The SIRPA programme is based on the work of the late Dr John E Sarno, a pioneering doctor in New York America, who wrote the book ‘Healing Back Pain’ and ‘The Mindbody Prescription’ – he diagnosed people with ‘Tension Myonueral Syndrome’ (TMS).

Dr Sarno will examine the patient thoroughly to rule out anything structurally wrong e.g. Tumor or ligament and finding none his diagnosis is TMS a psychological induced alteration in the physiology which causes pain but doesnt cause damage.

This diagnosis is based on the idea that the unconscious brain is causing pain to distract us from unthinkable thoughts like anger at your parents or frustration with your kids that you cannot allow yourself to feel. Dr Sarno goes on to suggest that our brain thinks it has to create a physical disorder in order to protect you from some very powerful dangerous emotions. You will have a symptom that will keep your attention focused on your body.

His PRESCRIPTION is knowledge and the treatment method involves thinking emotionally rather than physically in other words one must examine what is going on in their lives and the pressures what they put themselves under. He gets people to journal everyday and resume physical activity asap to get over the FEAR of that the pain is caused by a physical problem because the fear its a major part of the distraction process. Please see ‘All The Rage’ documentary about this pioneering man.

Dr Howard Schubiner who refers to TMS as Mindbody Syndrome has also written a book ‘Unlearn your Pain’ based on his valued and respected experience of this condition.

http://www.thankyoudrsarno.org