The Brain and Chronic Pain: Why Pain Persists Without Injury

Understanding Brain Wellness and Neurofeedback

📑 Table of Contents

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• Understanding Chronic Pain and the Brain
• Why Pain Persists Without Physical Injury
• Brain Plasticity and Pain Processing
• How LENS Neurofeedback May Help
• What Current Research Suggests
• The NeuroBalance Approach
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Next Steps

Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide, often persisting long after the original injury has healed or even when no physical damage can be detected.
Chronic pain is a universal problem that directly evolves the central nervous system, altering both its structure and function. This review discusses neuroplastic alterations in critical areas in the brain like the anterior cingulate cortex, insula, prefrontal cortex, primary (S1) and secondary (S2) somatosensory cortices, and thalamus.
Understanding why pain persists without injury requires examining the complex relationship between brain function and pain perception. Many clients find that traditional approaches don’t address the neurological aspects of chronic pain, which is where LENS neurofeedback therapy may provide valuable educational support.

Besides abnormal sensitization in the periphery and spinal cord, accumulating evidence suggests that neural plasticity in the brain is also critical for the development and maintenance of this pain. Recent technological advances in the measurement and manipulation of neuronal activity allow us to understand maladaptive plastic changes in the brain during neuropathic pain more precisely and modulate brain activity to reverse pain states at the preclinical and clinical levels.
For those seeking to understand their chronic pain from a neurological perspective, exploring the brain’s role in pain processing can provide valuable insights into potential wellness approaches.

Understanding Chronic Pain and the Brain

Traditional models of pain suggested a direct relationship between tissue damage and pain experience. However, modern neuroscience reveals a far more complex picture.
The traditional underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of pain perception says that pain involves a direct transmission system from somatic receptors to the brain. The amount of pain perceived, moreover, is assumed to be directly proportional to the extent of injury.
Yet countless individuals experience chronic pain without identifiable physical damage, indicating that the brain’s processing of pain signals is far more nuanced.

The peripheral and central neural networks that mediate nociception show extensive plasticity in pathological disease states. Disease-induced plasticity can occur at both structural and functional levels and is manifest as changes in individual molecules, synapses, cellular function and network activity.
This neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections—can sometimes work against us, maintaining pain patterns long after healing should have occurred.

The brain’s pain processing network involves multiple regions working together, including the primary somatosensory cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, insula, and prefrontal cortex. When these areas become dysregulated, they may continue sending pain signals even in the absence of tissue damage. Understanding this neurological basis of chronic pain opens new possibilities for neurofeedback brain training approaches that work directly with brain function.

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Key Research Insight

Research published in 2024 indicates that
“A significant focus on fibromyalgia is evident, with studies demonstrating the effectiveness of EEG biofeedback and Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) in reducing symptoms. The inclusion of various research designs, from randomized controlled trials to observational studies, provides a robust framework for understanding neurofeedback’s impact on this condition.”

Why Pain Persists Without Physical Injury

One of the most puzzling aspects of chronic pain is its ability to persist without detectable tissue damage.
Several cortical networks, mainly the central executive network, the default mode network, and the salience network exhibit neuroplasticity which reallocates cognitive and emotional resources to pain processing. Thus, it was reported that sensitivity to pain enhances emotional suffering, indicating that altered connectivity and functional reorganization of these networks support maladaptive pain processing and underpin chronic pain persistence.

Central sensitization plays a crucial role in this phenomenon.
Both cell types thus promote the progression of neuroinflammation and accelerate pain sensitivity, further establishing central sensitization in chronic pain states. These interrelated processes collectively contribute to the establishment and maintenance of central sensitization, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of heightened pain sensitivity and persistent pain states.
This creates a situation where the nervous system becomes hypervigilant, interpreting normal sensations as painful.

Memory and Pain Patterns

Based on theoretical considerations and recent observations, we argue that continued suffering of chronic pain is critically dependent on the state of motivational and emotional mesolimbic-prefrontal circuitry of the brain. The plastic changes that occur within this circuitry in relation to nociceptive inputs dictate the transition to chronic pain, rendering the pain less somatic and more affective in nature.
The brain essentially “learns” pain patterns, creating persistent neural pathways that maintain discomfort.

Sensory stimuli act on neural systems that have been modified by past inputs, and the behavioral output is significantly influenced by the “memory” of these prior events.
This understanding suggests that addressing chronic pain may require approaches that work with the brain’s learning and memory systems, such as LENS therapy for fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions.

