Pain reprocessing therapy is a form of pain recovery that aims to reduce symptoms by changing the perception of how the brain processes pain signals. It typically involves gentle exposure to the physical sensations associated with the experience of pain, leading to a reduction in pain and suffering. This type of therapy may be used with other pain management strategies, such as medication and physical therapy, to provide a comprehensive approach to treating chronic pain.
The therapy involves a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and pain desensitization practices. PRT is based on the idea that chronic pain is often associated with adverse life experiences, which can create physical and emotional tension that contributes to pain and other physical symptoms. Patients learn about the role of emotional stress, fear, and negative behaviors that can contribute to pain symptoms. Some of the mindfulness techniques are “somatic tracking and leaning into positive sensations”. The therapy also involves goal-setting and problem-solving techniques to help patients overcome barriers to recovery.
During PRT, the therapist or coach works with the patient to help them identify the emotional and psychological triggers contributing to their pain. The patient is then taught mindfulness techniques and other coping strategies to help manage their symptoms. Overall, PRT helps individuals develop adaptive coping strategies and reduce the impact of psychological factors on physical symptoms. PRT has been shown to be effective for a range of chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia, chronic back pain, pelvic pain, and complex regional pain syndrome.