I don’t do a whole lot of book reviews here on BackWords. The truth is, if you were going to buy a book about back pain, I would prefer if you bought mine. However, occasionally I come across a book that covers things in an interesting or fun way differently from my own approach. In this case, the book focuses on a topic I don’t usually address in my couples-based approach.
Be the Boss of Your Pain by Timothy Culbert, M.D., and Rebecca Kajander, C.P.N.P. is an wonderful book that gives kids really wonderful tips and strategies for helping to reduce the effect of pain on their lives. With information on the physiology and psychology of pain, the book never panders, and is written in a comfortable, accessible style. The book lays out a mission statement in the first few pages, explaining that the goal is to help kids get rid of pain, make fewer visits to the doctor’s office, take less medicine, and basically how to get back into their lives.
With an approach that covers body, mind , and spirit- the authors include information on breathing and visualization exercises, as well as information about other modalities such as aromatherapy and acupressure- all in a way which is presented in a way children can understand and get excited about.
Children suffering with painful conditions often face difficult circumstances- frequent doctor’s visits, and dependency on adults for relief can leave kids feeling helpless and out of control of their lives. Be the Boss of Your Pain gives kids an opportunity to regain some of that control. For those of you familiar with my work, you know that is the goal of much of what I do. I have a copy of it in my treatment room, and virtually every patient has picked it up, and commented on what a fantastic concept it is- offering tips which are also applicable for adults. Check it out.
Thanks for visiting!
-Andy
