The effects of detoxification, relaxation, and brief supportive therapy on chronic pain

Abstract

Seven chronic pain patients (6 with abdominal pain and 1 with headache pain) were detoxified from analgesic medications, taught relaxation techniques and given an average of 3 supportive therapy sessions. The effects of these procedures at posttreatment and at 6 mo. follow-up were analyzed by self-report diaries of pain, mood, activity and medication usage. There was a significant reduction in pain from posthospital in 5 of 7 patients and a significant reduction in pain at 6 mo. follow-up for all patients. There was a significant reduction in medication use for all subjects. Mood ratings tended to improve when pain was reduced, and some patients reported increased activity levels. Detoxification combined with relaxation and supportive therapy appears to produce significant relief from pain for these 7 patients.