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← Return to Pain and Loss of Self Worth
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This podcast was enlightening and thought-provoking. however, I'm skeptical as to what degree behavioral therapy can truly reduce pain. Can it take you from a pain score of 8 to a pain scale of 2? Can it truly significantly reduce the chronic stabbing back pain and burning of neuropathy that accompanies a spinal injury?
Are there patient testimonials that can be shared?
Orthopedic surgeons strongly recommended back surgery for me and I went forward with it. When the pain only worsened afterwards, they recommended a spinal cord stimulator implant. I agreed to go forward with it. That didn't help either.
I'm at the point where I think the best thing I can do now is to accept the fact that I have a chronic condition and do what I know gives me some relief.
I'm worn out from seeking solutions that, in the end, have not helped.
Your comments would be appreciated~
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@labgirl, Unfortunately, I can't determine what number of pain you may or may not have as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is only one tool of the management equation. Mayo PRC teaches to omit pain behaviors (as Dr. Sletten talks about in the video) which is anything you do, say or think that reminds you of pain. Reason being is that pain behaviors access pain pathways in the brain and promote more pain. Calming and quieting those pathways may aid in the reduction of pain.
Pain is the main symptom, yes, but how do thoughts, behaviors, physical fitness, nutrition, lifestyle, socializing, giving back, etc... play a combined role in management of pain? As you speak of your failed attempts at finding relief or a fix, knowing that it's typically followed by let down which causes more upheaval of physical and emotional distress, it becomes this cycle of pain that is difficult to get out of.
I really do hear you and wish I had a perfect simple answer but the truth is is that when pain goes from acute to chronic, finding an overall strategy of stress-relief, coping and acceptance is a good place to start and that's where behavioral therapy plays a role. I'm happy that you mention acceptance. Only you know if you are ready to find or work on acceptance. It doesn't happen overnight, but bringing it up is commendable and a good place to start. Have you considered ways to help yourself get there? Might you consider adding CBT to your strategy of acceptance?