The Effect of a Mindfulness-based Program on Musculoskeletal Pain and Function

Authors

Christine Conroy, Midwestern UniversityFollow
Kent E. Irwin, Midwestern UniversityFollow
Paige Dougherty, XRHealthFollow
Teresa Elliott-Burke, Midwestern UniversityFollow

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a structured therapeutic tool that was developed in the 1980s by Kabat-Zinn and colleagues. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have been developed based on the fundamental principles of MBSR and are an emerging area of research. These programs are used to decrease pain levels and kinesiophobia in patients with chronic disease and pain. The purpose of this case study is to describe the effects of MBIs on function and pain for a middle-aged patient, two-months post-proximal humerus fracture.

Case Description: A 53-year-old woman presented status post closed fracture of the proximal right humerus resulting from a fall at work. Physical therapy findings 8 weeks post injury revealed deficits in glenohumeral range of motion, shoulder muscle strength, and grip strength as well as apprehension to movement and an inability to perform job and home duties. The MBIs were introduced as an adjunct therapy seven weeks into the plan of care to further decrease pain and apprehension to movement from trauma.

Outcomes: By the end of 13 weeks of physical therapy, the patient’s outcomes had significantly improved, allowing her to have better participation in therapy and her home exercise program, and ultimately, she was able to perform activities of daily living, return to work, and participate in social engagements.

Discussion: Functional outcome measures using the DASH and the SPADI showed a 50% improvement after introduction of MBIs. The patient accomplished this through improved body awareness, decreased negative thoughts regarding body perception, decreased perceived pain, and an improvement in fear of movement. The primary MBIs implemented by the physical therapist were mindful body scan, mindful breathing, and mindful movement.

Conclusion: The use of MBIs was shown to be beneficial for this patient with a sub-acute proximal humerus fracture diagnosis.

Author Bio(s)

Christine Conroy, PT, MHS, DPT, PhD, FNAP is a tenured full Professor with the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL and a fellow of the National Academies of Practice.

Kent E Irwin, PT, DHS, GCS is a tenured full Professor with the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL and Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy and an Advanced Credentialed Clinical Instructor through the APTA.

Paige Dougherty, DPT, ATC is a physical therapist with XRHealth.

Teri Elliot-Burke, PT, DPT, MHS, WCS is a Clinical Associate Professor with Midwestern University and Academic Clinical Coordinator of the Physical Therapy Institute at the Midwestern University Multipspeciality Clinic

Recommended Citation

Conroy C, Irwin KE, Dougherty P, Elliott-Burke T. The Effect of a Mindfulness-based Program on Musculoskeletal Pain and Function. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2026 Mar 03;24(1), Article 8.