The influence of mindfulness on upper extremity illness.

Abstract

Previous studies suggest a benefit of mindfulness-based interventions on pain conditions. This study addresses the null hypothesis that mindfulness is not correlated with pain intensity or magnitude of disability in orthopedic upper extremity conditions. In a prospective cohort, the correlation of the two separate aspects of mindfulness-acceptance and awareness-with disability and pain intensity was tested in patients with nonacute upper extremity conditions. Regression analyses were performed to determine factors associated with arm-specific disability and pain intensity. Awareness and acceptance both correlated with arm-specific disability, but only awareness was retained as a predictor in the best multivariable model. Neither awareness nor acceptance correlated with pain intensity. Pain interference and symptoms of depression accounted for more of the variation in disability and pain intensity. Improved mood and decreased pain interference (a greater sense that one can accomplish one's goals in spite of pain) may be more fruitful than increased mindfulness for patients with nonacute conditions of the upper extremity.