Persistent pain alters how one looks at the world. It drains the spirit and limits the ability to enjoy life to the fullest.
But people need not give in to pain. The Baylor Center for Pain Management has helped hundreds of people conquer their discomfort and reclaim their lives.
“Pain, over time, robs people of their sense of control,” says Timothy Clark, PhD, neuropsychologist and program director of interdisciplinary services at Baylor’s pain center. “If people can increase their control in the situation, they can improve their quality of life. They can become active, enjoy things, resume relationships and regain a sense of hope again.”
More than a quarter of all Americans age 20 and older, an estimated 76.5 million people, report having experienced pain that endured for more than 24 hours, according to a 2006 National Center for Health Statistics report.
Chronic pain may begin with an acute injury, but the pain continues long after initial healing. Patients come to the center after years of enduring low back pain, neck pain, headaches, nerve pain or other discomfort. During that time, they often become less active and more isolated. Depression and anxiety also may affect them. Clark suggests asking a primary care physician for a referral when pain has lasted more than six months and begins interfering with daily activities.
“If you can catch it early on, you can help avoid it getting worse,” he says. “Scientific research shows that comprehensive pain programs are the most effective way to intervene and get people back on track.”
Baylor’s comprehensive outpatient approach to managing pain matches the level of treatment with the need of the person in pain.
Biofeedback sessions at Baylor, such as the one depicted above, help patients manage pain and stress.
Patients learn proper techniques for stretching and strengthening their muscles, and how to use mind/body methods, such as biofeedback, to deal with pain-associated stress. They also receive suggestions for managing daily activities.
“The core of the program is giving people the skills and training they need to bring their pain under better control and to become more active again,” Clark says. “They learn techniques to settle down pain flare-ups.”
The Baylor Center for Pain Management has improved the quality of life for many patients. Many report greater pain control while taking less medication. Patients also suffer less depression, according to Clark.
“Patients are often surprised by the changes they make within one month’s time,” Clark says. “Patients reported feeling happier, stronger and in more control. A study one year later found they still had less pain, were more active, were happier, and needed less pain medicine and medical help.” : :