Can my brain interpretation of pain be modified?
Our mind modifies all the sensory input throughout the body and, as such, is an important arena for the treatment of various pain states. Mind calming has many approaches. The simplest of these treatments are relaxation techniques. Rates and depth of breathing can help reduce anxiety, often lessening pain along with it. Biofeedback helps many use their cognitive reasoning to find positions of relief and train their body in appropriate mechanics to avoid painful events. Several medicines target relaxation, stress relief, anxiety, sleep needs and depression, which are another form of brain modification as related to pain.
As always, careful guidance and physician oversite is advised. Finally, in regard to mental approaches to pain, there is a significant role for behavioral insights. Whether through a pain/behavior psychologist or psychiatrist, these techniques and medicines can have a profound positive impact, by identifying pain triggers or their resultant impact.