Download Persistent Pain Management

Persistent Pain Management
(Neuroplasticity Summary)
The brain learns pain. Nine areas in the brain
perceive pain. When there are continuous pain
signals going to the brain, there is an increase in
wiring to these areas and thus, we lose wiring for
other cognitive functions.
Neuroplasticity is based on three principles: 1) what
gets fired, gets wired; 2) use it or lose it; and 3)
when you make good connections, you break the
negative connections.
We work to oppose pain with brain-body based
techniques, which do not necessarily distract from
the brain-body connection, but counter-stimulate it.
Counter-stimulation techniques:
1. Scent and soothing emotions
a. Scent
i. Peppermint blocks substance P (main pain
transmitter).
ii. Lemon soothes and reduces anxiety. Citrus
essential oils sooth.
iii. Peppermint + lemon = reduced pain
b. Soothing emotions
i. Breathing exercises
ii. Relaxation techniques, meditation, prayer
iii. Relaxing sounds
2. Sound and vibration
a. ‘Brain Music’, Tibetan bowl music, tuning
forks
b. Physiological Quieting CDs
3. Memory and images
a. Scents, photos, food, music, movies, artwork;
surround yourself with positive things.
b. Share good memories. Laugh and smile
frequently.
c. Recall important memories when not in pain.
Do so without regret and bitterness, but with
joy, hope, and comfort.
d. Use imagery to turn off pain areas whenever
pain spikes.
4. Soothing touch
a. Skin is the largest sensory organ; it protects
and connects.
b. ‘‘Shrink the pain maps’’ by repeatedly sensing
positive association as one touches materials
with different textures, shapes and sizes.
c. Pet therapy
5. Pleasure
a. Keep in mind pain is the absence of pleasure
= pleasure is the absence of pain.
b. Start a gratitude journal and activities.
c. Go on a ‘‘pleasure hunt’’------notice those
things that bring you pleasure.
d. Carry a ‘‘pleasure pack’’ that contains things
that brighten your day.
6. Movement
a. Movement connects the brain and body
which maintains proprioception as well as
function
b. walking/cardio program
c. strengthening and flexibility training
d. yoga/pilates/group classes
e. aquatic therapy
For more information, visit www.neuroplastix.com.
lvd, Suite 4350 :: Bozeman, MT 59715 :: 406-414-1002
Rehabilitation Services | 905 Highland Blvd, Suite 4350 | Bozeman, MT 59715 | 406-414-1002