Chronic pain costs people their quality of life. This could be due as much to injury or disease as it is too stressful situations like the loss relationships, employment or functionality which lead to addictions, anxiety, depression and even suicide. The first-line treatment with mind and body methods was recommended by the Surgeon General in 2018. 

Painkiller use is found to increase the need for stronger, more frequent dosing over time which leads to heightened levels of pain less responsive to painkillers. Studies that compare patients on medications to those receiving mind-body approaches conclude these latter interventions are more effective for chronic pain than medications long-term.   

Pain is a complex physical and psychosocial occurrence triggered by imbalances in the nervous system, muscles and fascia, dietary regimens, social and environmental conditions, sleep patterns, aggravating injuries and stress, and psychological responses. If complex pain triggers are masked or ignored, the pain symptoms grow in duration and intensity. 

Yoga Therapy improves both physical and psychological resiliency, making it protective against pain and disability for all ages, especially acute recurring pain conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, multiple sclerosis, lower back or joint pain, and depression. A study in the 2007 Annals of Surgery reported fear at the time of a traumatic surgery or motor vehicle accident to be the strongest predictor for pain afterwards, and the ability to remain optimistic and calm under stress to be the most useful in chronic recurring pain prevention.    

Medications have their benefit, but non-pharma therapies are evidenced to be more effective and safer. Sarasota’s Empowered 2 Wellness Yoga Therapy offers individualized programs and self-care skills for balancing body and mind to relieve chronic pain and suffering. There is no charge for consultation.   

For more information, call 941-316-6893.