30-Second Blog Snapshot:
- Hanna Somatic Education (HSE), also called Hanna Somatics, is a type of mind-body training that encourages physical and mental control over muscles to reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain.
- In layman’s terms, this technique teaches the brain to re-learn certain muscle movements to relieve muscle tension.
- The pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center explain what Hanna Somatic Education is, and how it may benefit patients with chronic pain.
What Is Hanna Somatic Education (Hanna Somatics)?
Hanna Somatics is a relatively new treatment technique that teaches chronic pain patients to regain complete awareness of their muscle movements and sensations to effectively reduce pain. According to the Association for Hanna Somatic Education, Inc., the process teaches the brain to relax and move muscles properly, thus improving muscle function and sensory awareness. This unique mind-body training was first developed by Thomas Hanna, Ph.D., and has since been refined by a number of Hanna Somatics educators.
How Does Hanna Somatics Work?
Chiropractic is a therapeutic specialty that requires the application of strategic, manual pressure to areas of the body to reduce tension, stress, or pain. Hanna Somatics, in some regards, is similar to chiropractic care, but it requires cognitive functioning instead of physical manipulations to relieve muscle tension and pain. Utilizing the brain and nervous system, a Hanna Somatics educator teaches patients to work within themselves to seek pain relief. Typically, an educator will coach patients through conscious muscle contractions, asking them to tense and release a series of key muscles causing pain. This process will continue until most of the body has been addressed.
Next Steps
If you’re interested in Hanna Somatics, talk to your Southwest Spine and Pain Center physician about similar techniques. Much of the therapy requires specialized contractions and a positive state of mind, which may be accomplished through alternative treatment options at the spine and pain center.
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With multiple locations across the state of Utah, 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.