For centuries, healers and medical professionals have pondered the connection between physical and mental health. But, in recent years, researchers have finally begun to parse this mind-body connection, finding ways that thought patterns can both harm and help various ailments. For example, the Twin Cities-based team at iSpine Pain Physicians says this connection is especially valuable to those seeking chronic pain relief. Here’s why.

What Is the Mind-Body Connection?

Whether you realize it or not, your body responds to the way you think, feel, and act. For instance, if you’re stressed, you may feel butterflies in your stomach or notice your heart rate increase. Similarly, your physical health influences your emotional state. If you have the flu, for example, you might be upset that you have to cancel your weekend plans.  

This phenomenon exists because your nervous, endocrine, and immune systems all share a common chemical language by way of hormones and neurotransmitters. These messengers transmit information between these and other systems, thus facilitating a mind-body connection.

How Is It Related to Chronic Pain Relief?

Chronic back, neck and shoulder pain exists at the intersection of physical and mental health. If you experience daily discomfort, you are more likely to develop anxiety and depression. Likewise, these disorders have been linked to reports of increased pain.

So, to achieve chronic pain relief, you need to break the cycle and find a balance between the mind and body. That means treating the physical symptoms through non-invasive treatments like back injections as well as the emotional symptoms through therapy, meditation, or similar methods.

Serving Chaska, Delano, Crystal, and Maple Grove, MN, iSpine Pain Physicians will help you find lasting chronic pain relief. Whether you need non-invasive treatment or a referral to a mental health specialist, their team is on your side. Call them at (763) 201-8191 to schedule an appointment. For more on the mind-body connection, visit their website.