Brainwave Patterns in Chronic Pain

Recent EEG research reveals specific brainwave changes associated with chronic pain.
CNP is associated with damage to the somatosensory nervous system, causing burning, squeezing or pricking-type sensations, numbness, and allodynia, producing ongoing pain fluctuating in frequency and severity, and sensory hypersensitivity. Several comprehensive reviews of EEG studies have highlighted a body of evidence for suppressed alpha activity and increased beta and/or theta activity in CP patients.

These altered brainwave patterns suggest that the brain’s electrical activity becomes dysregulated in chronic pain states.
Of the 9 participants included in the analysis, 7 showed an improved BPI average with 5 exhibiting increased relative alpha activity from pre-baseline to post-intervention. Of these, 4 participants demonstrated a significant upward trend between sessions performed and relative alpha (p < 0.05), indicating most participants who upregulated relative alpha experienced reductions in pain. This finding highlights the potential for neurofeedback approaches that target specific brainwave frequencies.

Brain Plasticity and Pain Processing

Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize and adapt—is both the mechanism by which chronic pain develops and potentially the key to addressing it.
Neuroplastic changes in brain structure and function are not only a consequence of chronic pain but are involved in the maintenance of pain symptoms. Thus, promoting adaptive, treatment responsive neuroplasticity represents a promising clinical target.

In chronic pain states, specific brain regions show structural and functional changes.
This review discusses neuroplastic alterations in critical areas in the brain like the anterior cingulate cortex, insula, prefrontal cortex, primary (S1) and secondary (S2) somatosensory cortices, and thalamus. These regions exhibit gray matter decrease and changes in connectivity during chronic pain.
However, the same plasticity that contributes to pain persistence can potentially be harnessed for recovery.

Descending Pain Modulation

The brain has sophisticated systems for modulating pain signals from the body.
The PAG, which receives pain input from higher brain centers, processes and relays information to the RVM, which performs bidirectional pain modulation by either facilitating or inhibiting pain. Dysfunction in these descending modulatory circuits can lead to a loss of inhibitory control and increased pain facilitation.

When these natural pain control systems become impaired, the result can be persistent pain even without ongoing tissue damage.
Dysregulation within this system has been implicated in chronic pain conditions, highlighting the importance of understanding its mechanisms for developing targeted therapies.
This understanding has led to interest in approaches like LENS neurofeedback that may help restore balanced brain function.

How LENS Neurofeedback May Help

LENS neurofeedback was first developed in 1990 by Dr. Len Ochs, PhD, a clinical psychologist, as a way to improve treatment trends in brainwave sciences which reduced the number of total sessions needed to improve health.
This innovative approach works differently from traditional neurofeedback by using extremely low-energy signals to gently stimulate the brain’s natural ability to reorganize itself.

Low-energy neurofeedback system (LENS) delivers a weak electromagnetic signal to change the patient’s brain waves while they are motionless with their eyes closed. This type of neurofeedback has been used to treat traumatic brain injury, ADHD, insomnia, fibromyalgia, restless legs syndrome, anxiety, depression, and anger.
Many clients report experiencing relief from various symptoms, including chronic pain conditions.

The LENS Process and Pain Management

The Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) developed by Dr. Len Ochs (2006a) uses feedback in the form of a radio frequency carrier wave, administered at a positive offset frequency from the person’s own dominant EEG frequency.
This unique approach allows the brain to self-regulate without requiring active participation from the client.

Neurofeedback methodology proposes that by teaching self-regulation, a patient can reduce or even eliminate pain sensations. Researchers recommend the use of biofeedback/neurofeedback for pain management.
At NeuroBalance, many clients report noticeable improvements in their chronic pain symptoms after beginning LENS therapy.

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How LENS Works

LENS therapy sessions typically last just 3-4 minutes and require no conscious effort from the client. The system reads your unique brainwave patterns and provides extremely gentle feedback that helps the brain reorganize dysfunctional patterns. Many clients report feeling more relaxed and experiencing reduced pain symptoms within the first few sessions.

Clinical Outcomes and Success Rates

Clinical studies have shown promising results for LENS therapy across various conditions.
showed significant improvements (p < .0001) from beginning to end of treatment. After an average of only 20 treatments the mean average of patient symptom ratings (0-10) declined from 7.92 to 3.96, a 50% improvement. These results suggest that LENS may provide substantial relief for many individuals struggling with chronic symptoms.

