Empowered Relief for Chronic Pain

This trial explores a new method for managing chronic pain called Empowered Relief, led by nurses. The researchers aim to determine if this approach can more effectively reduce pain intensity and improve related issues like sleep and mood compared to standard health education. Participants will either attend a 2-hour online class on pain management or receive typical health education, then report their progress through surveys. Ideal candidates for this trial are individuals with ongoing pain for more than three months that frequently disrupts daily life. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative pain management research.

Research has shown that Empowered Relief, a one-session pain relief class, safely reduces chronic pain. In earlier studies, participants reported high satisfaction and engagement with the class. They found it as effective as other methods, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), in reducing pain and related symptoms. No serious side effects were reported, indicating it is well-tolerated by participants. Overall, Empowered Relief appears to be a safe option for those dealing with chronic pain.¹²³⁴⁵

Empowered Relief is unique because it offers a novel approach to managing chronic pain through a digital format, specifically a 2-hour Zoom class led by an ER-trained registered nurse. Unlike traditional treatments like medication or physical therapy, this method focuses on teaching pain management skills in a single, accessible session. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it could provide an effective, convenient, and non-pharmacological option for those suffering from chronic pain, potentially reducing the reliance on long-term medication use.

Research has shown that Empowered Relief, a one-session class teaching pain relief skills, effectively reduces chronic pain. One study found that this class lowers both the intensity of pain and its disruption of daily activities. Another study demonstrated that it works as well as cognitive behavioral therapy for pain, which typically requires more time. Additionally, Empowered Relief improved sleep and made pain less bothersome. In this trial, participants will be randomized to either the Empowered Relief group or a Health Education group to compare the effectiveness of these interventions. These findings suggest that Empowered Relief can be a useful tool for managing chronic pain.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