Many Americans struggle with body aches and discomfort on a daily basis, where pain asserts itself while one lies in bed or performs normal activities. In the ongoing pursuit of relief, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) emerges as a promising pain management method.
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| Image source: medicalnewstoday.com |
Psychiatrist Aaron Beck pioneered one form of talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, in the 1960s. It helps patients identify and develop abilities to change their negative thoughts and behaviors.
The assumption is that individuals, not external events and factors, create their experiences and pain. Changing these negative thoughts and actions is believed to transform pain awareness and, in turn, lead to better coping skills amid experiencing the same level of pain.
How can CBT help relieve pain? First, it changes one’s perception of pain, changing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors relating to it and putting the experience in a better context. It can also alter the brain’s physical responses, reducing the effects of pain-induced stress on pain-control chemicals such as norepinephrine and serotonin.
Often a combination of psychotherapy and behavioral training, CBT is also typically used together with other pain management techniques. These include medication, weight loss, physical therapy, massage, and surgery in extreme cases.
If one is eyeing CBT for pain relief or management, it is important to discuss the strategy with their doctor, who may recommend a chronic pain specialist. Most sessions are made up of 45-minute to two-hour weekly sessions, done in groups or with individuals. This increasingly popular method, too, is usually covered by health insurance.
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| Image source: medicalnewstoday.com |
Pain management expert Dr. Melanie Novak, M.D. , uses a multidisciplinary approach in treating chronic pain, combining injection treatments, medications, and physical and behavior therapy. Visit this page for similar reads.