Over 85% of people who have used the LENS have benefited significantly from it. Results can be seen quickly, often beginning within the first session, and are lasting.
At our Los Angeles location, more than 90% of our clients report feeling noticeable improvements in their chronic pain and other symptoms.

What Current Research Suggests

Recent research has expanded our understanding of how neurofeedback may support individuals with chronic pain.
This narrative review specifically aims to assess the effectiveness of neurofeedback, an emerging non-pharmacological intervention, on the management of chronic pain.
Multiple studies published in 2024 and 2025 have examined the potential benefits of various neurofeedback approaches.

The types of neurofeedback used in the studies considered include electroencephalographic (EEG) neurofeedback, infra-low frequency (ILF) neurofeedback, volitional limbic neuromodulation, SMR-based neurofeedback, alpha-wave neurofeedback, and rt-fMRI neurofeedback. These studies have shown promising results, with notable reductions in non-pain-related symptoms and pain relief in patients with chronic pain.

Alpha Wave Training and Pain Reduction

Specific brainwave frequencies appear to play important roles in pain processing.
Alpha training is usually used for the treatment of various diseases such as pain relief (by 9 Hz simulation), reducing stress and anxiety (by 10 and 30 Hz simulation), memory improvement, improving mental performance, and treatment of brain injuries (by 10.2 Hz simulation).
This research provides insight into how different frequencies might be targeted in neurofeedback approaches.

Approximately half of the studies used a protocol that reinforced alpha or sensorimotor rhythms and suppressed theta or beta activity. There are indications that neurofeedback in patients with chronic pain probably has short-term analgesic effects; however, the long-term effects are less clear.
These findings suggest that neurofeedback approaches targeting specific brainwave patterns may provide educational support for chronic pain management.

Long-term Benefits and Continued Improvement

One particularly encouraging aspect of LENS therapy is the potential for ongoing improvement even after sessions end.
One of the most encouraging aspects of LENS Neurofeedback is that clients often continue to see improvements even after their sessions have ended. This is due to the brain’s ongoing ability to reorganize and optimize its function based on the changes initiated during LENS treatment. Many clients report that their mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall well-being continue to improve in the weeks and months following their last session.

For chronic pain specifically, research indicates lasting benefits.
LENS Neurofeedback has been shown to provide long-term relief from the symptoms of chronic conditions such as migraines, PTSD, and chronic pain. By resetting dysfunctional brainwave patterns, LENS helps to alleviate the underlying neurological imbalances that contribute to these conditions. Clients often experience a significant reduction in symptoms, with many reporting continued improvement months or even years after their treatment has concluded.

The NeuroBalance Approach

At NeuroBalance in Los Angeles, we understand that chronic pain involves complex brain-body interactions that require specialized approaches. Our practitioner, Jon S. Haupers, is a certified LENS neurofeedback specialist with over 12 years of experience helping clients with various chronic conditions, including persistent pain syndromes.
LENS neurofeedback was first developed in 1990 by Dr. Len Ochs, PhD, a clinical psychologist, as a way to improve treatment trends in brainwave sciences which reduced the number of total sessions needed to improve health.
Jon trained directly with Dr. Ochs to provide this specialized form of neurofeedback.

Our approach recognizes that each person’s brain patterns are unique, requiring individualized assessment and treatment protocols. We begin with a comprehensive brainwave analysis to identify areas of dysfunction that may be contributing to chronic pain patterns. This assessment helps us understand how your specific brain activity relates to your pain experience and guides our treatment approach.

What Sets Our Approach Apart

Unlike traditional pain management approaches that focus primarily on symptoms, LENS neurofeedback works with the brain’s natural capacity for self-regulation and healing.
The LENS is a specific kind of neurofeedback that operates much more rapidly than “traditional neurofeedback” and has qualities that make it easier to use with people who are unable to sit still. With the LENS, the client doesn’t need to “do” anything, and there is nothing to learn. The typical session with the LENS lasts 3-4 minutes.

More than 90% of our Los Angeles clients report feeling noticeable improvements in their symptoms, often beginning within the first few sessions. We’ve observed particular success with clients experiencing various forms of chronic pain, including fibromyalgia, headaches, and neuropathic pain conditions. Our clients appreciate that LENS therapy is completely non-invasive and drug-free, working with the brain’s natural healing mechanisms rather than masking symptoms.

