Pain is a complex phenomenon that has yet to be fully understood. In recent years, the Western medical community has grown to recognize the need to treat people’s pain, particularly their chronic pain, in a more effective manner. In the United States, the general mindset has been to perceive pain as bad. I believe, however, that pain is neither good nor bad, it is simply an alarm system indicating that some part of our body is out of balance. By saying this, I do not mean to invalidate anyone’s pain experience. My goal is to help people reduce, or eliminate, their pain by educating them about it and its overall effects.
Similar to the alarm systems in our homes and cars, pain is our body's way of alerting us that something is out of balance. Unfortunately, Western medicine has traditionally focused on treating specific symptoms rather than addressing the whole body. This approach was theorized by French philosopher Rene Descartes over 400 years ago, and it is still largely prevalent today. Unfortunately, this philosophy often prioritizes profit over health, and has led to a separation of the body, mind, and spirit.
Recent research has revealed the importance of a biopsychosocial approach to pain management. Instead of focusing solely on symptoms, this model acknowledges the whole person, including their biological, psychological, and social factors, when addressing pain. By engaging with the whole person, through addressing all of these aspects, we can bring chemical transmitters that travel to the brain back into balance, thereby decreasing a person's pain.
People experience pain differently, even if they have the same injury. This is due to a variety of factors, including individual life experiences, current environmental factors, and how an individual’s brain interprets the pain signal. It is therefore essential to take a holistic approach to pain management that considers the unique needs, and experiences, of each individual.
Current research has shown that when we experience pain, all body systems are affected. These systems include everything, from the integumentary, nervous, and skeletomuscular systems, to the lymphatic, respiratory, endocrine, and cardiovascular systems. Therefore, in order to effectively manage pain, it is essential to consider all of these systems in treating the whole person.
As a pain neuroscience educator, I take a holistic approach to pain management. I will take the time to listen to your story and share relevant experiences to help you understand why you are experiencing pain. Together, we will work towards finding solutions and developing a personalized treatment plan.
In working with me, I bring my experience of massage therapy, health coaching, somatic trauma recovery, and other healing modalities to support your recovery. I work with your permission. By collaborating together, considering your unique experiences and needs, we can build a path forward to help decrease your pain levels and improve overall well-being.
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