Legacy Pain Management Center
Behavioral Medicine
- We used to think that when we feel pain, it's because our body sends a message to our brain saying something is hurting.
- But now, pain scientists have found out that it's not exactly like that. It turns out that it is actually our brain that's in charge of making us feel pain, by interpreting signals from our body.
- This does not mean you are “making up pain in your head.” Your pain is very real and physical. It just means that as humans, our brains are completely connected when it comes to feeling pain. We cannot separate these co-conspirators; both are needed to produce and feel pain.
- Science has now taught us that our brains have specialized areas that can increase or decrease pain sensitivity. Because of this connection, we can train the brain and body to work together to quiet down and feel less pain. This is an incredible discovery that has changed how we treat pain.
- Research shows that just using medicine, injections, or surgeries might not be enough to make pain better in the long-term. There are many things going on in the brain and body with chronic pain that differ from new injury or pain. With chronic pain, we need more tools to help. Taking care of the brain and nervous system is an important part of this. The good news is that when we use mind-body tools, along with treatments like medicines and physical therapy, people make much better progress over the long haul.
- There are special mind-body exercises that can help you feel better when you’re in pain. Our behavioral health team can help you find a few that work best for you, along with some other useful tools:
- How to relate to your body and pain with less fear or stress
- Ways to help you get better sleep
- Skills to help you feel more confident, flexible, and more able do things you enjoy
- Ways to take care of yourself when your pain flares
- Learning how to speak up for yourself effectively with your healthcare providers
