Dont Worry If Your Pain Is Also Emotionally Based Its A Chicken And Egg Situation

Today's post from thelightmedia.com (see link below) doesn't seem to be directly related to neuropathy as such but if any group of pain patients understands the correlation between emotional states and their physical pain, it's nerve damage patients. They are also frequent victims of pain stigma; where outsiders accuse them of having a psychosomatic problem and in effect...faking it. You don't need telling that this makes the problem so much worse. However, if psychosomatic pain is pain that is 'created' and not 'real', then nerve pain is exactly that because nerve pain stems from faulty nerve cell signals moving to and from the brain cells. People living with neuropathy can also have other forms of pain that are nociceptive (stemming from injury and physical damage) and not neuropathic and this can cause all sorts of confusion, both for the patient and the concerned onlooker. This article takes a look at forms of pain that are influenced by and influence, emotions. If nothing else, it may help you sort out what you're feeling en help you better deal with it.

10 Types Of Pain That Are Directly Linked To Your Emotions
2017

“Psychosomatic means mind (psyche) and body (soma). A psychosomatic disorder is a disease which involves both mind and body. Some physical diseases are thought to be particularly prone to be made worse by mental factors such as stress and anxiety.”

(A quick note before we begin: it is extremely important that any severe physical symptoms must be attended to by a licensed medical professional, such as a physician.)

If there is a mental aspect to virtually every type of disease, isn’t it then rational to assume there is a mental aspect to virtually every type of physical pain? The simple truth is that mental states affect physical states and vice-versa.

Traditional medicine has labeled this the psychosomatic effect. Interestingly, the specialty of psychosomatic medicine is the latest sub-specialty in psychiatry to become board-certified. Board-certified physicians comprise the “best of the best” in 24 different medical specializations (e.g. neurology, dermatology, psychiatry, etc.) As important, these medical specialties are universally recognized by the medical and scientific communities as vital to public health.

Indeed, pain can be caused by emotional and mental states. In science, it has been demonstrated that both mental/emotional and physical pain activates the same areas of the brain: the anterior insula and the anterior cingulate cortex. So – a physiological connection between brain and body exists as well.

Here we are going to discuss 10 different types of pain that are directly linked to feelings, emotions and thoughts. Equipped with this knowledge, one can begin to make whatever adjustments necessary to feel better (we’ll also provide some recommendations).

Here are 10 types of pain caused by feelings/emotions/thoughts:

1. Back pain

Areas of the back and shoulders are arguably where we feel muscle tension the most. Chiropractors, osteopaths and other medical professionals have been explaining the stress/anxiety connection between back pain and mental/emotional health for years.

Making matters worse, this type of pain is cyclical. We begin to stress and worry about back pain, which tenses back the muscles; the muscles tense, and then we begin to feel things like frustration and anger.

2. Headaches and migraines

Dr. Christina Peterson, a board-certified physician, writes: “Stress comes in many varieties, including time stress, emotional stress, and the stress of physical fatigue…and (these) emotions pack a wallop for the migraine sufferer.” Furthermore, emotions like anger, anxiety, crying/sadness and depression trigger headache pains.

The good doctors recommend practicing relaxation techniques, meditation, and to seek the help of a counselor in the event that this pain doesn’t subside.

3. Neck pain

The buildup of emotions; more specifically, negative emotions, can affect virtually every area of the body. Neck pain, according to Calm Clinic, is one of the most common complaints of people suffering from anxiety-related disorders.

It’s nearly impossible to explain every one of the multitude of ways that anxiety can manifest. Financial problems/worries, relationship problems, sadness, fatigue, etc.

4. Shoulder pain

Many kinesiologists believe that our shoulders are the area of the body most prone to feeling the adverse effects from pressure. Ever wonder where the axiom “Carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders” comes from?

Us too. But it turns out there is a whole lot of truth to it.

5. Stomach aches and/or cramps

Our poor stomach is where we house most of our worries, fears, and anxieties. Experiencing these emotions repeatedly, without surprise, can cause stomach aches and pains. In fact, as it turns out, chronic stress can develop into stomach ulcers.

6. Elbow pain and/or stiffness

Dr. Alan Fogel, in a piece published by Psychology Today, writes, “All emotions have a motor component.” The elbow is no different. While medical conditions such as arthritis and others may be the reason for pain or stiffness; mental states such as anxiety and depression can also manifest in strange areas…including the elbows.

7. Pain in hands

Similar to the elbows, pain in the hands can arise from legitimate medical conditions. Some even say that hand pain may result from feelings of isolation or confinement. As Dr. Fogel said, every one of our emotions manifests into a physical symptom…so, anything is possible, right?

8. Hip pain

Aside from a documental medical condition, some type of emotional trigger is almost assuredly the cause of hip pain. The human body has more nerve connections in the hip than we would think; so distress can manifest into physical pain in this area as well.

