Research shows that about 20% of all Americans experience chronic pain. And yet, we’re largely in the dark about how to talk about, treat, and show compassion for those experiencing these difficulties. Myths about chronic pain can perpetuate internal suffering and societal stigma. And because it’s an invisible symptom, people often don’t know how to talk about what they’re feeling- both physically and emotionally.
Myth: Chronic Pain Inherently Requires Pain Medication
Chronic pain treatment is complex, and it’s important to work with providers who deeply care about your body and preferences. Some people find they need pain medications to experience relief. Others are interested in exploring non-pharmacological interventions or other alternative treatments.
You may even change your mind over time and want to experiment with various options based on your symptoms. With that said, there’s no best treatment. It’s also important to avoid assuming that, just because something does or doesn’t work for you, doesn’t mean it will have the same effect for someone else.
In recent years, there has been significant backlash against opioid medications. This backlash, in many ways, is warranted, as opioid addiction is a serious concern responsible for countless overdoses and premature deaths. With that, it’s important to be mindful of potentially shaming or ostracizing people for how they try to manage their pain. Furthermore, taking prescribed opioids does not inherently translate to forming a dependence.
Myth: If Someone Looks Fine, The Pain Must Not Be That Bad
Chronic pain is often invisible, and you can’t inherently tell if someone is struggling just by looking at them. With that said, many people learn to hide or downplay their pain to get through the day. We live in a culture that isn’t very supportive of chronic health conditions, so people often try to blend in as best they can.
Unfortunately, this prevailing myth hurts everyone. If you’re in pain, you may not feel like your issues are as “valid” as those with visible pain or injuries. Likewise, others may not really understand how much you’re struggling. This can cause a profound disconnect within your relationships.
Myth: If You Can’t Find the Cause of Your Pain, It Must Be In Your Head
This myth assumes that pain without a specific diagnosis must either be imagined, psychological, or otherwise inferior to pain that accompanies a particular health condition. This misconception represents a longstanding belief that symptoms without obvious physical explanations must be “in the head.”
But this, of course, isn’t true. Pain is a complex phenomenon with multifaceted causes, including acute injuries, neurological problems, inflammation, stress, stored trauma, and more. Medical tests may not always be able to provide concrete answers. However, that doesn’t make the pain any less real or significant.
Myth: Chronic Pain Is a Physical Problem
Chronic pain physically affects the body, but it equally affects someone’s mental and emotional state. Because the mind and body are inherently connected, symptoms that somatically affect you also psychologically affect you (and vice versa). Subsequently, research shows that people who experience chronic pain are more likely to have sleep disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health issues.
Chronic pain also affects other parts of life. For example, you may not be as present in your relationships as you’d like because you’re more fatigued than usual. Your finances can certainly be affected due to the co-pays, medications, and doctor appointments.
Myth: Chronic Pain Is An Inevitable Part of Getting Older
The body undoubtedly changes through the lifespan. Aging comes with the risk of weakening bones, a loss of muscle mass, diminished elasticity, and potential nerve damage. It’s also normal to feel some stiffness and soreness as you get older.
However, it’s a misconception that age simply corresponds with experiencing physical pain. If you’re experiencing significant discomfort or having pain that is interfering with your quality of life, it’s time to check in with your healthcare provider. Pain can signal underlying conditions that may be assessed through medical tests. And even if that’s not the case, getting appropriate screenings can be an important part of your
Myth: You Should Always Rest When You’re Experiencing Pain
One of the most prevailing myths about chronic pain is that you can’t move your body. Of course, you should always consult with your doctor about when to discern the need for rest. With that in mind, many pain specialists do recommend physical therapy as part of a comprehensive pain management approach. Similarly, based on your physical health, exercise can be an important part of diminishing certain types of back pain or nerve pain.
Many people find it beneficial to build a relationship with joyful movement. Joyful movement is a literal term that refers to engaging in physical activity that feels good for your body. You may need to experiment with different types of exercise to find what your body responds best to.
Myth: Pain Treatment Requires Intense Physical Intervention
Emerging research shows that conventional methods of treating pain aggressively may not be the most effective solution. In fact, Tor Wager, a professor in neuroscience recently went on record stating, ‘That fear and avoidance of pain, and the hypervigilance that goes along with it, actually ends up being a root cause of persistent pain.’
Although a physical injury may initially trigger pain, the residual effects may have more to do with how the brain circuits interpret certain bodily sensations. Therefore, working through these perceptions psychologically (leading to more positive attitude shifts) may even be more beneficial than physically trying to target the pain. In therapy, we can achieve this through deepening your somatic awareness and integrating new ways to react to your bodily sensations.
Myth: People With Pain Need Advice and Suggestions
In most cases, people with chronic pain have tried many, many strategies to make themselves feel better. This is why the common question, “Have you tried ___?” can feel so triggering.
If you have a loved one who experiences pain, try to be mindful of jumping to solutions. Instead, genuinely show your support and ask how you can be there for them. Remember that people living with pain may already feel guilty (and worry about being a burden)- try to avoid adding to this complex phenomenon.
Unfortunately, many people with chronic pain learn to avoid talking about their feelings. They don’t want to bother others or come across as weak. But everyone deserves space to be themselves and receive genuine support. If you can be that person for someone else, your effort can make a tremendous difference.
Therapy for Chronic Pain and Other Health-Related Concerns
Unfortunately, myths about chronic pain tend to be pervasive. That said, the mind and body are unquestionably connected, and it is possible to explore your pain perception to feel better in daily life. While therapy may not reduce pain automatically, we can practice new ways to cope with stress, listen to your body, and be attuned to what you need.
In my therapy practice, I embrace a multifaceted approach that often entails somatic work, parts work, relaxation techniques, EMDR, and deeper self-acceptance. I also treat the interplay that often comes with chronic pain and other mental health conditions, like depression, complex trauma, anxiety, or other body-related concerns.
If you are struggling, you deserve support and grace. I would be honored to help you during this time. Please contact me today to schedule an initial consultation.
