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Taub R, Agmon-Levin N, Frumer L, Samuel-Magal I, Glick I, Horesh D. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) for fibromyalgia patients: The role of pain cognitions as mechanisms of change. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2024; 56:101860. [PMID: 38692113 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2024.101860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibromyalgia (FM) is a pain condition characterized by physical and psychological difficulties. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effects of a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) on FM patients and identify the role of two pain cognitions: psychological inflexibility in pain (PIPS) and pain catastrophizing (PCS), as mechanisms of change. METHODS 95 FM patients (Mean ± SD: 49.18 ± 13.26 years) were randomly assigned to MBSR group therapy (n = 49) or a waitlist (WL) control group (n = 46). An adapted MBSR protocol for FM was employed. A series of measures were taken, covering FM symptoms, depression, perceived stress (PSS), PIPS and PCS. Three measurements were conducted: pre-intervention, post-intervention and 6-months follow up. RESULTS Compared to WL controls, the MBSR group showed greater improvements in FM symptoms (F(1,78) = 2.81, p < 0.05), PSS (F(1,78) = 4.38, p < 0.05) and Depression (F(1,78) = 21.12, p < 0.001), with mostly medium effect sizes. Improvements in PSS (F(2,68) = 7.75, p < 0.05) and depression (F(2,68) = 15.68, p < 0.05) remained stable over six months. The effect of MBSR on FM and PSS was mediated by one's reported change in PIPS. The effect of MBSR on depression was mediated by one's reported change in PCS. CONCLUSIONS These results reveal the significant therapeutic potential of MBSR for FM patients, due to the emphasis on non-judging and acceptance of negative inner states. Furthermore, this research identified two important pain-related cognitions as mechanisms of change, suggesting that MBSR contributes to cognitive change, which enables the reduction of physical and psychological distress. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04304664.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renen Taub
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel.
| | - Nancy Agmon-Levin
- Clinical Immunology, Angioedema and Allergy, Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat Gan, 52621, Israel.
| | - Lee Frumer
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel.
| | - Inbal Samuel-Magal
- Technion Israel Institute of Technology, Students Counseling Center, Haifa, 3200003, Israel.
| | - Ittai Glick
- Shachaf Clinic for Stress Reduction, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat Gan, 52621, Israel.
| | - Danny Horesh
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, 5290002, Israel; Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, 1 Park Ave., New York, NY, 10016, USA.
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Nadinda PG, Laarhoven AV, Bergh OVD, Vlaeyen JWS, Peters ML, Evers AWM. Expectancies and Avoidance: Towards an Integrated Model of Chronic Somatic Symptoms. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 164:105808. [PMID: 38986893 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Putu Gita Nadinda
- Leiden University, the Netherlands; Maastricht University, the Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrea W M Evers
- Leiden University, the Netherlands; Medical Delta, Leiden, Delft, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Hedman-Lagerlöf M, Buhrman M, Hedman-Lagerlöf E, Ljótsson B, Axelsson E. Shared and distinct effect mediators in exposure-based and traditional cognitive behavior therapy for fibromyalgia: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Behav Res Ther 2024; 178:104546. [PMID: 38685153 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2024.104546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition associated with substantial suffering and societal costs. Traditional cognitive behavior therapy (T-CBT) is the most evaluated psychological treatment, but exposure therapy (Exp-CBT) has shown promise with a pronounced focus on the reduction of pain-related avoidance behaviors. In a recent randomized controlled trial (N = 274), we found that Exp-CBT was not superior to T-CBT (d = -0.10) in reducing overall fibromyalgia severity. This study investigated pain-related avoidance behaviors, pain catastrophizing, hypervigilance, pacing, overdoing and physical activity as potential mediators of the treatment effect. Mediation analyses were based on parallel process growth models fitted on 11 weekly measurement points, and week-by-week time-lagged effects were tested using random intercepts cross-lagged panel models. Results indicated that a reduction in avoidance behaviors, pain catastrophizing, and hypervigilance were significant mediators of change in both treatments. An increase in pacing and a reduction in overdoing were significant mediators in T-CBT only. Physical activity was not a mediator. In the time-lagged analyses, an unequivocal effect on subsequent fibromyalgia severity was seen of avoidance and catastrophizing in Exp-CBT, and of overdoing in T-CBT. Exposure-based and traditional CBT for fibromyalgia appear to share common treatment mediators, namely pain-related avoidance behavior, catastrophizing and hypervigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Hedman-Lagerlöf
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Region Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Monica Buhrman
- Division of Clinical Psychology, Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Erik Hedman-Lagerlöf
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Gustavsberg University Primary Health Care Center, Academic Primary Health Care Center, Stockholm, Region Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brjánn Ljótsson
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erland Axelsson
- Division of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Liljeholmen University Primary Health Care Center, Academic Primary Health Care Center, Stockholm, Region Stockholm, Sweden
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Liliequist BE, Särnholm J, Skúladóttir H, Ólafsdóttir E, Ljótsson B, Braunschweig F. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Symptom Preoccupation Among Patients With Premature Ventricular Contractions: Nonrandomized Pretest-Posttest Study. JMIR Cardio 2024; 8:e53815. [PMID: 38713500 PMCID: PMC11109856 DOI: 10.2196/53815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are a common cardiac condition often associated with disabling symptoms and impaired quality of life (QoL). Current treatment strategies have limited effectiveness in reducing symptoms and restoring QoL for patients with PVCs. Symptom preoccupation, involving cardiac-related fear, hypervigilance, and avoidance behavior, is associated with disability in other cardiac conditions and can be effectively targeted by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a PVC-specific CBT protocol targeting symptom preoccupation in patients with symptomatic idiopathic PVCs. METHODS Nineteen patients diagnosed with symptomatic idiopathic PVCs and symptom preoccupation underwent PVC-specific CBT over 10 weeks. The treatment was delivered by a licensed psychologist via videoconference in conjunction with online text-based information and homework assignments. The main components of the treatment were exposure to cardiac-related symptoms and reducing cardiac-related avoidance and control behavior. Self-rated measures were collected at baseline, post