If you suffer from chronic pain, you will know the frustration that can occur on a daily basis. For some patients, chronic pain can arouse even stronger emotional reactions such as anxiety and fear. According to our leading chiropractor in Southend, chronic pain is highly influenced by the way in which an individual’s brain processes pain signals. This means that to a certain extent, the brain has the ability to manage and even decrease pain through breathing, focusing and imagery techniques, which can be used alongside chiropractic and other treatments.
Our award winning Southend chiropractor highlights some effective ways to train your brain to manage your pain:
1: The Breathing and Relaxation Technique
- Make sure you are completely comfortable and relaxed in a place where you know you won’t be disturbed. Ideally, place yourself in a reclining position in a dark room. Either close your eyes or focus on a single point only.
- Slow down your breathing by inhaling deeply and slowly through your nose while counting to ten. Then purse your lips and breathe out slowly through your mouth. Again, count to ten.
2: The Altered Focus Technique
Whilst in the relaxed position and breathing as mentioned in the point above, try to focus your attention on a specific part of your body that doesn’t cause you any pain. Then imagine altering the sensation in that area. If you’re focusing on your hand, for example, imagine it becoming warmer and warmer. This powerful technique will help take your mind away from the source of pain.
3: The Transfer of Sensation Technique
If you can use your mind to create sensations in a non-painful part of the body, then you can try transferring that sensation to the source of pain. For example, you can use your mind to create pleasant sensations in a non-painful hand, then place that hand on the source of pain. As you do so, imagine transferring the pleasant sensation onto the area that’s causing you pain.
4: The Pain Movement Technique
Use your mind to imagine moving your pain from one area of your body to a place where you think you would be better able to cope with it. If you’re suffering from chronic back pain, for example, “move” the pain to your foot, hand, or even out of your body and into the air. Some people are better able to cope with pain in certain parts of their body than others, so imagine a pain transfer that’s right for you.
There are ways to manage your chronic pain, so don’t suffer in silence.
To book an appointment with our dedicated team of chiropractors, contact Cliffs Chiropractor in Southend on 01702 430430.