Psychophysiologic Disorders

Book excerpt: Did you know that one in six adults and 30-40% of primary care patients suffer from medically unexplained symptoms, chronic functional syndromes or psychosocial factors linked to chronic pain? Collectively these are known as Psychophysiologic Disorders or PPD. A trauma-informed, evidence-based approach to diagnosis and treatment can transform these patients from among the most frustrating to the most rewarding and give them a far better chance for a full recovery. As one family physician who learned these concepts said: "It put the joy back into my practice." From this innovative book, medical and mental health professionals will learn to relieve (not just manage) physical symptoms by assessing for and treating current life stresses, past traumas, suppressed emotions and the prolonged impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The sixteen authors from five countries average 20 years of experience in the fields of Adolescent Medicine, Family Medicine, Gastroenterology, Health Journalism, Integrative Medicine, Internal Medicine, Movement Therapy, Neuroscience, Orthopedic Spine Surgery, Pain Medicine, Physiotherapy, Psychiatry, Psychoanalysis, Psychology, Psychotherapy, and Sports Medicine. From this wide range of backgrounds, the authors reached consensus on a core set of practices that were a revelation for them and their patients. These concepts are practical and can readily be implemented by any healthcare professional.In addition to the editors, chapter authors include James Alexander PhD, Mariclare Dasigenis LCSW, David Hanscom MD, Ian Kleckner PhD MPH, Mark Lumley PhD, Daniel Lyman LCSW MPA, Meghan Maguire, Georgie Oldfield MCSP, David Schechter MD, Eric Sherman PsyD, John Stracks MD, and Joel Town DClinPsy.