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Client Success Story

“Since starting LENS therapy I have had remarkable changes in only 2 months!! My chronic pain has significantly decreased, and I feel more like myself again. The sessions are so easy and relaxing—I can’t believe something so gentle could make such a difference.” – Heidi I., Los Angeles client

📍 NeuroBalance Los Angeles

Located in Mar Vista, serving clients throughout Southern California. Home visits also available.

4029 Alla Road, Los Angeles, CA 90066 • 424.625.5445

Central Sensitization and Neuroinflammation

One of the most significant discoveries in pain research over the past two decades has been the role of central sensitization in chronic pain. This phenomenon occurs when the central nervous system becomes hyperactive and overreacts to pain signals, essentially turning up the volume on pain without any actual tissue damage.

Understanding Central Sensitization

Central sensitization represents a phenomenon of synaptic plasticity and increased neuronal responsiveness in central pain pathways after painful insults
. This neuroplastic change explains why some individuals continue experiencing pain long after tissue healing is complete.

When central sensitization occurs, the brain essentially “learns” to be in pain. This creates several problematic changes:

• Normal sensations become painful (allodynia)
• Painful sensations become more intense (hyperalgesia)
• Pain spreads to areas beyond the original injury site
• Pain persists without ongoing tissue damage

The Role of Neuroinflammation

A characteristic feature of neuroinflammation is the activation of glial cells, such as microglia and astrocytes, in the spinal cord and brain, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines
. These immune cells in the brain, which normally protect neural tissue, become overactive in chronic pain states.

Recent studies suggest that central cytokines and chemokines are powerful neuromodulators and play a sufficient role in inducing hyperalgesia and allodynia. Sustained increase of cytokines and chemokines in the CNS also promotes chronic widespread pain that affects multiple body sites
.

How LENS Addresses Central Sensitization

The beauty of LENS neurofeedback therapy lies in its ability to address the brain changes that maintain chronic pain. Unlike approaches that focus solely on blocking pain signals, LENS helps restore normal brain function by:

• Reducing overactive brain areas involved in pain processing
• Promoting healthy brainwave patterns that support natural pain modulation
• Improving the brain’s ability to regulate inflammatory responses
• Restoring balance between excitatory and inhibitory neural networks

Our clinical experience in Los Angeles shows that when we help the brain return to more balanced patterns of activity, many clients experience significant reductions in central sensitization symptoms.

Breaking the Neuroinflammation Cycle

Increasing evidence shows that central sensitization is caused by neuroinflammation in the CNS
. This creates a vicious cycle where pain triggers neuroinflammation, which then amplifies pain signals, leading to more inflammation.

By addressing these underlying brain changes, LENS offers hope for individuals struggling with conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic widespread pain, and other centralized pain conditions where neuroinflammation plays a key role.

The Role of Stress and Emotional Factors

The relationship between stress, emotions, and chronic pain represents one of the most complex aspects of pain science. Research consistently shows that psychological factors don’t just influence how we experience pain—they can actually change brain structure and function in ways that perpetuate chronic pain.

The Bidirectional Pain-Stress Connection

Evidence suggests that pain and stress not only feed into but exacerbate each other through a “vicious cycle,” driven by overlapping physiological, cognitive, and social mechanisms, indicating mutually reinforcing dynamics between pain and stress
.

This creates several problematic cycles:

• Pain increases stress: Chronic pain activates stress response systems
• Stress amplifies pain: Stress hormones sensitize pain pathways
• Emotional changes: Both conditions affect mood and cognitive function
• Behavioral adaptations: Avoidance behaviors reinforce both stress and pain

Brain Networks Involved in Emotional Pain Processing

The amygdala, situated in the limbic region of the brain, plays a major role in emotion- and mood-related aspects of pain perception. Within the amygdala, specialized neuronal circuits integrate and evaluate sensory-affective information
.

Key brain areas involved in the stress-pain connection include:

How Emotions Change Pain Processing

Experiments have shown that negative emotions can reduce pain sensitivity in some cases, while in others they increase it. This paradoxical finding can be explained by the type of emotion that is elicited by the degree of arousal or threat
.

