Unveiling The Complexities of Chronic and Complex Pain
Understanding the complexities of chronic and complex pain, in relation to trauma, is a critical step towards finding solutions and lasting relief. Our goal is to empower you with the tools and therapies necessary to address both the physical and emotional aspects of chronic pain, so you can embark on a journey towards healing and a better quality of life.
What is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is generally defined as persistent pain that lasts for more than three months. It takes on different forms, sometimes overlapping, such as back pain, migraines, fibromyalgia, or rheumatoid arthritis. Chronic pain affects every part of a person’s life. Often, its relationships that suffer the most as loved ones struggle to understand why their partner cannot do the things they once did.
The Complex Relationship Between Pain and Trauma
Trauma, on the other hand, can encompass a wide range of experiences, from physical abuse, sexual abuse and emotional abuse to accidents, war, or natural disasters. While trauma itself can lead to physical injuries that cause chronic pain, the connection goes even deeper.
Trauma, especially when experienced in childhood, can reshape the brain's response to pain and stress. This alteration often results in heightened sensitivity to pain, making it more challenging for trauma survivors to cope with chronic pain conditions.
Trauma and Chronic Pain
Trauma can profoundly affect one's psychological well-being. It can lead to conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and dissociation, which further exacerbate the experience of chronic pain. These psychological factors not only intensify the pain but can also make it harder to manage through conventional treatments.
Trauma can also disrupt the body's stress response system. The constant state of alertness and hypervigilance that trauma survivors often experience can increase inflammation, aggravating pain conditions. Moreover, chronic pain itself can act as a constant source of stress, creating a vicious cycle that further intensifies both the pain and the trauma.
Our Holistic Approach to Pain Management
At Innova, we provide a holistic approach to pain management, which includes use of Alpha Stim, Vibroacoustic Therapy, trauma-based yoga and meditation. We also address the underlying symptoms of the trauma that go hand in hand with chronic pain in order to reduce stress and anxiety in the body. Contact us today to learn more!