Exposure-based Interventions for Chronic Pain and Bodily Symptoms: A Special Interest Meeting Report

Behav Res Ther. 2026 Feb 24;199:104998. doi: 10.1016/j.brat.2026.104998. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

More than two decades have passed since exposure-based interventions were first applied to four individuals with chronic low back pain reporting pain-related fear. To reflect on the progress made since then, an international Special Interest Meeting gathered experts for two days of active dialogue and discussion focusing on the theoretical foundations of exposure-based interventions and their broader application to bodily symptoms from an interdisciplinary perspective. In a subsequent joint paper, the participants summarized how exposure-based interventions have been applied across clinical settings (psychology, behavioral and rehabilitation medicine), treatment providers (psychologists, physiotherapists, physiatrists), delivery formats (digital and in-person), and treatment adaptations (for different age groups and co-occurring conditions). Beyond chronic pain, emerging applications have also extended to a wider range of bodily symptoms, including chronic neuropathic pain, post-concussion symptoms, tinnitus, female genitopelvic pain, cardiovascular symptoms, and gastrointestinal symptoms. To facilitate implementation in clinical practice, the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used to systematically identify evidence gaps and inform a strategic roadmap for future research. Theoretical models that have shaped the field were examined for their potential to guide future innovation. Continued research is needed to clarify which individuals benefit most within a matched care framework and to identify optimal strategies for implementation in routine practice.

PMID:41762768 | DOI:10.1016/j.brat.2026.104998