Psychosomatic Physical Therapy
Psychosomatic Physical Therapy
The psychosomatic physical therapist specializes in treating physically unexplained symptoms, burnout, and anxiety-related symptoms. Your physical symptoms may be related to an imbalance between physical and psychological stress. The balance between stress and resilience is often disrupted.
The link between physical symptoms and mental stress isn’t always obvious at first. Physical signs are often ignored or misinterpreted at first. If your symptoms worsen over time, medical tests may not reveal much.
It is often difficult to make a clear medical diagnosis, which can leave you feeling confused. A psychosomatic physical therapist can help you navigate this situation.
You may find that you are experiencing more pain and fatigue and that you are more irritable and tense. These symptoms may be related to certain life circumstances, such as: high perceived work pressure, conflicts, emotional events, relationship problems, the loss of loved ones, or serious illnesses.
What are the most common symptoms?
If your symptoms persist for a long time, they can disrupt your balance. This can weaken your physical and mental resilience and lead to psychosomatic symptoms, such as:
- Physical symptoms
- extreme fatigue
- unable to relax
- chest tightness, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or heart palpitations
- unexplained pain
- chronic pain
- Mental health issues
- to be listless
- sleeping poorly or too much
- to feel anxious and insecure
- difficulty concentrating
- feeling down and worrying a lot
- general feeling of unease
- feeling irritable, restless, or agitated
- no longer able to enjoy and relax
What does a psychosomatic treatment program entail?
A psychosomatic treatment program consists of a combination of breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, body awareness training, and exercise therapy to reduce stress, establish boundaries, and build resilience, with the goal of finding a balance between physical and mental strain. The treatment plan is tailored to each patient and focuses on practical skills and behavioral change.
The therapist will first assess your symptoms and the connections between your physical symptoms—such as pain, fatigue, and hyperventilation—and psychological factors.
The ultimate goal is to build greater resilience, self-reliance, and a more positive self-image, while reducing physical symptoms.
What is the difference between a general physical therapist and a psychosomatic physical therapist?
A psychosomatic physical therapist has completed an advanced master’s program in psychosomatics and possesses the in-depth knowledge needed to thoroughly assess and treat your symptoms.