Somatocognitive therapy in the management of chronic gynaecological pain. A review of the historical background and results of a current approach.

Gro Killi Haugstad, MHS, PhD, Unni Kirste, MD, Siv Leganger, MPs, Elin Haakonsen, MHS and Tor S. Haugstad, MD, PhD.

 This concept was discussed at the last journal club meeting.  It was one of the only treatments with evidence of success.  http://pelvicpt.blogspot.com/2012/06/does-evidence-support-physiotherapy.html   The entire paper is available on line https://oda.hio.no/jspui/bitstream/10642/1127/1/896167post.pdf     and describes the technique fairly well.   Watch for July journal club article email on July 2^nd.

 “Somatocognitive therapy - a hybrid of physiotherapy and cognitive psychotherapy. Focusing on the present cognitive content of the mind of the patient, and acknowledging the important role of the body in pain-eliciting defense mechanisms against mental stress and negative emotions..

The core of this somatocognitive therapy is to 1) promote awareness of own body, 2) graded task assignment related to the motor patterns utilized in daily activities, 3) combined with an empathic attitude built on dialogue and mutual understanding, and emotional containment and support. The goal is for the patient to develop coping strategies and mastery of own life. In addition, 4) manual release of tensed muscles and applied relaxation techniques are important.”