Abstract
Purposes of Study and Background
This study investigates the role of the patient and the therapeutic relationship with their medical practitioner in resolving CLBP (chronic low back pain). Many cases of chronic pain persist due to the stress response. The body is equipped with natural self-healing mechanisms that must be activated by the patient. This needs facilitation by someone trained to engage the patient in this process. Evidence shows that conventional medication; surgery and physical rehabilitation do not always resolve chronic pain. To ensure that the stress response doesn't sabotage biomedical intervention the patient may need to address any problems obstructing a healthy lifestyle. This means supporting healthy relationships, and good health in other areas such as: professional life, financial matters, beliefs and creativity.
Summary of Methods used and Results
Recent Case Studies are described where patients presented with severe CLBP. The Roland Morris Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire was used to measure outcomes. Treatment included education about the ANS (autonomic nervous system); an active health plan in which the patient takes responsibility for their own healing; and movement guidelines to support the parasympathetic NS. The results show a significant pain reduction and increase in mobility.
Conclusion
In these cases conventional medical intervention did not resolve CLBP. These and similar cases during the past 12 years illustrate that this treatment procedure can reduce or eliminate CLBP. Recent research about how stress influences chronic pain may explain these results. More research is needed to investigate the relationship between the ANS and chronic pain, and the implications for the therapeutic relationship.
This abstract and case studies have not been previously published. A reference to the same methodology used in a different study was a minor part of a Poster for Irish Pain Society ASM in November 2013 and a current joint study with University College Cork, Dept. of Anatomy & Neuroscience. The methodology will also be described in an article commissioned by John Lindsay, Chair of Chronic Pain Ireland for CPI journal in Autumn 2014.
Conflicts of interest: No conflicts of interest
Source of funding: No funding obtained
