The problem is that matters get worse not solely due to progression of the disease (the pathology in the tissues) but to the vicious circle patients find themselves in. A person who has pain, especially on movement, tends to avoid doing things that provoke their symptoms. They rest but unfortunately this is not a helpful treatment as it leads to secondary stiffness and weakness, causing worsening of the symptom that the individual is trying to avoid.
Pain should not be thought of as the same for all patients. Cognitive behavioral approaches made to address the source of your pain combined with physical therapy can improve the way you manage and cope with your pain. The approach is very much related to problem solving and returning control to the sufferer. Many patients state that the pain rules their lives and cannot see how this can change without a medical cure. However, with appropriate instruction in a range of pacing techniques, cognitive therapy to help identify negative thinking patterns and the development of effective challenges, stretching and exercising to improve physical function, careful planning of tasks and daily activities, and the judicious use of relaxation training, many people find that treatment enables them to take back control of their lives, to do more and feel better.
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