The previous study from this center has been updated with a much larger number of 126 patients to provide even more evidence of the remarkable benefits of Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy. In this study, the veterans (average age 72 years, 92% male, 55% African American) with chronic musculoskeletal pain were randomized to receive either EAET (Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy, a form of Pain Relief Psychotherapy) or CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). CBT is the most widely available form of psychotherapy in the U.S. Both treatments were provided as one 90-minute individual session and eight 90-minute group sessions.  The goal for patients was to achieve at least 30% pain relief.

To understand the importance of a new research paper, you should know that the vertebral bones of the spine have several important functions. They must protect the spinal cord, support the head and upper body, and enable egress of nerves that carry sensation and control muscles. They also need to remain flexible enough to allow freedom of movement. To accomplish all this, the vertebra has a complex yet marvelously esthetic structure that includes two wing-like bones called facets. They connect to the main vertebra via a small joint.