treatment, and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. The primary outcome was PVC-specific QoL at posttreatment assessment measured with a PVC-adapted version of the Atrial Fibrillation Effects on Quality of Life questionnaire. Secondary measures included symptom preoccupation measured with the Cardiac Anxiety Questionnaire. PVC burden was evaluated with 5-day continuous electrocardiogram recordings at baseline, post treatment, and 6-month follow-up. RESULTS We observed large improvements in PVC-specific QoL (Cohen d=1.62, P<.001) and symptom preoccupation (Cohen d=1.73, P<.001) post treatment. These results were sustained at the 3- and 6-month follow-ups. PVC burden, as measured with 5-day continuous electrocardiogram, remained unchanged throughout follow-up. However, self-reported PVC symptoms were significantly lower at posttreatment assessment and at both the 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Reduction in symptom preoccupation had a statistically significant mediating effect of the intervention on PVC-specific QoL in an explorative mediation analysis. CONCLUSIONS This uncontrolled pilot study shows preliminary promising results for PVC-specific CBT as a potentially effective treatment approach for patients with symptomatic idiopathic PVCs and symptom preoccupation. The substantial improvements in PVC-specific QoL and symptom preoccupation, along with the decreased self-reported PVC-related symptoms warrant further investigation in a larger randomized controlled trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05087238; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05087238.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn E Liliequist
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Josefin Särnholm
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helga Skúladóttir
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Ólafsdóttir
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brjánn Ljótsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frieder Braunschweig
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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Larsen JK, Hollands GJ, Garland EL, Evers AWM, Wiers RW. Be more mindful: Targeting addictive responses by integrating mindfulness with cognitive bias modification or cue exposure interventions. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 153:105408. [PMID: 37758008 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
This review provides an overview of the most prominent neurocognitive effects of cognitive bias modification (CBM), cue-exposure therapy and mindfulness interventions for targeting addictive responses. It highlights the key insights that have stemmed from cognitive neuroscience and brain imaging research and combines these with insights from behavioural science in building a conceptual model integrating mindfulness with response-focused CBM or cue-exposure interventions. This furthers our understanding of whether and how mindfulness strategies may i) facilitate or add to the induced response-focused effects decreasing cue-induced craving, and ii) further weaken the link between craving and addictive responses. Specifically, awareness/monitoring may facilitate, and decentering may add to, response-focused effects. Combined awareness acceptance strategies may also diminish the craving-addiction link. The conceptual model presented in this review provides a specific theoretical framework to deepen our understanding of how mindfulness strategies and CBM or cue-exposure interventions can be combined to greatest effect. This is important in both suggesting a roadmap for future research, and for the further development of clinical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junilla K Larsen
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, PO Box 9104, 6500 HE Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Gareth J Hollands
- EPPI Centre, UCL Social Research Institute, University College London, UK
| | - Eric L Garland
- Center on Mindfulness and Integrative Health Intervention Development, College of Social Work, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Andrea W M Evers
- Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, NL, and Medical Delta, Leiden University, TU Delft and Erasmus University, UK
| | - Reinout W Wiers
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT)-lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam and Centre for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Rosser BA, Fisher E, Janjua S, Eccleston C, Keogh E, Duggan G. Psychological therapies delivered remotely for the management of chronic pain (excluding headache) in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 8:CD013863. [PMID: 37643992 PMCID: PMC10476013 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013863.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic pain (pain lasting three months or more) is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage. Common types (excluding headache) include back pain, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. Access to traditional face-to-face therapies can be restricted by healthcare resources, geography, and cost. Remote technology-based delivery of psychological therapies has the potential to overcome treatment barriers. However, their therapeutic effectiveness compared to traditional delivery methods requires further investigation. OBJECTIVES To determine the benefits and harms of remotely-delivered psychological therapies compared to active control, waiting list, or treatment as usual for the management of chronic pain in adults. SEARCH METHODS We searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO to 29 June 2022. We also searched clinical trials registers and reference lists. We conducted a citation search of included trials to identify any further eligible trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included RCTs in adults (≥ 18 years old) with chronic pain. Interventions included psychological therapies with recognisable psychotherapeutic content or based on psychological theory. Trials had to have delivered therapy remote from the therapist (e.g. Internet, smartphone application) and involve no more than 30% contact time with a clinician. Comparators included treatment as usual (including waiting-list controls) and active controls (e.g. education). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane methodological procedures. MAIN RESULTS We included 32 trials (4924 participants) in the analyses. Twenty-five studies delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to participants, and seven delivered acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Participants had back pain, musculoskeletal pain, opioid-treated chronic pain, mixed chronic pain, hip or knee osteoarthritis, spinal cord injury, fibromyalgia, provoked vestibulodynia, or rheumatoid arthritis. We assessed 25 studies as having an unclear or high risk of bias for selective reporting. However, across studies overall, risk of bias was generally low. We downgraded evidence certainty for primary outcomes for inconsistency, imprecision, and study limitations. Certainty of evidence ranged from moderate to very low. Adverse events were inadequately reported or recorded across studies. We report results only for studies in CBT here. