Mindfulness for Postoperative Pain and Anxiety
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and focusing on the present, can help patients manage pain and anxiety after colorectal surgery. Participants will either learn mindfulness techniques or receive standard treatment. The goal is to determine if mindfulness can improve recovery by reducing pain levels and the need for pain medication. This trial may suit those scheduled for bowel resection surgery at specific University Hospitals locations who have internet access.
As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to explore innovative pain management techniques that could enhance their recovery experience.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on teaching mindfulness techniques rather than changing medication use.
What prior data suggests that this mindfulness intervention is safe for postoperative patients?
Research has shown that mindfulness exercises are generally safe. Studies have found these techniques can improve mental health and reduce stress without major safety issues. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing and focusing on the present moment, are easy for most people to perform. No reports indicate serious problems from using mindfulness to manage post-surgery pain. Participants usually find these exercises helpful and simple to follow.
This trial will explore how well mindfulness reduces pain and anxiety after surgery. Participants in the mindfulness group will learn easy exercises to help them feel calmer. This method is non-invasive and doesn't involve medication, enhancing its safety.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Mindfulness Intervention for postoperative pain and anxiety because it offers a non-drug approach that empowers patients to manage their symptoms through mental techniques. Unlike standard care that typically involves medication and physical therapy, this intervention teaches patients mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing and present-moment awareness, which can be practiced anywhere without side effects. Another standout feature is the convenience of delivery, as patients receive training via Zoom, making it accessible and easy to integrate into their pre- and post-surgery routine. This method could revolutionize how we support recovery, providing patients with tools to reduce pain and anxiety naturally.
What evidence suggests that mindfulness is effective for managing postoperative pain and anxiety?
Research has shown that mindfulness can help reduce anxiety and pain for patients undergoing surgery. In this trial, participants in the Mindfulness Intervention group will learn exercises such as deep breathing and focusing on the present moment. Studies have found these techniques can lower anxiety levels after surgery. Notably, nine out of ten studies reported reduced anxiety with meditation techniques. Additionally, mindfulness has been shown to reduce pain in most cases. This suggests that learning mindfulness before surgery might help patients feel calmer and manage pain better afterward. Participants in the Standard Care group will follow standard protocols without specific mindfulness interventions.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Emily Steinhagen, MD
Principal Investigator
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals undergoing colorectal surgery, aiming to see if mindfulness can help with postoperative pain and anxiety. Participants must be willing to learn and practice mindfulness exercises via Zoom before and after surgery, complete questionnaires, and possibly engage in a follow-up interview.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-Surgery Mindfulness Training
Participants in the Mindfulness group have a 30-minute Zoom session to learn mindfulness exercises
Post-Surgery Recovery
Participants watch a video review of mindfulness exercises and complete daily text message check-ins
Follow-up
Participants complete questionnaires and some participate in a semi-structured interview via Zoom
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Mindfulness Intervention
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
UH Connor Whole Health
Collaborator