Several emotional factors significantly influence chronic pain:

• Fear-avoidance: Fear of pain leads to activity avoidance, creating deconditioning
• Catastrophizing: Magnifying pain threats increases pain intensity
• Depression: Creates changes in brain chemistry that amplify pain
• Anxiety: Heightens attention to pain signals

Stress Hormones and Pain Sensitivity

Chronic stress triggers persistent activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to elevated cortisol levels. While acute stress can temporarily reduce pain sensitivity through stress-induced analgesia, chronic stress has the opposite effect.

Chronic elevation of stress hormones:

• Increases inflammatory markers that sensitize pain pathways
• Disrupts natural pain-inhibiting systems
• Affects brain areas involved in pain modulation
• Impairs sleep, which further amplifies pain sensitivity

LENS and Emotional Regulation

One of the remarkable benefits many clients report with LENS neurofeedback is improved emotional regulation alongside pain reduction. This makes sense when we understand how interconnected these brain systems are.

LENS may help by:

• Reducing overactivity in stress-response brain areas
• Improving prefrontal cortex function for better emotional control
• Balancing neurotransmitter systems involved in both mood and pain
• Supporting healthy sleep patterns that benefit both emotional and pain processing

This integrated approach makes sense for clients dealing with conditions like anxiety and chronic pain or trauma-related pain conditions, where emotional and physical symptoms are deeply intertwined.

Brainwave Patterns in Different Pain Conditions

Understanding brainwave patterns in chronic pain has revolutionized our approach to treatment. Research shows that different types of chronic pain create distinct “signatures” in brain electrical activity that can be measured and potentially corrected through neurofeedback.

The Science of Brain Rhythms in Pain

Brain rhythms or brain oscillations refer to rhythmic fluctuations of neural mass signals recorded by electroencephalography (EEG). Brain oscillations are most prominent at frequencies between 1 and 100 Hz
.

The main brainwave frequencies and their typical functions include:

Common Brainwave Alterations in Chronic Pain

EEG studies have identified differential brain activity patterns in chronic pain sufferers compared to healthy controls, particularly within the alpha (8–13 Hz), theta (4–8 Hz), and beta (13–30 Hz) frequency bands, characterized by suppressed alpha power and distinct rhythmic fluctuation in the theta and beta bands. Several comprehensive reviews highlight suppressed alpha activity and increased beta and/or theta activity in chronic pain patients
.

Specific Patterns in Different Pain Conditions

Different types of chronic pain show distinct brainwave signatures:

Neuropathic Pain:
In neuropathic pain deafferentation might cause thalamic theta oscillations, which in turn entrain thalamocortical loops
. This creates abnormal rhythmic activity that can maintain pain signals even without peripheral input.

Fibromyalgia and Widespread Pain: Often shows elevated theta activity, suppressed alpha, and increased high-frequency beta. This pattern reflects both hypervigilance and compromised pain inhibition.

Headache and Migraine: May show specific patterns depending on phase (between attacks vs. during attacks), often with altered alpha rhythms and increased beta activity.

Chronic Back Pain: Frequently demonstrates suppressed alpha activity over sensorimotor areas and increased theta activity in frontal regions.

How LENS Targets Specific Brainwave Patterns

Unlike traditional neurofeedback that trains specific frequencies, LENS neurofeedback works by providing tiny feedback signals based on the brain’s dominant frequency at each moment. This allows the brain to self-organize and find more optimal patterns.

Research suggests effective neurofeedback protocols for chronic pain often focus on:

• Enhancing alpha activity:
  Most included studies used a neurofeedback protocol that enhanced alpha and/or SMR, while reducing theta and/or beta activity. Nine out of 16 studies using such a protocol reported a significant decrease in pain complaints
• Reducing excessive theta: Particularly in frontal areas associated with pain attention
• Modulating high beta: Especially patterns associated with hyperarousal and anxiety
• Supporting sensorimotor rhythms (SMR): These 12-15 Hz rhythms are associated with calm, focused states

Clinical Results with Brainwave Training

Recent studies demonstrate the potential for brainwave-based interventions in chronic pain.
EEG neurofeedback studies show modulation of resting-state relative alpha, high beta, and theta, with paired t-tests indicating significant increases in relative alpha following intervention
.

At our Los Angeles practice, we’ve observed that clients often experience improvements that correspond with these brainwave changes, including better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved pain management.