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) versus treatment as usual (TAU) Pain intensity Immediately after treatment, CBT likely demonstrates a small beneficial effect compared to TAU (standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.39 to -0.16; 20 studies, 3206 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Participants receiving CBT are probably more likely to achieve a 30% improvement in pain intensity compared to TAU (23% versus 11%; risk ratio (RR) 2.15, 95% CI 1.62 to 2.85; 5 studies, 1347 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). They may also be more likely to achieve a 50% improvement in pain intensity (6% versus 2%; RR 2.31, 95% CI 1.14 to 4.66; 4 studies, 1229 participants), but the evidence is of low certainty. At follow-up, there is likely little to no difference in pain intensity between CBT and TAU (SMD -0.04, 95% CI -0.17 to 0.09; 8 studies, 959 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). The evidence comparing CBT to TAU on achieving a 30% improvement in pain is very uncertain (40% versus 24%; RR 1.70, 95% CI 0.82 to 3.53; 1 study, 69 participants). No evidence was available regarding a 50% improvement in pain. Functional disability Immediately after treatment, CBT may demonstrate a small beneficial improvement compared to TAU (SMD -0.38, 95% CI -0.53 to -0.22; 14 studies, 2672 participants; low-certainty evidence). At follow-up, there is likely little to no difference between treatments (SMD -0.05, 95% CI -0.23 to 0.14; 3 studies, 461 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Quality of life Immediately after treatment, CBT may not have resulted in a beneficial effect on quality of life compared to TAU, but the evidence is very uncertain (SMD -0.16, 95% CI -0.43 to 0.11; 7 studies, 1423 participants). There is likely little to no difference between CBT and TAU on quality of life at follow-up (SMD -0.16, 95% CI -0.37 to 0.05; 3 studies, 352 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Adverse events Immediately after treatment, evidence about the number of people experiencing adverse events is very uncertain (34% in TAU versus 6% in CBT; RR 6.00, 95% CI 2.2 to 16.40; 1 study, 140 participants). No evidence was available at follow-up. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) versus active control Pain intensity Immediately after treatment, CBT likely demonstrates a small beneficial effect compared to active control (SMD -0.28, 95% CI -0.52 to -0.04; 3 studies, 261 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). The evidence at follow-up is very uncertain (mean difference (MD) 0.50, 95% CI -0.30 to 1.30; 1 study, 127 participants). No evidence was available for a 30% or 50% pain intensity improvement. Functional disability Immediately after treatment, there may be little to no difference between CBT and active control on functional disability (SMD -0.26, 95% CI -0.55 to 0.02; 2 studies, 189 participants; low-certainty evidence). The evidence at follow-up is very uncertain (MD 3.40, 95% CI -1.15 to 7.95; 1 study, 127 participants). Quality of life Immediately after treatment, there is likely little to no difference in CBT and active control (SMD -0.22, 95% CI -1.11 to 0.66; 3 studies, 261 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). The evidence at follow-up is very uncertain (MD 0.00, 95% CI -0.06 to 0.06; 1 study, 127 participants). Adverse events Immediately after treatment, the evidence comparing CBT to active control is very uncertain (2% versus 0%; RR 3.23, 95% CI 0.13 to 77.84; 1 study, 135 participants). No evidence was available at follow-up. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Currently, evidence about remotely-delivered psychological therapies is largely limited to Internet-based delivery of CBT. We found evidence that remotely-delivered CBT has small benefits for pain intensity (moderate certainty) and functional disability (moderate to low certainty) in adults experiencing chronic pain. Benefits were not maintained at follow-up. Our appraisal of quality of life and adverse events outcomes post-treatment were limited by study numbers, evidence certainty, or both. We found limited research (mostly low to very low certainty) exploring other psychological therapies (i.e. ACT). More high-quality studies are needed to assess the broad translatability of psychological therapies to remote delivery, the different delivery technologies, treatment longevity, comparison with active control, and adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emma Fisher
- Cochrane Pain, Palliative and Supportive Care Group, Pain Research Unit, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Sadia Janjua
- Cochrane Pain, Palliative and Supportive Care Group, Pain Research Unit, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Edmund Keogh
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Geoffrey Duggan
- Bath Centre for Pain Services, Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, Bath, UK
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Courel-Ibáñez J, Estévez-López F, Hughes C, Adams N, Fullen BM, Davison G, Montgomery A, Cramp F, Maestre C, Martin D, McVeigh JG. Proof of concept of prehabilitation: a combination of education and behavioural change, to promote physical activity in people with fibromyalgia. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070609. [PMID: 37451740 PMCID: PMC10351288 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To establish proof of concept of a prehabilitation intervention, a combination of education and behavioural change, preceding a physical activity programme in people with fibromyalgia (FM). SETTINGS Open-label, feasibility clinical trial. PARTICIPANTS Eleven people with FM (10 women). INTERVENTIONS The prehabilitation intervention consisted of 4 weeks, 1 weekly session (~1 to 1.5 hours), aimed to increase self-efficacy and understand why and how to engage in a gentle and self-paced physical activity programme (6 weeks of walking with telephone support). PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome was the acceptability and credibility of the intervention by means of the Credibility/Expectancy Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes comprised scales to measure FM severity, specific symptoms and sedentary behaviour. An exit interview was conducted to identify the strengths and weaknesses and barriers to the intervention. RESULTS One participant dropped out due to finding the walking programme excessively stressful. Participants expected the intervention would improve their symptoms by 22%-38% but resulted in 5%-26% improvements. Participants would be confident in recommending this intervention to a friend who experiences similar problems. The interviews suggested that the fluctuation of symptoms should be considered as an outcome and that the prehabilitation intervention should accomodate these fluctuation. Additional suggestions were to incorporate initial interviews (patient-centred approach), to tailor the programmes to individuals' priorities and to offer a variety of physical activity programmes to improve motivation. CONCLUSIONS This feasibility study demonstrated that our novel approach is acceptable to people with FM. Future interventions should pay attention to flexibility, symptoms fluctuation and patients support. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03764397.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Courel-Ibáñez
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Education and Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Melilla, Spain
| | - Fernando Estévez-López
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Education, Faculty of Education Sciences, SPORT Research Group (CTS-1024) and CERNEP Research Center, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | - Ciara Hughes
- School of Health Sciences, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | - Nicola Adams
- Department of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Brona M Fullen
