The Hidden Psychology Of Pain

Chronic pain has been correctly described as the invisible crisis at the heart of contemporary life. Despite stunning advances in other areas of medical science, no similar breakthrough in the treatment of chronic pain has resulted from an exclusive focus on the body. Dr James Alexander's young life was redefined by a tragic car accident in his late teens, and the chronic physical and emotional trauma inspired him to become a psychologist. Now pain-free, Dr Alexander has dedicated the last three decades of his life to helping others overcome similar challenges, specializing in the treatment of chronic pain and psychological trauma. His success is proof that recovery from chronic pain is possible, and this guide offers a valuable resource for working toward that goal. The recovery from chronic pain requires that we revisit and challenge the outdated attitudes and practices that have been used with little result. With the proliferation of medical and psychological research, for the first time we are at a point in history where these notions of pain recovery can be validated by research-based evidence. For too long, Dr Alexander feels, we have been looking in all the wrong places. Specifically, the problem lies at the core of our culture, which still treats the physical and nonphysical aspects of the human as separate experiences. This innovative program involves a journey of self-discovery, a new way to approach medical and psychological care of chronic pain, and advice on the most effective types of help to pursue.

This is an interdisciplinary review of current research relevant to the psychology of pain. Following consideration of the biological basis of pain and its measurement, the work considers the social and cognitive aspects of the subject.

This invaluable resource presents a state-of-the-art account of the psychology of pain from leading researchers. It features contributions from clinical, social, and biopsychological perspectives, the latest theories of pain, as well as basic processes and applied issues. The book opens with an introduction to the history of pain theory and the epidemiology of pain. It then explores theoretical work, including the gate control theory/neuromatrix model, as well as biopsychosocial, cognitive/behavioral, and psychodynamic perspectives. Issues, such as the link between psychophysiological processes and consciousness and the communication of pain are examined. Pain over the life span, ethno-cultural, and individual differences are the focus of the next three chapters. Pain: Psychological Perspectives addresses current clinical issues: * pain assessment and acute and chronic pain interventions; * the unavailability of psychological interventions for chronic pain in a number of settings, the use of self-report, and issues related to the implementation of certain biomedical interventions; and * the latest ethical standards and the theories. Intended for practitioners, researchers, and students involved with the study of pain in fields such as clinical and health psychology, this book will also appeal to physicians, nurses, and physiotherapists. Pain is ideal for advanced courses on the psychology of pain, pain management, and related courses that address this topic.

Chronic pain is the most common long-term health condition in the United States. For the nearly 100 million Americans who struggle with this burden, the substantial risks of prescription opioid treatment have left many searching for safer, more effective alternatives. While multidisciplinary pain treatment programs can help, they are few in number--and few mental health practitioners receive adequate training in pain treatment. This book provides a comprehensive overview of treating patients with chronic pain, using evidence-based therapies. Taking a multidisciplinary approach that includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and chronic pain self-management, Darnall shows mental health professionals how to utilize mindfulness interventions, hypnosis, and biofeedback, and also address comorbid problems such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Included are compelling case studies, and resources for clinical and patient training.

People who suffer from chronic pain are typically found to be more anxious and fearful of pain than those who do not. Recent evidence has shown that the fear itself serves as a mechanism through which chronic pain is maintained over time. Even once the muscle or tissue damage is healed, a fearof further pain can lead to avoidance behaviour, which over time, leads to deconditioning (e.g. decreased mobility, weight gain). This in turn leads to further pain experiences, negative expectancies, and strengthened avoidance. It is the reciprocal relationship between fear and avoidance that isthought to be responsible for maintaining pain behaviour and disability. With fear of pain known to cause significant suffering and functional disability, there is a need for a greater understanding of this condition. This is the first book to explore this topic. It starts by introducing the current theoretical positions regarding pain-related fear and anxiety alongwith relevant empirical findings. It then provides comprehensive coverage of assessment issues and treatment strategies. Finally, the book suggests further areas for investigation. Pain-related fear and anxiety are now receiving considerable attention, and efficient and effective treatments are fast becoming available. This book will help guide and extend our understanding of a condition that has been shown to be associated with substantial suffering and disability.

Given the heightened focus on the opioid crisis and its intersection with adequate chronic pain management, there is an impetus to shift patient care toward self-management and comprehensive interdisciplinary modalities. However, despite the evidence base for efficacy, pain psychology remains largely relegated to the complementary and alternative medicine designations and medical providers struggle to search for trained pain psychologists in their community. This unique book makes core psychological techniques accessible to medical providers and allied health professionals who are on the front lines of routine communication with patients living with chronic pain. Practical suggestions and vignettes demonstrate how to briefly and effectively incorporate key concepts from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and other orientations into any health care setting.