Patient Teaching Tools

Pain and the Brain

There is a neurological gate in the spinal cord through which pain travels from the body to the brain. This gate can be opened or closed by signals from the brain. Some positive signals from the brain that close the gate are physical activity and distraction by positive emotions. Some negative signals that open the gate are depression and catastrophic thoughts.

The Goal of Pain Management

Patients with chronic pain may feel that pain controls them (i.e., “Your pain has you.”). The goal of chronic pain treatment is to change this perception (i.e.,“You have your pain.”) Remember, the main goal is to REDUCE PAIN INTERFERENCE, not to eliminate pain.

Now – Your pain has you. Soon – You have your pain.