Why is it SO HARD to Believe Our Chronic Pain or Symptoms are a Mind Body Concern?
Nov 2, 2023
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The podcast discusses reasons why we struggle to believe chronic pain is a mind-body concern, challenges in accepting neuroplasticity, exploring conditioned responses in symptoms, and overcoming doubt through others' experiences.
27:21
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Quick takeaways
Chronic pain perception can be influenced by conditioned responses to activities, leading to mistaken associations.
Acknowledging that certain diagnoses are linked to nervous system sensitivities, not structural damage, can help reframe perspectives on pain.
Deep dives
Understanding the Biological Instinct of Pain Equals Harm
Individuals often believe that pain equates to harm due to a biological instinct, especially in cases of acute injuries where the association between pain and bodily damage is clear. Despite the importance of seeking medical attention for acute conditions, this instinct can lead to misconceptions in cases of chronic pain. Conditions like neuroplastic pain can persist even after the body has healed, challenging the belief system that equates pain solely with physical harm.
Challenging Mistaken Conditioned Responses
Conditioned responses play a significant role in linking activities or movements to pain, creating mistaken associations that perpetuate chronic symptoms. These associations can lead to avoidant behaviors that reinforce the belief of bodily damage, further intensifying the pain experience. Overcoming these conditioned responses involves reevaluating the accuracy of these associations and gradually reintroducing activities to reshape the brain's responses.
Navigating Medical Diagnoses and Neuroplastic Pain
Medical diagnoses present a substantial challenge in acknowledging neuroplastic pain, as some conditions may be inaccurately linked to structural damage. Understanding that certain diagnoses, like fibromyalgia, are more related to nervous system sensitivities rather than physical damage can help individuals reframe their perspectives on pain. By engaging with pain science and studies that support mind-body interventions, individuals can gain insights into the potential for symptom reduction and healing outside traditional medical paradigms.
This week we discuss 3 reasons why we struggle to believe our chronic pain and symptoms are neuroplastic or a mind-body concern, and how we can begin to overcome our doubt.
Happy healing!
This podcast is owned by Pain Psychotherapy Canada Inc. This podcast is produced by Alex Klassen.
Together we have a therapy agency called Pain Psychotherapy Canada. Learn more about our work on our website and book in for a free 20 minute consultation with one of our therapists: https://www.painpsychotherapy.ca/
Our agency MBody Community provides an in depth course to support you in healing from chronic pain and symptoms: https://www.mbodycommunity.com/
We also post daily on instagram: @painpsychotherapy
Disclaimer: The information provided by Anne and Tanner on this podcast is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, psychotherapy, or counselling. It you choose to utilize any of the education, strategies, or techniques in this podcast you are doing so at your own risk.
Education and techniques discussed in this Podcast originate from Polyvagal Theory, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy. Reference: Peter Levine, Deb Dana, Dr. Porges, Pain Reprocessing Therapy Center, Alan Gordon, Dr. Schubiner, and Dr. Lumley.
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