Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/76514
Chronic Pain and the Mental Connection By Camille Albert What is chronic pain? Think of pain, and you think of a physical sensation. But it's actually a complex feel- ing completely connected with the brain. "The International Association for the Study of Pain has defined pain as an un- pleasant sensory and emotional experience with actual or potential tissue damage," Byfield explains. "It's sensory and it's emotional together." To feel pain, a danger signal is sent to the brain, then our thoughts, feelings and reactions, as well as our behav- ior, culminate in a response. Hence, our emotions and pain are inseparable. In the case of chronic pain, these pain responses last for more than three to six months. Why does the mind-body connection matter? Any sufferer of chronic pain knows that keeping happy in the face of it all can be a struggle. But finding a healthy mindset is essential, say the experts, and it's not only for your daily outlook. The brain uses various resources to determine how big of a threat pain is to the body. One of those resources? Our thoughts and emotions. "It doesn't become pain until it reaches the brain," Byfield shares. To gain a sense of control over your condition, staying posi- tive and taking the necessary steps to care for yourself often results in less pain and a better mindset. What eases the pain? The first way to make life with chronic pain more bearable? Get to know your body to learn what helps or hurts the pain. Al- though everyone reacts to pain differently, Byfield and Snow suggest a combination of treatments such as acupuncture and hyp- nosis, going to support groups, and being mindful of your body. They also advise finding a physician who listens and offers solutions to your condition. While treat- ments will be determined by you and your doctor, learning healthy ways to control your relaxation response is key along with a healthy lifestyle that includes plenty of sleep, nutrients and physical activity. When it comes to solving the puzzle of chronic pain, the solutions are not all physical say Meriter experts Dr. Joanne Snow, a physician specializing in rehabilitation medicine, and Dr. M. Gretchen Byfield, a rehabilitation psychologist. To ease your pain, they help strengthen mind-body connection What's your favorite way to update your fall wardrobe? Shop local boutiques for new clothing styles Find one-of-a-kind looks at area vintage stores No time to shop! I love ordering online Accessories - new shoes, seasonal jewelry and/or handbags I'll be finding new ways to wear what's already in my closet YOUR OPINION Find out how other BRAVA readers are updating their wardrobes in next month's issue. www.ChamberlainResearch.com August 2012 Record your answer online at: https://bit.ly/bravamag Conveniently located at City Center West 515 Junction Road, Suite 2000 Madison WI, 53717 Phone: (608) 829-0101 www.dentistrywest.com Delta Dental Premiere provider bravamagazine.com 13 "Where gentle hands provide the right care for you"