During a recent Ontario-wide educational session, leading pain expert Dr. Andrea Furlan provided valuable insights into the benefits of pain reprocessing therapy. Dr. Furlan, a renowned researcher and engaging educator known for her popular online videos for patients, is the author of 8 Steps to Conquer Chronic Pain. She has successfully integrated pain reprocessing therapy into her clinical practice. This approach is based on the understanding that a significant portion of chronic pain and symptoms are neuroplastic, meaning the brain is responsible for triggering and perpetuating them*.
In the world of immune-mediation conditions, we do find that some patients may continue to have pain even when advanced treatments are managing their inflammation. Treating an immune-mediated condition to prevent irreversible damage to tissue from excess inflammation is the foundation of treatment. When there is pain beyond that, addressing how the brain processes pain can provide additional benefits for overall well-being.
One of the leaders in this field of PRT is Dr. Alan Gordon, who authored, The Way Out. Nicole Sachs is also a great resource who hosts regular podcasts on the subject, as well as chronic anxiety. You can learn more about her work here and look out for her new book, Mind Your Body. “Curable” is another podcast that many people have found valuable.
* What is Pain Reprocessing Therapy? — Pain Psychotherapy Canada Inc.
Carolyn Whiskin is the Pharmacy Manager for Charlton Health. Carolyn specializes in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, pharmaceutical compounding, women’s health, pain, and smoking cessation. Carolyn has won provincial and national awards for her commitment to patient care and public service.