Zoom and Smartwatches Reduce Opioid Cravings and Chronic Pain: A recent study in Mindfulness Journal found that MORE delivered via Zoom and smartwatches can reduce opioid cravings and chronic pain symptoms. Participants who received MORE treatment reported greater reductions in pain and cravings compared to those who received group therapy. The smartwatches, designed to promote mindfulness during stress, effectively reduce stress and improve well-being.
MORE combines mindfulness and CBT to manage chronic pain, opioid misuse, and addiction. The study tested if adding technology to MORE improves its performance. The author, Eric Garland, a Professor at the University of Utah, said, “This study is a step toward personalized mindfulness treatment.”
Study participants were mostly white and had an average age of 53.6 years. These individuals suffered for an average of 18.4 years and consumed 130.3 mg of morphine daily. The participants were divided into two groups. One group did MORE treatment via Zoom, while the other participated in online therapy. Both groups received smartwatches to detect stress in their bodies.
During the study, participants’ smartphones were used to send surveys about opioid cravings, pain, stress, and positive emotions. When it senses your stress, the smartwatch would prompt mindfulness. When treatment was combined with smartwatch reminders, pain symptoms and opioid use decreased. The smartwatch’s mindfulness drills made it easier to handle stress.
ALSO READ: Garmin and Apple Watch Enhance Wellness: Smartwatch Stress Tracking
Garland said, “We wanted to use sensors to detect stress and remind the patient to use mindfulness skills when needed.” He said that despite numerous mindfulness apps, none offer a treatment plan that adjusts to the user’s physical state.
The study has some flaws. Due to its composition, it’s impossible to distinguish the individual impacts of telehealth MORE treatment and smartwatch-based alerts. The study offers key insights into how technology can benefit individuals with chronic pain and opioid abuse.
The study may impact healthcare workers and policymakers seeking non-opioid pain treatment alternatives. It shows that complex therapies can be delivered via telehealth with wearable tech. This method could be a big step toward personalized treatments for chronic pain and opioid addiction.