September is Pain Awareness Month
September is Pain Awareness Month. The purpose of which is to educate the public on the reality of acute and chronic pain, campaign for better funding and medical care, as well as sharing patient stories to reduce isolation.
Acute pain is vital to our survival, for example when we break a bone and tells us we need treatment. Whilst chronic pain last more than 12 weeks, after an illness or injury is healed and is linked to the nervous system being over sensitive and continuing to send pain signals to the brain. Chronic pain can also be linked to conditions such as arthritis and diabetes. Over time, chronic pain can have a very negative impact on quality life affecting; relationships, employment, sleeping patterns and energy levels.
According to the Scottish Health Survey in 2022, more than a third of adults in Scotland suffer with chronic pain. This would equate to more than 1.5 million adults. In many instances, people turn to painkillers to manage chronic pain. However, there are also concerns about the long-term use of painkillers, including; upset stomachs, ulcers, liver and kidney damage, dependency and addiction.
Hypnotherapy is a complementary therapy which is related to narrowed focus, deep relaxation and increased suggestibility. The benefit of hypnotherapy is that it taps into the unconscious mind to reduce the brain’s response to pain signals. Though it should be noted that hypnotherapy is not recommended for people with a history of psychosis or epilepsy.
There is good evidence of the effectiveness of hypnotherapy for the management of chronic pain. One article reviewed thirteen studies which examined the use of hypnotherapy for a variety of chronic pain problems. The findings of these studies indicate that hypnotherapy interventions consistently reduce pain associated with these chronic pain problems[i].
If you are experiencing pain, it is important that you consult with a qualified medical practitioner. Likewise, it is important to discuss painkiller use with a qualified medical practitioner. If, you are looking for an Edinburgh Hypnotherapist to help manage chronic pain, please get in touch.
Stephen McMurray is a Clinical Hypnotherapist based in Edinburgh.
