosage of mindfulness-based interventions are most effective for chronic pain? A systematic review and network meta-analysis.
Journal of psychosomatic research April 1, 2025 Mengting Zhu, Samuel Yeung-Shan Wong, Claire Chenwen Zhong et al. 13 citations
A network meta-analysis of 68 studies with 5,339 participants compared different mindfulness-based interventions for chronic pain. Mindfulness-based stress reduction showed the strongest evidence for reducing pain intensity and depression, with moderate to high certainty. Mindfulness-oriented recovery enhancement was most effective for improving physical function, though the evidence was low certainty. An 8-week course with weekly 90- to 120-minute sessions appeared optimal for addressing pain, physical function, and depression. These findings support the use of mindfulness-based interventions in chronic pain management and help inform evidence-based guidelines.