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gareth Davison
- Sport and Exercise Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Fiona Cramp
- College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Cristina Maestre
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Denis Martin
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University & NIHR Applied Research Collaboration for the North East and North Cumbria, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Joseph G McVeigh
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, College of Medicine and Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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Donisi V, De Lucia A, Pasini I, Gandolfi M, Schweiger V, Del Piccolo L, Perlini C. e-Health Interventions Targeting Pain-Related Psychological Variables in Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:1845. [PMID: 37444679 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11131845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence to support the potential benefit of e-Health interventions targeting psychosocial outcomes and/or pain-related psychological variables for chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). This systematic review aims at providing an in-depth description of the available e-Health psychological and/or multicomponent interventions for patients with FMS. Searches were made in PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and PsycINFO up to 15 May 2023, finally including twenty-six articles. The quality of the included articles was medium-high (average quality assessment score of 77.1%). 50% of studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (n = 13), and the majority of them focused exclusively on adult patients with FMS (n = 23) who were predominantly female. Four categories of e-Health modalities were identified: web-based (n = 19), mobile application (m-Health) (n = 3), virtual reality (VR) (n = 2), and video consulting (n = 2). Interventions were mainly based on the cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach (n = 14) and mostly involved contact with a healthcare professional through different digital tools. Overall, a growing number of psychological and multicomponent interventions have been created and delivered using digital tools in the context of FMS, showing their potentiality for improving psychosocial outcomes and pain-related psychological variables. However, some digital tools resulted as underrepresented, and the literature on this topic appears highly heterogeneous precluding robust conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Donisi
- Section of Clinical Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Annalisa De Lucia
- Section of Clinical Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Ilenia Pasini
- Section of Clinical Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Marialuisa Gandolfi
- UOC Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neuromotor and Cognitive Rehabilitation Research Centre (CRRNC), University of Verona, Policlinico GB Rossi, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Vittorio Schweiger
- Pain Therapy Centre, Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Maternal and Infant Sciences, Verona University Hospital, Policlinico GB Rossi, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Lidia Del Piccolo
- Section of Clinical Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Cinzia Perlini
- Section of Clinical Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Science, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
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Hedman-Lagerlöf M, Andersson E, Ljótsson B, Engelbrektsson J, Lundbäck K, Björkander D, Hedman-Lagerlöf E, Flink I, Axelsson E. Effect moderators in Internet-based exposure therapy for fibromyalgia: The role of pain intensity. Eur J Pain 2023; 27:507-517. [PMID: 36585933 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.2074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A recent randomized controlled trial (N = 140) was indicative of large and sustained average improvements of Internet-based exposure for fibromyalgia, as compared to a waitlist. However, little is known about who benefits the most from this treatment. OBJECTIVES To test for potential moderating effects of age, educational attainment, the duration of fibromyalgia, baseline overall fibromyalgia severity, pain intensity, fibromyalgia-related avoidance behaviour and symptom preoccupation on the waitlist-controlled effect of 10 weeks of Internet-based exposure for fibromyalgia. METHODS Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02638636). We used linear mixed effects models to determine whether the waitlist-controlled effect of exposure therapy on overall fibromyalgia severity (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire) differed as a function of the potential moderators. RESULTS Only pain intensity (0-10) was found to be a significant moderator, where a higher baseline pain intensity predicted a more limited waitlist-controlled effect of Internet-based exposure (B = 3.48, 95% CI: 0.84-6.13). Standardized point estimates of effects were small for the sociodemographic variables, and in the moderate range for some clinical variables that did not reach statistical significance such as behavioural avoidance and time with the fibromyalgia diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that Internet-based exposure treatment was more useful for participants with lower baseline levels of pain, and less so for participants with higher baseline levels of pain. The treatment had relatively similar effects across the other tested moderators. SIGNIFICANCE This study evaluated potential effect moderators in exposure-based treatment for fibromyalgia. Results indicated that a higher level of pain intensity at baseline was predictive of a less favourable outcome. It may be extra important to monitor progression for these patients and to provide additional therapeutic support when needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Hedman-Lagerlöf
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erik Andersson
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brjánn Ljótsson
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johanna Engelbrektsson
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karolina Lundbäck
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniel Björkander
- Department of Psychology, Stockholms Universitet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Liljeholmen Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erik Hedman-Lagerlöf
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Gustavsberg Primary Health Care Centre, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ida Flink
- Center for Health and Medical Psychology (CHAMP), Örebro Universitet, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Erland Axelsson
- Liljeholmen Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Academic Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
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10
