How mind-body medicine is reshaping chronic pain treatment

If you’ve lived with chronic pain for months or years, you’ve probably discovered that there is rarely a single treatment that provides a lasting solution.

Medications may reduce symptoms temporarily. Physical therapies can improve movement and function. Injections or surgery may be appropriate for specific conditions. Yet many people continue to experience persistent pain despite receiving excellent medical care.

Over the past two decades, this challenge has prompted a fundamental shift in how chronic pain is understood and treated. Rather than viewing pain solely as a consequence of injured tissues, clinicians increasingly recognize that persistent pain is influenced by interactions between the brain, nervous system, emotions, behaviors and environment.