Decoding Pain/Symptom Flares Part 2: A Process for Coming Out of a Flare
Aug 1, 2024
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In this episode, Tanner shares a relatable personal story about a sudden pain flare during his recovery journey in Ontario. He discusses the emotional and physical challenges that accompany such flare-ups, emphasizing the role of conditioned responses and stress. The conversation introduces a practical three-step process to manage these challenges, including identifying root causes and recognizing triggers. With real-life examples, Tanner empowers listeners to navigate their healing journeys with confidence and resilience.
Identifying triggers for pain flares, such as conditioned responses and emotional dysregulation, is essential for effective management during healing.
Implementing a three-step process—recognizing contributing factors, understanding the broader context, and shifting to safety—empowers individuals to navigate pain flares with resilience.
Deep dives
Understanding Pain Flare Triggers
Identifying the triggers of pain or symptom flares is a crucial first step in addressing them effectively. Common triggers include conditioned responses, emotional dysregulation, or external factors indicative of being outside the healing window. For instance, the speaker recounts a personal experience where anxiety related to traveling triggered a pain flare, emphasizing how past experiences can contribute to current symptoms. By recognizing the reasons behind these flares, individuals can better prepare themselves to manage their pain in similar situations.
The Importance of Noticing and Naming
The next step involves noticing and naming the various factors that accompany a pain flare. This includes being aware of one's nervous system state, emotions, and thoughts that might contribute to increasing pain sensations. The speaker shares an example where they felt relief upon recognizing the stress caused by a family visit, highlighting how awareness can inform decision-making in tough situations. This step encourages individuals not to fixate solely on pain, but instead to understand the broader context of their symptoms.
Shifting to Safety for Pain Management
Shifting to safety is the final step in managing pain or symptom flares effectively. This involves employing various strategies such as engaging in calming activities, reminding oneself of the temporary nature of flares, and utilizing safety signals like spending time in nature or practicing mindful breathing. The podcast emphasizes that strategic avoidance during a flare is acceptable and should be guilt-free, providing individuals with the space to recover. Collectively, these strategies aim to signal safety to the nervous system, promoting healing and resilience in the face of pain.
What happens when pain/symptoms flare up unexpectedly during your healing journey? Join us as Tanner shares a personal story about experiencing a sudden pain flare during a trip to Ontario, despite being well into his recovery. This episode unpacks why such flares happen, touching on conditioned responses, stress, and the importance of recognizing triggers. Tanner’s narrative is both relatable and illuminating, making it easier to understand the complexities behind pain flares.
We then guide you through a three-step process to manage these flares effectively. You'll learn how to identify the root cause without getting bogged down in over-analysis, recognize the contributing factors like nervous system state and emotions, and importantly, shift back to safety signals to reassure your nervous system. Real-life examples make these strategies accessible and actionable, empowering you with practical tools to navigate your own healing journey with confidence. Tune in for valuable insights and actionable advice on handling pain flares with poise and resilience.
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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