Psychological pain therapy | Pain therapy

Psychological pain therapy

Psychotherapy and behavioral therapy play an important role in the treatment of chronic pain. Psychological patterns contribute significantly to the chronification of pain, creating a vicious circle from which it is difficult to break out. In principle, pain is always evaluated emotionally in the brain.

This happens in the limbic system, a special part of the brain. It is there that it is decided whether the patient has positive coping strategies in dealing with his pain or whether he reacts to his pain in a rather pessimistic, depressive or aggressive way. The patient’s attitude towards his pain therefore plays a major role.

Psychological fixation on the pain and depressive mood contribute to the fact that the pain is perceived more strongly and disappears more slowly or not at all. In addition, fear of renewed or increased pain often develops, which leads to avoidance behavior and unconscious muscle tension. This leads to cramps and poor posture, which promotes the development of new and worsening of existing pain.

It is therefore important, especially in the case of chronic pain, to take countermeasures early on by showing the patient pain-relieving behavior. This includes relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, autogenic training or hypnosis. In progressive muscle relaxation, the various muscle parts of the body are consciously tensed one after the other and then consciously relaxed again.

This should lead to the patient having a better body perception and being able to relax actively. Hardenings and tensions in the muscles can thus be permanently released, reducing pain. This procedure is also suitable for stress reduction and has a positive influence especially on back pain.

You can find detailed information on this topic at Progressive muscle relaxationAutogenous training also serves to improve body perception. The patient learns to influence himself and his perception, which should lead to a general relaxation. As with progressive muscle relaxation, tensions in the musculoskeletal system can be relieved, but the function of organ systems can also be influenced.