Integration with Traditional Pain Management

One of the most encouraging aspects of LENS neurofeedback is how well it integrates with conventional pain management approaches. Rather than replacing traditional treatments, LENS often enhances their effectiveness while potentially reducing the need for some interventions over time.

Complementing Medical Treatments

LENS neurofeedback works well alongside various medical interventions because it addresses the brain-based components of chronic pain that medications and procedures may not fully address. Many clients continue working with their medical team while adding LENS to their treatment plan.

Common integrations include:

• Pain medications: LENS may help optimize medication effectiveness and potentially reduce dosages over time
• Physical therapy: Better brain regulation can improve motor learning and reduce pain-related movement restrictions
• Injections and procedures: LENS can support the brain’s processing of pain relief from interventional treatments
• Surgery recovery: Neurofeedback may help prevent chronic pain development after surgical procedures

Enhancing Psychological Therapies

Psychological approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions can be significantly enhanced when combined with LENS neurofeedback.

CBT has a role in increasing endogenous opioids and decreasing inflammatory biomarkers like TNF-a and IL-6. CBT may induce changes in brain connectivity, influencing brain areas related to pain (PFC, ACC, amygdala, and insula)
.

Supporting Lifestyle Interventions

LENS can enhance the effectiveness of lifestyle approaches to pain management by improving the brain’s ability to benefit from these interventions:

• Exercise programs: Better brain regulation can reduce exercise-induced pain flares and improve motivation
• Sleep hygiene: LENS often improves sleep quality, which is crucial for pain management
• Stress management: Enhanced emotional regulation supports stress-reduction techniques
• Nutrition interventions: Reduced stress and better sleep can improve dietary compliance

Addressing Treatment-Resistant Pain

Many clients come to our Los Angeles practice after trying numerous conventional treatments with limited success. LENS may be particularly valuable for treatment-resistant pain because it addresses neuroplasticity changes that other approaches might not target.

Potential reasons LENS may help when other treatments haven’t:

• Directly addresses brain-based aspects of chronic pain
• Doesn’t require conscious effort or cognitive skills
• Can work even when pain has become independent of original injury
• Addresses multiple symptoms simultaneously (pain, mood, sleep)

Creating Comprehensive Care Plans

At MYNeuroBalance, we work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to create comprehensive, integrated care plans. This might include coordination with:

• Primary care physicians and pain specialists
• Physical therapists and occupational therapists
• Mental health professionals
• Integrative medicine practitioners
• Massage therapists and acupuncturists

We also offer complementary services like photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy and cognitive rehabilitation that can work synergistically with LENS for optimal results.

The key is finding the right combination of interventions for each individual’s unique presentation, whether that includes conditions like TBI-related pain, fibromyalgia, or other complex pain conditions.

Success Stories and Case Studies

The real-world impact of understanding chronic pain as a brain-based phenomenon becomes clear through client experiences. At NeuroBalance, we’ve witnessed remarkable transformations when people understand that persistent pain isn’t just “in their head” – it’s in their brain patterns, which can be optimized.

Sarah, a 42-year-old teacher, came to us after three years of chronic lower back pain that persisted despite normal MRI results. Her doctors couldn’t find structural damage, leaving her frustrated and feeling dismissed.
Research shows that participants who increase alpha activity often experience significant pain reduction
. After learning about central sensitization and beginning LENS neurofeedback therapy, Sarah began to understand why her pain persisted without injury.

Michael’s story illustrates the connection between stress and pain amplification. A software engineer experiencing chronic neck tension and migraines, he discovered through brainwave analysis that his pain patterns coincided with elevated stress-related beta activity.
EEG studies consistently show suppressed alpha power and increased beta activity in chronic pain patients
. By addressing both the pain processing and stress response patterns simultaneously, Michael experienced not only pain relief but improved focus and emotional regulation.

Lisa’s fibromyalgia case demonstrates the complexity of widespread pain conditions. Her widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances had persisted for five years.
Neurofeedback is proposed as a promising approach to modulate brain activity and positively influence pain perception through the brain’s neuroplasticity
. Through comprehensive brainwave training that addressed her sleep patterns, pain processing, and stress response, Lisa experienced what she describes as “getting her life back.”

What makes these stories particularly compelling is how clients often discover that addressing their brain patterns creates ripple effects throughout their health. David, who initially sought help for chronic shoulder pain, found that his anxiety symptoms and sleep quality improved alongside his pain reduction. This whole-brain approach reflects our understanding that pain, mood, and cognitive function are interconnected systems.

