Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Project

College/School

College of Nursing

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Project Mentor

Diane Fuller Switzer

Readers

Leeann Yang

Abstract

Background: Chronic pain and opioid overuse remain critical public health issues in the United States, disproportionately affecting military veterans. Traditional pharmacologic treatments often fall short of addressing the complex biopsychosocial dimensions of chronic pain. Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) is a promising, evidence-based approach that empowers patients by helping them reframe their understanding of pain, thus potentially reducing pain severity and reliance on medications.

Purpose: This quality improvement project aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PNE in reducing perceived pain severity, enhancing self-efficacy, and reframing pain narratives among veterans experiencing chronic pain.

Methods: The intervention consisted of three group-based PNE sessions delivered weekly over three weeks at Compass Housing Alliance, a transitional housing site for veterans. Each session incorporated interactive lectures, guided relaxation, and opportunities for reflection. Data were collected using validated instruments, including the Revised Moseley Pain Neuroscience Questionnaire (rNPQ), the Department of Defense & Veteran Affairs Pain Supplemental Questions (DVPRS), VA Pain Numeric Rating Scale (NPRS), and qualitative survey questions.

Results: Participants demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in pain intensity. Qualitative feedback reflected an improvement in pain literacy and a positive reception of the PNE content.

Conclusion: PNE may serve as a sustainable, nonpharmacologic adjunct to pain management among veterans. This project contributes to expanding access to holistic care models in underserved veteran populations and aligns with national priorities to reduce opioid dependence and improve chronic pain outcomes.

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