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Hybelius J, Gustavsson A, Af Winklerfelt Hammarberg S, Toth-Pal E, Johansson R, Ljótsson B, Axelsson E. A unified Internet-delivered exposure treatment for undifferentiated somatic symptom disorder: single-group prospective feasibility trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2022; 8:149. [PMID: 35854392 PMCID: PMC9294766 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-022-01105-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure-based psychological treatment appears to have beneficial effects for several patient groups that commonly report distress related to persistent somatic symptoms. Yet exposure-based treatment is rarely offered in routine care. This may be because existing treatment protocols have been developed for specific symptom clusters or specific unwanted responses to somatic symptoms, and many clinics do not have the resources to offer all these specialised treatments in parallel. In preparation for a randomised controlled trial, we investigated the feasibility of a new and unified Internet-delivered exposure treatment (OSF.io: cnbwj) for somatic symptom disorder regardless of somatic symptom domain (e.g. cardiopulmonary, fatigue, gastrointestinal, pain), combination of unwanted emotions (e.g. anger, anxiety, fear, shame) and whether somatic symptoms are medically explained or not. We hypothesised that a wide spectrum of subgroups would show interest, that the treatment would be rated as credible, that adherence would be adequate, that the measurement strategy would be acceptable and that there would be no serious adverse events. METHODS Single-group prospective cohort study where 33 self-referred adults with undifferentiated DSM-5 somatic symptom disorder took part in 8 weeks of unified Internet-delivered exposure treatment delivered via a web platform hosted by a medical university. Self-report questionnaires were administered online before treatment, each week during treatment, post treatment and 3 months after treatment. RESULTS Participants reported a broad spectrum of symptoms. The Credibility/Expectancy mean score was 34.5 (SD = 7.0, range: 18-47). Participants completed 91% (150/165) of all modules and 97% of the participants (32/33) completed at least two exposure exercises. The average participant rated the adequacy of the rationale as 8.4 (SD = 1.5) on a scale from 0 to 10. The post-treatment assessment was completed by 97% (32/33), and 84% (27/32) rated the measurement strategy as acceptable. The Client Satisfaction Questionnaire mean score was 25.3 (SD = 4.7, range: 17-32) and no serious adverse events were reported. Reductions in subjective somatic symptom burden (the Patient Health Questionnaire 15; d = 0.90) and symptom preoccupation (the somatic symptom disorder 12; d = 1.17) were large and sustained. CONCLUSIONS Delivering a unified Internet-delivered exposure-based treatment protocol for individuals with undifferentiated somatic symptom disorder appears to be feasible. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04511286 . Registered on August 13, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonna Hybelius
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Liljeholmen Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Liljeholmstorget 7, Stockholm, 117 63, Sweden.,Academic Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.,Division of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Anton Gustavsson
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sandra Af Winklerfelt Hammarberg
- Liljeholmen Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Liljeholmstorget 7, Stockholm, 117 63, Sweden.,Academic Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.,Division of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Eva Toth-Pal
- Liljeholmen Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Liljeholmstorget 7, Stockholm, 117 63, Sweden.,Academic Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden.,Division of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Robert Johansson
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brjánn Ljótsson
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erland Axelsson
- Liljeholmen Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Liljeholmstorget 7, Stockholm, 117 63, Sweden. .,Academic Primary Health Care Center, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Division of Family Medicine and Primary Care, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden. .,Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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11
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Murillo C, Vo TT, Vansteelandt S, Harrison LE, Cagnie B, Coppieters I, Chys M, Timmers I, Meeus M. How do psychologically based interventions for chronic musculoskeletal pain work? A systematic review and meta-analysis of specific moderators and mediators of treatment. Clin Psychol Rev 2022; 94:102160. [PMID: 35561510 PMCID: PMC11146991 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2022.102160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Psychologically based interventions aim to improve pain-related functioning by targeting pain-related fears, cognitions and behaviors. Mediation and moderation analyses permit further examination of the effect of treatment on an outcome. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to synthetize the evidence of specific mediators and moderators (i.e., treatment targets) of psychologically based treatment effects on pain and disability. A total of 28 mediation and 11 moderation analyses were included. Thirteen mediation studies were included in a meta-analysis, and the rest was narratively synthetized. Reductions in pain-related fear (indirect effect [IE]: -0.07; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.11, -0.04) and catastrophizing (IE: -0.07; 95%CI: -0.14, -0.00), as well as increases in self-efficacy (IE: -0.07; 95%CI: -0.11, -0.04), mediated effects of cognitive behavioral therapy on disability but not on pain intensity, when compared to control treatments. Enhancing pain acceptance (IE: -0.17; 95%CI: -0.31, -0.03) and psychological flexibility (IE: -0.30; 95%CI: -0.41, -0.18) mediated acceptance and commitment therapy effects on disability. The narrative synthesis showed conflicting evidence, which did not support a robust moderated effect for any of the examined constructs. Overall, the methodological quality regarding mediation was low, and some key pitfalls are highlighted alongside recommendations to provide a platform for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Murillo
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium; Pain in Motion international research group, www.paininmotion.be, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie EikenUniversiteitsplein 12610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Tat-Thang Vo
- Department of Statistics, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, United States; Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Stijn Vansteelandt
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics, Ghent University, Belgium; Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren E Harrison
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Stanford University, California, United States
| | - Barbara Cagnie
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Iris Coppieters
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium; Pain in Motion international research group, www.paininmotion.be, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie EikenUniversiteitsplein 12610 Wilrijk, Belgium; Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
| | - Marjolein Chys
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Inge Timmers
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Stanford University, California, United States; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Maastricht University, Netherlands
| | - Mira Meeus
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium; Pain in Motion international research group, www.paininmotion.be, University of Antwerp, Campus Drie EikenUniversiteitsplein 12610 Wilrijk, Belgium; MOVANT research group, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Antwerp, Belgium.
