Impact of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing to improve pain and function in chronic pain patients

The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project was to determine the impact of EMDR on pain and function in chronic pain patients with a history of trauma.

Article Abstract

“Chronic pain is often linked to a history of psychological trauma. The symptoms of pain are usually challenging to treat and resolve in this patient population, partly due to the body’s creation of a maladaptive response to the traumatic event. Despite the high correlation of chronic pain and trauma, screening for trauma in chronic pain management settings is not a common occurrence. The absence of this screening could create barriers to adequate treatment for trauma and its associated somatic symptoms. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a psychotherapy used to treat trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder, has shown positive results in reducing pain intensity in this population. The purpose of this DNP project was to determine the impact of EMDR on pain and function in chronic pain patients with a history of trauma. The interventions included screening for trauma and the implementation of EMDR therapy through weekly or biweekly sessions, completing the eight phases of the therapy. The project did not yield statistically significant results for pain intensity, physical function, or coping, but positive outcomes were observed among several participants. Despite not yielding statistically significant results in pain intensity, physical function, or coping, positive outcomes were still noted among the participants. Some patients did have reduced pain scores from baseline, and a few were able to return to work. This DNP project demonstrated the importance of trauma-focused care in pain management settings”

Article Access

Open Access

Willman, J. (2026). Impact of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing to improve pain and function in chronic pain patients. [Doctoral Nursing Project, Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing, 32738612].  Open access: https://www.proquest.com/openview/67911a2ca66aa06a9cea58ae7e4260ce/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y