I can't seem to stop worrying about my low back pain. The doctor assures me it will go away with time and a few simple, daily exercises. The more I think about my situation, the more I hurt and the worse I feel. What can I do to stop this train of thought?

You may be a good candidate for a treatment program called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This is a form of patient education and counseling about pain and pain management. The counselor will teach and coach you in specific coping and relaxation techniques.

You will gain confidence that you can (and will) be able to manage your pain while taking care of yourself, taking care of things at home, and still working (if you have a job outside the home).

You will learn how to control and even turn off pain-related thoughts. The counselor will help you recognize if and when you are catastrophizing or expecting the worst.

Studies show that by reducing catastrophizing, patient's function and pain levels improve. At the same time, there is decreased disability. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and questions. Ask if CBT or other treatment methods might help you.