An Introduction to TMS / PPD Therapy
Perhaps you are experiencing a chronic condition and like so many of us have been told by doctors that you have ‘ a degenerated disc or that they can’t find anything wrong.’ You’re probably at your wit’s end and feel like you’ve tried everything. But I’m here to tell you there is hope and I can say that because of the hundreds of people who have recovered using the TMS/PPD approach. An approach which doesn’t involve surgery, medication or simply managing your pain.
What Is TMS/PPD?
TMS or Tension Myositis Syndrome was originally described by Dr John Sarno who was then a professor of Clinical Rehabilitation Medicine at New York University School of Medicine, and attending physician at the Howard A. Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine at New York University Medical Center. TMS describes a condition which causes chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues and fatigue conditions like fibromyalgia and yet doesn’t have a pathological or structural basis or cannot be explained by diagnosis tests. It’s also known by a number of other names including Tension Myoneural Syndrome, Psychophysiologic Disorder and Stress Induced Conditions.
This condition causes very real pain, it certainly isn’t ‘all in your head’ but the symptoms you experience aren’t caused by a physical, structural problem, they’re actually caused by the autonomic nervous system, linked to unresolved emotional turmoil. Your brain is trying to protect you and keep you safe, sometimes even from yourself.
Is there evidence supporting TMS/PPD?
Yes, over the last 20 years there have been many studies showing the link between the mind and the body. In fact the sheer number of studies is quite overwhelming. Currently the list supporting this approach is up to about 115 different studies.
From studies showing that 76% of people have disc degeneration to studies highlighting the link between pain and learnt helplessness. Research shows that our beliefs, thoughts and experiences have a huge impact on what we feel. This study showed that the biggest predictor of back pain was not due to physical attributes but more lack of leadership and feelings of control.
Research continues to show us that how we think and feel leads us to feelings of physical pain and chronic conditions. Below is a list of conditions commonly associated with TMS/PPD.
TMS / PPD Conditions
Symptoms in the field of TMS (Tension Myositis Syndrome) PPD (Psychophysiologic Disorders) or Stress Induced Conditions include:
- Back pain, neck pain, hip pain, shoulder pain and any other aches and pains.
- Sciatica
- IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
- Whiplash
- RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury)
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome,
- Sacro-Iliac Joint dysfunction
- Numbness, Itching, Burning, Tingling
- Frequent infections
- Allergies
- Undiagnosed chest pain
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)
- Tinnitus
How does TMS / PPD Develop?
There are many reasons why somebody experiences TMS / PPD but they focus around the following four elements, past experiences, current life pressures, personality traits and the pace of life. Often it’s a culmination of a number of these four factors and sometimes just one. The unresolved emotions, pressures and stress build up and instead of dealing with these emotions we ignore them, push them to one side and push on with life. As a result our bodies process those messages physically through symptoms in the body.
TMS / PPD Treatment
The treatment for TMS / PPD is a self empowering and educational one. As Dr John Sarno highlighted in his book ‘Healing Back Pain.‘
The first step is to read one or some of the books in this field as it’s only when you fully accept the TMS/PPD approach will you be able to recover. Some people have recovered just from reading and implementing the advice so this is a great way to start and ensure this is the right approach for you. Below are a list of book I would recommend:
- Chronic Pain: Your Key to Recovery – Georgie Oldfield
- The Mindbody Prescription – Dr John Sarno
- The Body Keeps the Score – Bessel Van Der Kolk
- Unlearn Your Pain – Dr Howard Schubiner
About the Author - Zoe Thompson
Zoe is a qualified hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner and TMS/SIRPA Pain Recovery Specialist. Zoe is passionate about helping people find freedom from the anxieties, stress illnesses, chronic pain and other issues that prevent fulfillment in life and work. Zoe has 10 years experience in helping people and teams make positive change so they feel happier and healthier in their life. You can read more about Zoe here.
My TMS/PPD Treatment - 4 simple steps
Step 1 – The first step is a complimentary mindset review, this is an opportunity to chat either online or over the phone to learn more about your specific experiences. It’s also a chance to answer any questions you have.
Step 2 – If we decide my services are right for you we’ll begin with an in-depth assessment, helping you connect the dots and understand what is contributing to your chronic pain/TMS symptoms.
Step 3 – Following your assessment we’ll design an individual treatment plan to tackle any elements which came up in the assessment. You’ll have 1-2-1 sessions either in person or online.
Step 4 – Your plan will also be supported by online tools which are available 24/7 so you can deepen your understanding and improve your mental toolkit in the comfort of your own home.
Apologies, I’m currently not accepting any new clients