Acute pain is associated with the sudden outset of pain such as a broken arm, a cut finger, a burn on the hand and is generally more intense than chronic pain. Chronic pain is usually of an ongoing nature such as back pain, arthritis and intensity may vary. The experience of pain is a combination of the type of pain, tension, fear and anxiety. Often tension, fear and anxiety can intensify the experience of pain.
Pain causes tension and tightening up of the affected area of the body.
Our normal response to pain is to resist the pain by tightening up even more and becoming more tense. This increases the severity of the pain experience. By relaxation of the body there is a natural reduction of pain. By proper suggestion in the hypnotic state, the experience of pain can be reduced or eliminated for periods of time. I teach the client self hypnosis and imagery so that the client can use it when needed.