For the millions of Americans, including many based in Florida living with high-impact chronic pain, a new study offers hope, and it doesn’t come in a pill bottle. According to a clinical trial recently published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Network, individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain experienced significant relief through behavioral support programs grounded in cognitive behavioral strategies.
Health Coaching Outperformed Other Approaches
The study followed 2,331 adults who were randomly assigned to one of three groups:
- Health coach-led program via phone or video
- Self-guided online program
- Usual care with a resource guide
After three months, 32% of participants in the health coach group saw a significant improvement in their pain severity, compared to just 20.8% in the usual care group. The improvements weren’t just short-term either. Benefits lasted up to 12 months, showing that guided behavioral strategies through coaching can lead to sustainable change, especially when delivered consistently and with human support.
Why Coaching Works for Chronic Pain
Health coaches are trained in behavior change strategies that help people make long-term lifestyle shifts. Things like pacing activities, managing stress, improving sleep, and setting achievable goals. These small shifts, grounded in cognitive behavioral techniques, have been shown to reduce how the brain processes pain. Rather than focusing on eliminating pain completely, coaching helps people regain control over how they live with it. That’s a key distinction, and it’s one that can make all the difference.
A Shift from Medication to Mindset
Painkillers and surgical interventions are not always effective or sustainable for long-term pain management and often come with side effects or complications. That’s why the CDC and other medical authorities now recommend non-pharmacologic strategies as a first-line approach for chronic pain. This study reinforces the idea that behavioral interventions are not “alternative,” they’re essential.
What This Means for You or a Loved One
If you or someone you care about is struggling with chronic pain and looking for pain relief in Florida or virtually, it may be time to consider a different approach, one that centers empowerment, behavior change, and support.
Whether through structured coaching sessions or a self-paced online course, cognitive behavioral skills can help you:
- Reduce the intensity and interference of pain
- Rebuild confidence in your body
- Improve daily functioning
- Regain a sense of control and resilience
Final Thought
You don’t have to push through pain alone. As this study shows, the right kind of support, even delivered remotely can make a significant difference. At Mind Wave Wellness, we support clients across the country, including those searching for holistic pain relief in Florida through virtual health coaching designed to improve your quality of life.
Source: “Effectiveness of Remote Cognitive Behavioral Therapy–Based Interventions for Individuals With High-Impact Chronic Pain” – JAMA Network Open, July 2024
Trial Registration: NCT04523714