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12
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Ball TM, Gunaydin LA. Measuring maladaptive avoidance: from animal models to clinical anxiety. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:978-986. [PMID: 35034097 PMCID: PMC8938494 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01263-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Avoiding stimuli that predict danger is required for survival. However, avoidance can become maladaptive in individuals who overestimate threat and thus avoid safe situations as well as dangerous ones. Excessive avoidance is a core feature of anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This avoidance prevents patients from confronting maladaptive threat beliefs, thereby maintaining disordered anxiety. Avoidance is associated with high levels of psychosocial impairment yet is poorly understood at a mechanistic level. Many objective laboratory assessments of avoidance measure adaptive avoidance, in which an individual learns to successfully avoid a truly noxious stimulus. However, anxiety disorders are characterized by maladaptive avoidance, for which there are fewer objective laboratory measures. We posit that maladaptive avoidance behavior depends on a combination of three altered neurobehavioral processes: (1) threat appraisal, (2) habitual avoidance, and (3) trait avoidance tendency. This heterogeneity in underlying processes presents challenges to the objective measurement of maladaptive avoidance behavior. Here we first review existing paradigms for measuring avoidance behavior and its underlying neural mechanisms in both human and animal models, and identify how existing paradigms relate to these neurobehavioral processes. We then propose a new framework to improve the translational understanding of maladaptive avoidance behavior by adapting paradigms to better differentiate underlying processes and mechanisms and applying these paradigms in clinical populations across diagnoses with the goal of developing novel interventions to engage specific identified neurobehavioral targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tali M. Ball
- grid.168010.e0000000419368956Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Lisa A. Gunaydin
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA ,grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
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13
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den Hollander M, Smeets RJEM, van Meulenbroek T, van Laake-Geelen CCM, Baadjou VA, Timmers I. Exposure in Vivo as a Treatment Approach to Target Pain-Related Fear: Theory and New Insights From Research and Clinical Practice. Phys Ther 2022; 102:6515749. [PMID: 35084025 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzab270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Pain-related fear (PRF) can be a significant factor contributing to the development and maintenance of pain-related disability in individuals with persistent pain. One treatment approach to target PRF and related avoidance behavior is exposure in vivo (EXP). EXP has a long history in the field of anxiety, a field that is constantly evolving. This Perspective outlines recent theoretical advancements and how they apply to EXP for PRF, including suggestions for how to optimize inhibitory learning during EXP; reviews mechanistic work from neuroimaging supporting the targeting of PRF in people with chronic pain; and focuses on clinical applications of EXP for PRF, as EXP is moving into new directions regarding who is receiving EXP (eg, EXP in chronic secondary pain) and how treatment is provided (EXP in primary care with a crucial role for physical therapists). Considerations are provided regarding challenges, remaining questions, and promising future perspectives. IMPACT For patients with chronic pain who have elevated pain-related fear (PRF), exposure is the treatment of choice. This Perspective highlights the inhibitory learning approach, summarizes mechanistic work from experimental psychology and neuroimaging regarding PRF in chronic pain, and describes possible clinical applications of EXP in chronic secondary pain as well as in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlies den Hollander
- Adelante Centre of Expertise in Rehabilitation and Audiology, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Rob J E M Smeets
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,CIR Revalidatie, location Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Thijs van Meulenbroek
- Adelante Centre of Expertise in Rehabilitation and Audiology, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Charlotte C M van Laake-Geelen
- Adelante Centre of Expertise in Rehabilitation and Audiology, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Vera A Baadjou
- Adelante Centre of Expertise in Rehabilitation and Audiology, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Inge Timmers
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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14
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Alaiti RK, Saragiotto BT, Fukusawa L, D A Rabelo N, de Oliveira AS. Choosing what works for whom: towards a better use of mechanistic knowledge in clinical practice. Arch Physiother 2021; 11:26. [PMID: 34847952 PMCID: PMC8638198 DOI: 10.1186/s40945-021-00122-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinicians commonly try to use mechanism-based knowledge to make sense of the complexity and uncertainty of chronic pain treatments to create a rationale for their clinical decision-making. Although this seems intuitive, there are some problems with this approach. DISCUSSION The widespread use of mechanism-based knowledge in clinical practice can be a source of confusion for clinicians, especially when complex interventions with different proposed mechanisms of action are equally effective. Although the available mechanistic evidence is still of very poor quality, in choosing from various treatment options for people with chronic pain, an approach that correctly incorporates mechanistic reasoning might aid clinical thinking and practice. CONCLUSION By explaining that not all evidence of mechanism is the same and by making a proposal to start using mechanism-based knowledge in clinical practice properly, we hope to help clinicians to incorporate mechanistic reasoning to prioritize and start choosing what may best work for whom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael K Alaiti