9. Knee pain

The rationale given for knee pain experienced from emotions is pretty much the same as that given for hip pain. Of course, there are many nerve endings in the knee; hence, more of a brain/body connection. As such, it is perhaps more likely that emotional triggers such as anxiety, fear, depression, etc. will manifest into knee pain than other, less sensitive areas, such as the hip.

10. Foot pain

Here’s what one podiatrist says about the relationship between mental/emotional states and foot pain: “Stressed people present with a wide range of biomechanical issues. I am not trying to be a guru…but I am convinced there is an anecdotal connection between lower limb and foot presentation and their emotional status.”

Experts at Columbia University admit that “there’s some evidence that there are psychological conditions that may be associated with physical symptoms,” and that treating the real cause of the pain may be the answer.

Related article: This Simple Mind-Body Exercise Reduces Negative Thoughts and Improves Health

After investigating the physical pain or stress, it’s worthwhile to do the same with any emotional state(s). What are you feeling?

Relaxation techniques (e.g. progressive muscle relaxation), controlled breathing, meditation, guided imagery, and many other techniques and practices exist to help people who are experiencing both physical and/or emotional pain.

http://thelightmedia.com/posts/55199-10-types-of-pain-that-are-directly-linked-to-your-emotions

Its A Stress Protein That Makes Neuropathic Pain Worse Who Knew!

Today's post from sciencedaily.com (see link below) is another of those infuriating articles that highlight the discovery of yet another pain blocking or enhancing protein or molecule or genetic marker and offer hope that in the future, this knowledge will be used to produce drugs aimed at blocking pain signals. They're infuriating because we know that the end product is still years away and because we only ever partially understand the science but they're also essential in letting us know that progress is being made, however slowly and giving us a glimpse into the world where researchers are exploring ways to control chronic pain symptoms such as neuropathy produces.

Blocking stress protein relieves chronic pain in mice  February 10, 2016 Source:University College London
 
Group of drugs being developed to treat mood disorders could also relieve chronic pain Date:

A group of drugs being developed to treat mood disorders could also relieve chronic pain, finds new UCL (University College London) research funded by the Medical Research Council.

The study, published in Science Translational Medicine, reveals how a protein that shapes the body's response to stress also drives chronic pain and so offers new targets for future pain treatments.

The researchers studied genetically modified mice that lacked a protein called FKBP51. This protein is very important for regulating stress. Variations in the human FKBP5 gene are linked to the risk of developing stress-related psychiatric disorders, such as major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Previous studies have shown that people with specific FKBP5 variations feel greater physical pain after serious trauma, and the UCL team have now discovered that mice without FKBP51 experience reduced chronic pain from nerve damage and arthritic joints.

"Inhibiting FKBP51 has a very powerful effect in mice with chronic pain," says lead author Dr Maria Maiarù (UCL Cell & Developmental Biology). "Not only does it block the pain from their injury without affecting their normal pain response, it also makes them more mobile. We did not find any negative side-effects."

The team then tested an FKBP51-blocking compound called SAFit2, developed by Dr Felix Hausch at the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry to treat mood disorders by acting in the brain to reduce anxiety. By selectively blocking FKBP51 in the spinal cord, the UCL researchers were able to test its effects on chronic pain independently of its known effects on the brain. They found that SAFit2 substantially alleviated chronic pain in mice, making it a promising candidate for drug development.

"The compound was designed to have positive effects on mental health, but we have discovered that it also has significant benefits for physical pain syndromes," says senior author Dr Sandrine Géranton (UCL Cell and Developmental Biology). "Who wouldn't want a treatment that relieves chronic pain while also making you less stressed? This was an experimental study with mice, but if this could be successfully translated into a treatment for patients, it would be a win-win."

The study also showed that an injury can trigger long-term epigenetic changes in spinal cord sensory circuits. This in turn leads to increased production of FKBP51 which contribute to the body's pain response.

"FKBP51 in the brain can prolong the stress response after trauma and we have found that it also exacerbates the pain response," explains Dr Géranton. "Although this may have once had an evolutionary advantage in promoting survival, in our current lifestyles it can lead to chronic pain, depression and PTSD. Chronic pain affects 1 in 5 adults worldwide and there are currently no effective treatments, so we are extremely excited to have identified a new treatment target."

Story Source:

The above post is reprinted from materials provided by University College London. Note: Materials may be edited for content and length.

Journal Reference:
M. Maiaru, K. K. Tochiki, M. B. Cox, L. V. Annan, C. G. Bell, X. Feng, F. Hausch, S. M. Geranton. The stress regulator FKBP51 drives chronic pain by modulating spinal glucocorticoid signaling. Science Translational Medicine, 2016; 8 (325): 325ra19 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aab3376

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/02/160210165713.htm

Its Plantar Fasciitis!

