Mindfulness for Broken Bones

(MIRROR Trial)

This trial explores whether mindfulness exercises can help individuals with broken arms or legs manage pain and anxiety during surgery. Participants will listen to short audio recordings before and after surgery. One group will engage in mindfulness exercises (Mindfulness Based Intervention), while the other will listen to educational content. Researchers aim to determine if this approach can reduce the need for opioid pain medications. The trial seeks participants who require surgery for a broken arm or leg at Hamilton General Hospital. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative pain management strategies without the constraints of traditional clinical trial phases.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on using mindfulness exercises to help manage pain and anxiety.

Research has shown that mindfulness practices are generally safe and well-tolerated by most people. Studies have found that mindfulness can reduce stress and improve mental health without causing serious side effects. In previous research, individuals using mindfulness techniques demonstrated better control over anxiety and pain, which is promising for those recovering from surgery.

Mindfulness has been used successfully in many situations and is known to have a calming effect. It helps individuals focus better and manage stress, which can be especially helpful when dealing with the pain and anxiety of a broken bone. Importantly, mindfulness does not involve medication, so there is no risk of drug-related side effects or addiction.

Researchers are excited about the Mindfulness Based Intervention for broken bones because it offers a non-pharmacological approach to pain management, unlike standard treatments such as pain medications and physical therapy. This intervention uses a 7-minute, audio-guided mindful breathing exercise to help patients manage pain both before and after surgery. By focusing on mindfulness, this method could reduce the reliance on pain medications, which often come with side effects and risk of dependency. The simplicity and accessibility of using an iPad and headphones make it an innovative addition to standard care practices, potentially enhancing recovery experiences for patients.

Research has shown that mindfulness practices can help reduce pain and anxiety. Studies have found that these techniques also assist with stress, depression, and addiction. Mindfulness can alter how the brain perceives pain, making it seem less intense. People who practice mindfulness often feel calmer and more in control of their emotions. This trial will compare a Mindfulness-Based Intervention with an Educational Recording. Participants may receive the Mindfulness-Based Intervention, which involves audio-guided mindfulness practices focused on pain management. This method has proven effective in various situations, suggesting it might also aid those recovering from surgery. Overall, mindfulness could be a useful way to manage pain and reduce the need for painkillers like opioids.⁴⁶⁷⁸⁹