- Nucleus of Neuroscience and Behavior and Nucleus of Applied Neuroscience, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. .,Research, Technology, and Data Science Office, Grupo Superador, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Bruno T Saragiotto
- Masters and Doctoral Programs in Physical Therapy, Universidade Cidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Institute for Musculoskeletal Health, School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Leandro Fukusawa
- Research, Technology, and Data Science Office, Grupo Superador, São Paulo, Brazil.,Faculdade de Ciências Médicas Santa Casa de São Paulo, Masters and Doctoral Programs in Health Science, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nayra D A Rabelo
- Human Motion Analysis Laboratory, Rehabilitation Sciences Department, Universidade Nove de Julho - UNINOVE, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Anamaria S de Oliveira
- Health Sciences Department, University of São Paulo, School of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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15
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Bonnert M, Särnholm J, Andersson E, Bergström SE, Lalouni M, Lundholm C, Serlachius E, Almqvist C. Targeting excessive avoidance behavior to reduce anxiety related to asthma: A feasibility study of an exposure-based treatment delivered online. Internet Interv 2021; 25:100415. [PMID: 34401374 PMCID: PMC8350602 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2021.100415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an established relationship between anxiety and asthma, which is associated with poor health outcomes. Most previous cognitive behavior therapies (CBT) have focused on comorbid panic disorder whereas anxiety related to asthma may rather be illness-specific. The feasibility of an online CBT targeting avoidance behavior in anxiety related to asthma was evaluated, using a pretest-posttest design. Thirty participants with self-reported anxiety related to asthma were offered an eight-week treatment with therapist support. Mean adherence was good (80% of content), and most participants (89%) reported adequate relief after treatment. Catastrophizing about asthma (CAS), assessed at 2 months after treatment, improved significantly with a large effect size (Cohen's d = 1.52). All secondary outcomes, including asthma control, avoidance behavior, fear of asthma symptoms and quality of life, improved significantly with moderate to large effect sizes (d: 0.40-1.44). All improvements were stable at 4 months follow up. Weekly ratings showed that a decrease in avoidance behavior predicted a decrease in CAS the following week throughout the treatment period. We conclude that CBT targeting avoidance behavior is a feasible treatment for anxiety related to asthma. The results justify investigation of efficacy and mechanisms of change in a randomized controlled trial. ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT03486756.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Bonnert
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, Nobels väg 12, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, Norra Stationsgatan 69, 113 64 Stockholm, Sweden,Corresponding author at: Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, Nobels väg 12, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Josefin Särnholm
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, Nobels väg 9, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erik Andersson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, Nobels väg 9, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden,Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, CAP Research Centre, Gävlegatan 22, SE-113 30 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sten-Erik Bergström
- Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit at Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Lalouni
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Neuro, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, Nobels väg 9, 171 65 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Lundholm
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, Nobels väg 12, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Serlachius
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, Norra Stationsgatan 69, 113 64 Stockholm, Sweden,Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, CAP Research Centre, Gävlegatan 22, SE-113 30 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Catarina Almqvist
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, Nobels väg 12, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden,Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit at Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Optimizing Long-term Outcomes of Exposure for Chronic Primary Pain from the Lens of Learning Theory. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2021; 22:1315-1327. [PMID: 34029684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Exposure in vivo is a theory-driven and widely used treatment to tackle functional disability in people with chronic primary pain. Exposure is quite effective; yet, in line with exposure outcomes for anxiety disorders, a number of patients may not profit from it, or relapse. In this focus article, we critically reflect on the current exposure protocols in chronic primary pain, and provide recommendations on how to optimize them. We propose several adaptations that are expected to strengthen inhibitory learning and/or retrieval of the extinction memory, thus likely decreasing relapse. We summarize the limited, but emerging experimental data in the pain domain, and draw parallels with experimental evidence in the anxiety literature. Our reflections and suggestions pertain to the use of the fear hierarchy, reassurance, positive psychology interventions, exposure with a range of stimuli and within different contexts, and the use of safety behaviors during treatment, as well as associating the fear-inducing stimuli with novel outcomes. In addition, we reflect on the importance of specifically tackling (the return of) pain-related avoidance behavior with techniques such as disentangling fear from avoidance and reinforcing approach behaviors. Finally, we discuss challenges in the clinical application of exposure to improve functioning in chronic primary pain and possible avenues for future research. Perspectives: Inspired by recent advances in learning theory and its applications on the treatment of anxiety disorders, we reflect on the delivery of exposure treatment for chronic primary pain and propose strategies to improve its long-term outcomes.