You get out of bed one morning and your foot hits the ground. "OUCH!" What's causing this pain? You walk around getting ready for work and the pain seems to be disappearing. "Phew", you have to go for your 10 miler after work. The next day the same thing happens. Eventually, you feel the pain every time you stand. AND even when you are running! Finally, after a week you decided to do a Google search - plantar faciitis.
You roll, you ice, you wear a sock thing at night, but nothing changes.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar Fascitis is the inflammation of the fascia (connective tissue) on the bottom of your foot. It spans from the heel to the toes. At the beginning stages,  the tissue gets stretched with weight bearing however over time, with each step the tissue gets more inflamed.

What are the risk factors plantar fasciitis?

A systematic review of journal articles on plantar fasciitis was performed in 2008 and revised in 2014. The big risk factors for getting plantar fasciitis are being a runner, a person who stands for work and limited ankle dorsiflexion. We all all know you're not going to stop running or working, so let's focus on what we can change.

Limited ankle dorsiflexion
This means the ankle joint has a limited mobility to flex the foot towards the body. Ankle dorsiflexion is required to have proper mechanics while running. When ankle dorsiflexion is limited, the sequence of movement of the foot is changed, putting more stress onto the plantar fascia.
Tightness of the calf muscles ( gastrocnemius and soleus) can also contribute to limited dorsiflexion. Connective tissue from the calf spans down into the heel and blends into the plantar fascia. Limited mobility of the calf muscles can contribute to increase stress of the plantar fascia.

Treatment

Ball Roll on Calf 

Most people with plantar fasciitis know to roll the bottom of their foot on a tennis ball or golf ball. However, there is a myofascial pain referral zone at the base of the calf where the muscle becomes tendon. This zone is slightly to the outside of the center of the muscle tendon junction. In a long sit position, use a roller or a lacrosse ball to roll out the area for 2-5 minutes depending on tolerance.

'X' marks the spot

Ankle Mobilization

Lace Lock method

When you can't have a therapist to follow you around, you have to improvise. Using a running shoe is the perfect substitute to assist in self mobilizations. Tie shoes using the lace lock method. Thread the lace on the same side through the last hole. Pull the opposite lace through the hoop. Tie the shoes really tight across the front of the ankle. In standing, put one foot in front and rock forward allowing the knee to bend to mobilize the ankle. Angle the knee to go over the pinky toe. Then angle the one to go over the big toe.
5 times each direction
*** Only tie the shoes laces very tight when mobilizing!!

Calf Stretch with Tri- Plane Tweak

This is a tri-planar tweak on the standard calf stretch. Stand with one foot forward and use knee to drive the motion forward. Then twist left and right. Lastly sway your hips side to side.
Perform 10-15 repetitions

Out of the box

In normal mechanics, the hip and thoracic spine absorbs lateral and rotation motion respectively as the arms swing back and forth. However, if those regions are stiff, the motion is transferred to the ankle. The ankle is forced into an over supinated position. In the supinated position the foot is unable to absorb shock putting more stress on the plantar fascia. Improving mobility in the hips and thoracic spine will take the stress off the plantar fascia.
Please refer to earlier post on stretching the hip and thoracic spine.

http://3drunner.blogspot.com/2015/03/spine-stiffness.html
http://3drunner.blogspot.com/2014/06/ankle-sprain-how-thoracic-spine-and-hip.html

By addressing limitations locally in the ankle and globally at the hip and thoracic spine, you achieve a more comprehensive treatment plan.

Its that time

...... to start making remedies. Folks are asking about congestion, sinuses, kid's colds, coughs, and the pending flu. I received an email for a lovely customer from 10 years ago, who has not been able to find a chest rub since that worked like mine :). How flattering! So of course I had to heed her request for more of my good old "Phlegm-Away". And I made extra for my own kids. How sweet the feeling to have something come around like that, to know that your remedies achieved some longevity, to know they were well received and remembered. I imagine how it might feel to watch it pass through a whole generation or two.

{Oh - and if any of you are actually curious enough to enlarge the picture only to be shocked by the words 'true wintergreen', don't worry. I don't even attempt to buy this anymore, it is actually a little bottle of real Wintergreen that I have been safely protecting for near twelve years now. Amazingly it smells as good as it did before. }

How The US Is Changing Its Mind On Marijuana

Today's interesting post from the Australian abc.net.au (see link below) takes a slightly different look at the progress of marijuana legalisation in the United States. The gradual recognition of the benefits of medical marijuana for a variety of conditions (including neuropathic pain) has led to more and more states legalising the herb thus allowing many more people to take advantage. It's one of the few areas where the USA actually seems to be taking a more liberal stand than most of the rest of the world. Worth a read.

