If you’re among the some 100 million Americans struggling with chronic pain – defined as any form of pain that lasts for at least 12 weeks – you might want to listen up. The answer to relief may be inside the pages of a book, according to a new study at the University of Liverpool in England.
Researchers found that the literature-based intervention known as shared reading (SR) can help patients become aware of and confront their deeper emotions related to chronic pain. And the benefits may even extend beyond cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has been long touted for the treatment of pain management. The results were published in the BMJ Journal for Medical Humanities.
“Our study indicated that shared reading could potentially be an alternative to CBT in bringing into conscious awareness areas of emotional pain otherwise passively suffered by chronic pain patients,” said study leader Dr. Josie Billington from the Centre for Research into Reading, Literature, and Society (CRILS).
Opioid-Free Ways to Manage Pain
This is especially good news in lieu of our growing opioid abuse epidemic. As you likely already know, prescription painkillers (like OxyContin, Vicodin and codeine) may bring relief – but there's often a high cost. These drugs can be highly addictive and even deadly. Luckily, there are many alternative, non-opioid methods that have been proven successful for individuals suffering from chronic pain. Talk to your healthcare professional to determine if any of these treatment methods may work for you:
- Acupuncture
- Hypnotherapy
- Sound therapy
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Massage therapy
- Exercise
- Physical therapy
Help at The Haven
If you’re suffering from chronic pain and opioid addiction, our credentialed staff will teach you the skills needed to stay sober and manage your pain. Our specialized therapies include hypnotherapy, sound therapy and more. Call us today: 805-202-3440.
1-805-202-3440
