UNDERSTANDING PAIN

Current developments in brain imaging techniques such as functional MRI are able to demonstrate a diminished pain response in the brain after one on one education sessions about the physiology of pain.

Studies show that pain neurophysiology education will improve the outcome of other therapeutic approaches such as various treatment and exercise strategies (Moseley 2003b).

Key Points About Pain

Pain, like inflammation starts out as a protective process in the brain.

Pain is a healthy and normal warning system; it is not to be feared!

Initially pain is activated to ensure survival and is simply a warning alarm.

The intensity of the pain, does not necessarily reflect the amount of tissue damage.

Unfortunately, our thoughts, beliefs, experiences, and circumstances around pain transform it into a fear process.

COMMON FEARS associated with pain

• The seriousness of the cause of the pain (do I have cancer?)
• Not being believed
• Certain movements or any movements
• Re-injuring or making it worse
• Not being able to work

FEAR

Fear is a powerful motivator.

It contributes to how you move, behave, and experience pain

Fear can lead you into a cycle of pain and disability

Any fear can re-ignite the pain producing system

The brain wants to protect you from anything that it perceives as dangerous.

Remember!!! Thoughts, beliefs, and fears are actually nerve impulses in the brain causing electrochemical changes. These electrochemical changes can ignite and perpetuate the pain neuromatrix in the brain long after tissue healing has taken place.

COPING STRATIGIES FOR THE CLIENT

Learn about the problem

Learn about and understand pain

Recognize “I’m sore but I’m safe”

Explore ways to move and “nudge” the pain

Surround yourself with a health care team that helps you understand your situation and provides you with tools and strategies to move forward.

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