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Complementary or alternative approaches are often used in combination
with traditional analgesic treatments, rather than as substitutes for
them.
Some therapies that are typically considered alternative are actually
considered mainstream by most pain specialists. These include approaches
that have been called mind-body (psychologists usually refer to them as
cognitive therapies), such as relaxation therapy, distraction techniques,
biofeedback, and hypnosis, as well as acupuncture and therapeutic massage.
Other complementary therapies include a wide range of practices such as
meditation, chiropractic, and nutritional or other remedies that are thought
to prompt the body's release of pain-relieving substances. Many of these
therapies are readily available, easy to do, inexpensive and low risk.
In addition to helping relieve pain, they also may improve sleep, reduce
anxiety and increase one's sense of control.
The Louis Armstrong Music Therapy program has been serving individuals
and families since 1994. Music Therapy is the intentional use of music
and its elements to achieve well being. The Armstrong team is composed
of music therapists and interns who specialize in the use of music and
the therapeutic relationship as agents of change in treating patients
and families. Sessions include individual and group bedside times, as
well as group times in an outpatient clinic setting. Music therapists
are able to accompany patients to procedures in various areas of the hospital,
including the operating room, endoscopy, chemotherapy. Patients who are
referred include those who are newly diagnosed, to those who are using
music as a passage or transition in ending life. Patients who are experiencing
pain and/or discomfort are given priority. Music therapy experiences include
music listening, live improvisation, guided visualizations, the use of
song in life-review, vibration (gong), and toning. For more information,
please contact Joanne Loewy, DA, MT-BC, at 212-420-3484 or Kristen Stewart,
MA, MT-BC, at 212-420-2722 or email: stoppain@chpnet.org.
Please visit our website,
HealingChronicPain.org, for more information.
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