The dope on legalising marijuana in the US
Ben Knight reported this story on Sunday, March 23, 2014
Listen to MP3 of this story ( minutes)

Alternate WMA version | MP3 download

ELIZABETH JACKSON: This month in the US, the District of Columbia became the latest jurisdiction to vote to decriminalise marijuana.

There's been a sea change in public attitudes towards the drug in America.

In the space of less than 10 years, public support for marijuana legalisation has gone from around 25 per cent to almost 60 per cent.

Much of that has to do with the medical marijuana revolution, which began in San Francisco back in 1996.

Ben Knight reports from Washington, DC.

BEN KNIGHT: Not surprisingly, there are lots of reasons for the shift in public support for marijuana law reform in the US.

One of them is simply demographics. As the baby boomers get older, there are simply more people who have had some kind of experience smoking dope, including this guy:

BARACK OBAMA: I didn't have a dad in the house, and I was angry about it, even though I didn't necessarily realise it at the time. I made bad choices. I got high, without always thinking about the harm that it could do. I didn't always take school as seriously as I should have. And the only difference is that I grew up in an environment that was a little bit more forgiving. So when I made a mistake, the consequences were not as severe.

BEN KNIGHT: It was a powerful message from president Barack Obama, because he didn't just admit that he'd used marijuana, but that he'd misused it, and that he'd been luckier than a lot of other teenagers - especially black teenagers.

In many places in this country, minorities make up the vast bulk of marijuana arrests. But this is an issue that unites the left and right wings of politics.

Libertarian Republicans look at the amount of taxpayer money that goes into marijuana prosecutions - and the cost to society - and they compare that to the tax dollars they see coming back in from states that have legal medical marijuana.

Others on the right take the view that the government simply shouldn't be regulating what people choose to do in their own lounge rooms.

Now the debate is of course far from over, and there are very real concerns, particularly about the effect of marijuana on young developing minds, and what kind of message legalising it - or even just decriminalising it - sends to teenagers.

But there's little doubt that either that marijuana supporters are winning that debate. And a lot of that has to do with medical marijuana.

(Rabbi Jeffery Kahn enters)

BEN KNIGHT: Jeffery, how are you?

JEFFERY KAHN: Great. Welcome - delighted that you're here.

BEN KNIGHT: Thank you, great to be here.

(Voiceover): This is the Takoma Wellness Centre in Washington, DC.

JEFFREY KAHN: This door leads to the dispensary.

BEN KNIGHT: Wow, look at it.

(Voiceover): There are thousands of centres like this in 20 states across the US. The owner of this one is Rabbi Jeffrey Kahn.

JEFFREY KAHN: Many of our patients are older. They have never had an experience with cannabis.

BEN KNIGHT: He started this business with his wife Stephanie in 2010.

Their only experience with marijuana was through Stephanie's parents, both of whom used medical marijuana but who had to do it illegally.

STEPHANIE KAHN: We really saw what it could do, but we also saw the fear that they had.

BEN KNIGHT: Stephanie's father was first, after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

STEPHANIE KAHN: Back in the 70s, the doctors started saying 'try marijuana.' And this was the 70s - he had a teenage daughter, and he was a very straight-laced businessman - and he was like, 'no, I'm not going to.'

But eventually he ended up trying it and it made a huge difference. It helped his spasms, it helped his neuropathies in his fingers and his feet, and it helped pain - it really helped him.

But we were all scared to death. I mean this was, again, the 70s and my parents particularly were afraid that someone was going to go knocking down their door and arrest them.

BEN KNIGHT: Then, after her father died, the family moved from Miami to Washington, where Stephanie's mother was diagnosed with cancer.

STEPHANIE KAHN: We hadn't been living here, we didn't know anybody, we couldn't get anything for her, she couldn't. And so she essentially was diagnosed in June 2009, and died in august 2009, and she wasted away. And the doctor kept saying 'you really need to try some of this and to use it just so you can take something down - eat something.'

BEN KNIGHT: This was at exactly the time that the District of Columbia voted to legalise medical marijuana. Stephanie and Jeffrey didn't think twice about opening their own dispensary.

STEPHANIE KAHN: I just fell in love with the idea. This would be something in my parents' memory. We can open some place that they could have gone to, that people like them could go to and feel safe and get help.

I get choked up every time I talk about this.

It was really important that we could do something here in their neighbourhood. It just meant a lot.

BEN KNIGHT: Tell me about your patients. I mean, do they remind you of your parents?

STEPHANIE KAHN: Yes, a number of them do, it's really amazing.

JEFFREY KAHN: I think that we're going to find some form of legalisation in just about every state. It's what's happening - there really isn't significant opposition, and I think that the old laws just don't really make any sense to anyone anymore.

BEN KNIGHT: This is Ben Knight in Washington for Correspondents Report.

http://www.abc.net.au/correspondents/content/2014/s3969374.htm