The Psychology of Pain

Posted on

Jul 01, 2021

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Pain is one of the leading reasons people seek medical care. Approximately 50 million adults experience chronic pain. More adults suffer from chronic pain conditions than the number affected by heart disease, diabetes, and cancer combined (Tsang et al., 2008). Chronic pain contributes to an estimated $560 billion yearly in direct medical costs, lost productivity, and disability programs (Institute of Pain Medicine, 2011). Because of this impact, it is imperative that we understand the complexities of living with and treating chronic pain. Chronic pain affects all aspects of life.
Medical treatments, including medication, surgery, rehabilitation and physical therapy, may be the first line of defense in treating chronic pain. However, psychotherapy can also be effective at relieving chronic pain because it can alter how the brain processes pain sensations. Understanding and managing the thoughts, emotions and behaviors that accompany the discomfort can help people cope more effectively with painand can actually reduce the intensity of pain.

Get a Therapist- He/She can help you navigate chronic pain and teach you management techniques.
Manage Stress- Stress makes pain worse, stress management techniques will help you cope.
Focused Breathing- Relaxes tensions in the body reducing pain.
Stay active- Pain and the fear of pain can lead you to stop doing the things you enjoy -causing more pain.


Biofeedback- Teaches you how to control normally unconscious bodily functions including pain.
Hypnosis or Guided Imagery- Directs your thoughts by focusing on specific images other than pain.


Music Therapy- Performing or listening to music can help with pain by creating relaxation and producing endorphins.
Know your limits- Be active in a way that acknowledges your physical limitations, dont push yourself to do more than you can.
Low-Impact Exercise- Stretching, yoga, walking and swimming can increase endorphins to combat pain.
Be social- People with social support are more resilient and experience less depression and anxiety.
Have a pain plan. Learn what affects the intensity and duration of your pain, and what helps to make it better.
Manage Expectations. Avoid all or nothing thinking. Seek help to learn coping skills to manage pain.

You are not in this alone. Let us connect you with a counselor who can help you navigate pain or any other issue you need.
This article was submitted by Dr. Mary-Catherine Segota, Dr Segota is a Psychologist with Counseling Resource Services Inc. She can be reached at 407-654-4433 or at www.counselingresourceservices.com

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Communication Difficulties: Some patients experience soft speech (hypophonia) or facial masking, making it difficult to express needs clearly to hospital staff unfamiliar with Parkinsons care. Being aware of these risks allows families to take a proactive role during the hospital stay, minimizing complications and ensuring the best possible outcome.Preparing for a Hospital Stay: Advocacy and PlanningIf hospitalization is scheduled (for surgery or planned treatments), preparation can make a significant difference:1. Create a Hospital Parkinsons PlanPrepare a simple one-page document outlining your loved ones: Current medications and exact times for administration Mobility limitations and fall risk status Communication needs Cognitive changes or dementia symptoms Preferences for therapy, rehabilitation, and home care after discharge Provide this information to the hospital staff immediately upon admission.2. Bring Medications to the HospitalBring a full list and ideally the actual medications in their original containers. In some hospitals, families can administer Parkinsons medications if theres a risk of delays.3. Assign an AdvocateDesignate a family member or professional caregiver to be present as much as possible, especially during medication times, shift changes, and physician rounds. Having a consistent advocate can prevent critical mistakes and advocate for the patients specialized needs.The Importance of Medication TimingOne of the biggest risks for Parkinsons patients in the hospital is missed or mistimed medications. Parkinsons medications like carbidopa-levodopa must be administered exactly as prescribed, sometimes multiple times a day, to prevent a sudden worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms.Tips for ensuring proper medication administration: Clearly document the medication schedule and insist it be incorporated into the hospitals care orders. 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Guest Blog: Getting Outside Gets Inside

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