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Derek S. Avoiding pain medication

Discussion in 'Ask a TMS Therapist' started by Nando Campana, Aug 18, 2016.

  1. This question was submitted via our Ask a TMS Therapist program. To submit your question, click here.

    Question
    Dear TMS forum.

    Q: How can I reduce pain levels without taking pain medication ( Tramadol ) when I have a pain flare up?

    My name is Nando Campana from Melbourne Australia it has taken awhile but I am now totally convinced that I have TMS. I hurt my lower back 6 yrs ago, a minor incident, I was seated in my car and turned to the left to get the road map and felt some pain. The strong initial pain went away but I was left with an ongoing pain which I still have today. I have seen lots of medical specialists and therapists and had all sorts of scans etc. There is very little they could find wrong with my back, only a little Right side L5 -S1 facet joint arthritis, other wise my spine very healthy. My pain moves around from my coccyx,sacrum, gluts, lower back, midback, lower ribs area etc.

    I have read and watched Dr Sarno's material and have started the 42 day TMS Structured Program which I am finding very helpful.

    Thanks for your help

    Nando
     
  2. Derek Sapico MFT

    Derek Sapico MFT TMS Therapist

    Answer
    Hi Nando.

    I wish that I had a secret method to this but I think this just comes down to making a firm decision. See if you can commit to reducing or eliminating your pain meds and focusing on changing your relationship with the pain.

    Don't let the pain keep you in a state of fear and worry. Try to challenge it and debunk it. If it no longer serves the purpose of scaring you and keeping you preoccupied, it no longer has a reason to exist.

    Work the SEP and build up your confidence. A lot TMS recovery is about having an attitude of empowerment. This has to be practiced so be patient with yourself.

    All the best.

    -Derek


    Any advice or information provided here does not and is not intended to be and should not be taken to constitute specific professional or psychological advice given to any group or individual. This general advice is provided with the guidance that any person who believes that they may be suffering from any medical, psychological, or mindbody condition should seek professional advice from a qualified, registered/licensed physician and/or psychotherapist who has the opportunity to meet with the patient, take a history, possibly examine the patient, review medical and/or mental health records, and provide specific advice and/or treatment based on their experience diagnosing and treating that condition or range of conditions. No general advice provided here should be taken to replace or in any way contradict advice provided by a qualified, registered/licensed physician and/or psychotherapist who has the opportunity to meet with the patient, take a history, possibly examine the patient, review medical and/or mental health records, and provide specific advice and/or treatment based on their experience diagnosing and treating that condition or range of conditions.

    The general advice and information provided in this format is for informational purposes only and cannot serve as a way to screen for, identify, or diagnose depression, anxiety, or other psychological conditions. If you feel you may be suffering from any of these conditions please contact a licensed mental health practitioner for an in-person consultation.

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