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17
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Särnholm J, Skúladóttir H, Rück C, Klavebäck S, Ólafsdóttir E, Pedersen SS, Braunschweig F, Ljótsson B. Internet-Delivered Exposure-Based Therapy for Symptom Preoccupation in Atrial Fibrillation: Uncontrolled Pilot Trial. JMIR Cardio 2021; 5:e24524. [PMID: 33650972 PMCID: PMC8411432 DOI: 10.2196/24524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in the adult population. AF is associated with a poor quality of life (QoL) and, in many patients, current medical treatments are inadequate in alleviating AF symptoms (eg, palpitations). Patients often present with symptom preoccupation in terms of symptom fear, avoidance, and control behaviors. Internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy is effective for treating other somatic disorders but has never been evaluated in patients with AF. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of AF-specific internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy. METHODS We conducted an uncontrolled pilot study in which 19 patients with symptomatic paroxysmal AF underwent internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy. Participants completed self-assessments at pretreatment, posttreatment, and at a 6-month follow-up along with handheld electrocardiogram measurements with symptom registration. The treatment lasted 10 weeks and included exposure to physical sensations, reduction in avoidance behavior, and behavioral activation. RESULTS We observed large within-group improvements in the primary outcome, AF-specific QoL (Cohen d=0.80; P<.001), and in symptom preoccupation (Cohen d=1.24; P<.001) at posttreatment; the results were maintained at the 6-month follow-up. Treatment satisfaction and adherence rates were also high. We observed an increased AF burden, measured by electrocardiogram, at the 6-month follow-up, but a significant decrease was observed in the overestimation of AF symptoms at posttreatment and 6-month follow-up. Exploratory mediation analysis showed that a reduction in symptom preoccupation mediated the effects of internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy on AF-specific QoL. CONCLUSIONS This study presents preliminary evidence for the potential efficacy and feasibility of a novel approach in treating patients with symptomatic AF with internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02694276; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02694276.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefin Särnholm
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helga Skúladóttir
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christian Rück
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sofia Klavebäck
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Ólafsdóttir
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanne S Pedersen
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Department of Cardiology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Frieder Braunschweig
- Department of Medicine, Cardiology Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brjánn Ljótsson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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18
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Emmerich AC, Friehs T, Crombez G, Glombiewski JA. Self-compassion predicting pain, depression and anger in people suffering from chronic pain: A prospective study. Eur J Pain 2021; 24:1902-1914. [PMID: 33448520 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Self-compassion is associated with disability, pain-related anxiety as well as depression and anger in patients with chronic pain. However, the unique value of self-compassion versus other concepts such as psychological flexibility and self-esteem is unknown. The present study therefore aimed to clarify these relationships. Individuals with chronic pain (NCP = 872) and without chronic pain (NNP = 356) took part in a longitudinal study. Participants completed self-report instruments: Pain Disability Index (PDI), Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), Pain Anxiety Symptom Scale (PASS-20), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), State Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI), Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), Psychological Inflexibility in Pain Scale (PIPS) and Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES). Assessments were repeated after 8 weeks. We found differences in baseline levels of all relevant variables except for anger-out and anger-control between people with and without chronic pain. Subsequently, we computed a path model analysis regarding individuals suffering from chronic pain (NCP), addressing the predictive value of reduced uncompassionate self-responding (RUS), compassionate self-responding (CS), avoidance (PIPS), cognitive fusion (PIPS) and self-esteem (RSES) regarding pain-related (PDI, PCS, PASS) and emotional variables (PHQ-9, STAXI). Avoidance predicted disability, catastrophizing, anxiety and depression. RUS predicted catastrophizing and pain-related anxiety. Self-esteem predicted depression. CS and cognitive fusion had no unique predictive value. The model explained 65.4%-72.1% of the variance in pain-related variables, 68.7% of the variance in depression and 38.7%-60.7% in the variance of anger-related variables. In conclusion, psychological flexibility, in terms of avoidance, seems to be more relevant for chronic pain than self-compassion. Future research should focus on subgroups and tailored-treatment approaches. SIGNIFICANCE: Applying a longitudinal design, this study examined the predictive value of self-compassion regarding pain, depression and anger. The relevance of self-compassion was compared to psychological flexibility and self-esteem. We can conclude that psychological flexibility, in terms of avoidance behaviour, is the most relevant predictor concerning pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Carina Emmerich
- Pain and Psychotherapy Research Lab, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University Koblenz-Landau, Landau, Germany
| | - Thilo Friehs
- Pain and Psychotherapy Research Lab, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University Koblenz-Landau, Landau, Germany
| | - Geert Crombez
- Department of Experimental-Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Julia Anna Glombiewski
- Pain and Psychotherapy Research Lab, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University Koblenz-Landau, Landau, Germany
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Maroti D, Johansson R. Is Cognitive Change Necessary to Alleviate Symptoms in Patients With Functional Somatic Syndrome? Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:781083. [PMID: 34795604 PMCID: PMC8593391 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.781083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Maroti
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robert Johansson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Catala P, Lopez-Roig S, Ecija C, Suso-Ribera C, Peñacoba Puente C. Why do some people with severe chronic pain adhere to walking prescriptions whilst others won't? A cross-sectional study exploring clinical and psychosocial predictors in women with fibromyalgia. Rheumatol Int 2020; 41:1479-1484. [PMID: 33048198 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-020-04719-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a highly disabling condition characterized by widespread chronic pain. Physical exercise, such as walking, has been recommended as the treatment of choice for FM. However, adherence to physical exercise tends to be poor. Pain is one of the main inhibitors to adhere to walking in FM patients. The main objective of this study has been to determine whether there is a clinical and psychosocial profile to help predict individual differences in adherence to walking in a sample of patients with FM with severe pain levels. In this cross-sectional study, the sample was composed of 172 women with FM and severe pain levels (> 7 in an 11-point numerical scale). Women were classified into two groups: (1) those who walked regularly and (2) patients who rarely or never walked. Group differences regarding clinical outcomes (e.g., FM impact, anxiety, depression, cognitive fusion, catastrophizing, affect, and personality), sociodemographic variables, and medical history were analyzed. Patients who walked despite pain significantly reported less impact of FM, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, cognitive fusion, negative affect, openness to experience, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. The unique predictors of group membership (walking versus no walking) in a binary regression were FM impact and negative affect. The results show that adherence to exercise might be influenced and predicted by the clinical profile of the patient, which suggests that personalized motivational interventions should be addressed to this at-risk subgroup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Catala
- Department of Psychology, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. de Atenas S/N, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sofia Lopez-Roig
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health, Universidad Miguel Hernández, Alicante, Spain
| | - Carmen Ecija
- Department of Psychology, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. de Atenas S/N, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Suso-Ribera
- Department of Basic and Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Jaume I University, Castellón, Spain
| | - Cecilia Peñacoba Puente
- Department of Psychology, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. de Atenas S/N, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
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