The study conducted by researchers at Florida State University focuses on finding the optimal treatment duration for people suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain. This condition includes long-term pain affecting muscles, bones, and joints. The study aims to determine how different lengths of pain management training can help reduce pain effectively. By comparing two brief training sessions against a standard-length training session, the researchers hope to identify the best approach that provides significant pain relief while being time-efficient for patients. This research is important as it could lead to more effective and accessible pain management strategies for those dealing with chronic pain. Participants in this study will be randomly assigned to one of three groups. Two groups will participate in a brief, single 2-hour online session, while the third group will attend eight weekly 2-hour online sessions. In all sessions, a trained facilitator will teach pain management techniques that have been proven to be effective through research. Participants will also complete short surveys at various stages: before starting the treatment, right after the session, and over several weeks afterward, to track their pain levels and the effectiveness of the training. This design helps researchers understand not only how well the techniques work immediately but also their lasting impact over time.
Inclusion Criteria: * (1) having a chronic musculoskeletal pain condition, (2) average pain of ≥ 3 in the previous week, (3) willingness to engage with study assessments and interventions, (4) understanding English instructions fluently, and (5) being 18 and above. Exclusion Criteria: * (1) unable to consent because of physical or mental incapacity, (2) have previous, formal mindfulness training (e.g., MBSR) or previously receiving Empowered Relief, (3) have pain from a current cancer diagnosis or cancer-related treatment, (4) unstable illness that may interfere with treatment, (5) had surgery within the previous three months, and (6) had pain relieving injections, such as cortisone or hyaluronate, within the previous three months.
are designated in this study