When first introduced into the medical world, pain was frequently ignored and seen as purely a psychological condition that was manifested in a person’s head. Since then, scientists and physicians learned the interdependencies between the brain, nervous system, and the body. Doctors have refined their practices to offer effective treatments to reduce pain and target psychological conditions associated with their pain. People with multiple conditions, such as anxiety and depression, often feel hypersensitive and need treatment that targets all aspects of their mental health.
In some cases, pain is actually caused by anxiety and vise versa. A Harvard Medical School study reported an undeniable connection between anxiety disorder, depression, and chronic pain. Their findings uncovered the severity of these patients’ pain and reveal therapies that can help relieve symptoms.
At Southwest Spine and Pain Center, pain conditions are treated with psychological symptoms in mind. The medical team encourages their patients to make positive lifestyle changes to treat pain, anxiety, and depression. Physical activity, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep make for the perfect combination of good health.
One of the interesting aspects about anxiety is that it can produce all kinds of physical symptoms. The most common types of pain associated with anxiety include:
- Muscle pain
- Chest pain
- Headaches
- Joint pain
- Stomach pain
- Back pain
- Shoulder pain
Chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, and nerve pain are seen to produce longer-lasting pain when coupled with anxiety and depression.
There are ways to overcome pain without surgical intervention. Talking with your doctor is the first step. Learn about the condition and follow the recommendations given from your doctor. Muscle pain can be reduced through stretches, massages, light exercise, and over the counter pain medication.
Treating anxiety and depression associated with pain can also be helped. One of the most effective treatments is psychotherapy. Some examples are:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy- uses coping skills to replace negative beliefs and thoughts with positive, more realistic ones.
- Relaxation techniques- yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness
- Hypnosis- with either a therapist or through self-hypnosis
Southwest Spine and Pain Center focuses of presenting a positive and comfortable environment for all of our patients. If you or someone you know suffers from pain associated with anxiety, depression, or any other psychological disorder, be sure to report every symptom with your physician.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
©Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 2013
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