Mindfulness Meditation Confers Mixed Benefits in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain

The high prevalence of chronic pain and increasing concerns about risks associated with anti-inflammatory and opioid analgesics have focused attention on nonpharmacological approaches to pain control. In this study, 282 community-dwelling older adults (mean age, 75; 66% women) with functional limitations related to moderate-intensity low back pain (duration, ≥3 months) were randomized to mindfulness meditation or usual education. Mindfulness meditation training consisted of eight weekly 90-minute group sessions on mind–body techniques, including directed breathing and mindful awareness of thoughts and sensations. Control participants received eight weekly group sessions focused on health education. Patients with serious illnesses or mental …