User: Login or Register x @import url(http://www.google.com/cse/api/overlay.css);
Overview Getting Help Fast Facts Myths and Misconceptions ... Surgery Psychology of Pain Peer Review Committee Content Editor: Mark Disorbio, Ph.D.
Denver, Colo. Editorial Review Board: Daniel Bruns, Psy.D.
Greeley, Colo.;
Dan Doleys, Ph.D.
Pain and Rehabilitation Institute;
David Tollison, Ph.D.
Carolina Center for Pain, S.C. Arthritis in its many forms has become more prevalent in the United States as the post-World War II "Baby Boom" population ages. Primary care practitioners are reporting a higher incidence of patients complaining about the aches and pains associated with arthritis. As with other chronic pain conditions, painful arthritis attacks can prompt feelings of depression, sadness and loss. Often depression is heralded by other symptoms, such as increased fatigue, less energy, less interest in or enjoyment of activities, poor concentration, loss of appetite, worse sleep, and feelings of guilt or worthlessness. When these feelings or symptoms persist on a daily basis, the resulting depression may need to be treated with medications. Frustration and anger also are normal responses to any chronic pain condition, including arthritis. However, because the mind can influence the body (and vise versa), such negative emotions can further aggravate arthritis pain. Along with arthritis medication management and arthritis physical therapy, psychological pain management techniques that incorporate a "mind-body" connection can help break this vicious cycle. These include breathing exercises, self-hypnosis, various forms of biofeedback training and other alternative therapies. As an arthritis patient, it's important for you both physically and psychologically to become actively involved in your treatment. Developing a behavioral pain management program that works best for you can help you gain a sense of control over your arthritis pain. It's important to find a qualified health care provider who is knowledgeable about arthritis pain and muscular bracing, as well as the use of behavioral pain management techniques. | |
|