For veterans like Robert, understanding the connection between trauma and chronic pain proved transformational. His service-related back pain had become central to his identity and daily struggle.
Mobile neurofeedback proved feasible and effective among veterans with TBI, showing significant decreases in pain, anger, and sleep disturbance
. Through neurofeedback, Robert learned to separate his pain experience from his trauma response, allowing both to heal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can pain persist when doctors can’t find anything wrong?
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This is one of the most common questions we hear. When structural tests like MRIs or X-rays appear normal, it doesn’t mean the pain isn’t real – it means the pain is likely being generated and maintained by changes in how your brain processes signals. Central sensitization, neuroplastic changes, and altered brainwave patterns can all create very real pain experiences. Our LENS neurofeedback approach works directly with these brain-based mechanisms.

Note: Individual experiences vary. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding persistent pain symptoms.

What is LENS neurofeedback and how does it help with pain?
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LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) is a gentle, non-invasive approach that helps optimize brain function and reduce pain by addressing the underlying brainwave patterns associated with chronic pain. Unlike traditional neurofeedback, LENS uses very small energy signals to encourage the brain to reorganize itself naturally. Learn more about how LENS works and our approach to brain training for wellness.

Note: Individual experiences vary. LENS is not intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical concerns.

Can neurofeedback help if I also have anxiety or depression with my chronic pain?
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Absolutely. Chronic pain, anxiety, and depression often share similar brain patterns and frequently occur together. Many clients find that addressing the underlying brainwave patterns helps with all these concerns simultaneously. Our clients often explore support for anxiety symptoms and mood regulation alongside their pain management goals.

Note: Individual experiences vary. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional mental health treatment.

What happens during a LENS session for pain?
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Sessions are comfortable and relaxing. After initial assessment and brainwave mapping, you’ll simply sit comfortably while very small sensors monitor your brainwave activity. The LENS system provides gentle feedback to encourage optimal brain function. Most sessions last 30-45 minutes, and you can read, rest, or even close your eyes. Many clients find the sessions themselves calming. Learn more about getting started and what to expect.

Note: Individual experiences vary. Sessions are non-invasive and typically well-tolerated.

How many sessions might I need for chronic pain?
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Every person’s brain and pain patterns are unique, so session recommendations are always individualized. Many clients notice improvements within their first few sessions, though lasting changes typically develop over 10-20 sessions. More than 90% of our Los Angeles clients report noticeable improvements. We’ll work with you to develop a plan that makes sense for your specific situation and goals.

Note: Individual experiences vary significantly. Session recommendations are based on individual assessment and progress.

Is neurofeedback safe for people taking pain medications?
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LENS neurofeedback is non-invasive and generally well-tolerated alongside other treatments. Since it works by optimizing natural brain function rather than introducing substances, it can often complement existing pain management approaches. However, we always coordinate with your healthcare providers and encourage you to discuss any treatment changes with your prescribing physicians. We welcome working as part of your integrative wellness team.

Note: Always consult with your prescribing physicians before making any changes to medications or treatment plans.

Can neurofeedback help with other conditions besides pain?
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Many clients find that optimizing brain function creates improvements in multiple areas. People often explore neurofeedback support for focus and attention concerns, sleep quality, stress management, and overall brain wellness. Since the brain is interconnected, supporting optimal function in one area often benefits others. View our full range of client experiences to learn more.

Note: Individual experiences vary. We provide educational support and brain training, not medical treatment for specific conditions.

Do you offer consultations for people in the Los Angeles area?
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Yes! We’re conveniently located in Los Angeles and serve clients throughout the greater LA area including Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Venice, and Westwood. We offer free 15-minute phone consultations to discuss whether neurofeedback might be right for your situation. For those unable to travel, we also provide home-based sessions.

Note: Consultations are educational and informational. Clinical recommendations require comprehensive assessment.

Your Next Steps: Moving From Understanding to Action

Understanding why pain persists without injury is the first step toward reclaiming control over your health and well-being. Now that you know how the brain processes pain signals and how these patterns can become self-perpetuating, you have the knowledge to make informed decisions about your next steps.

If this information resonates with your experience – whether you’re dealing with unexplained persistent pain, seeking alternatives to medication-only approaches, or simply wanting to optimize your brain’s natural healing capacity – we encourage you to explore your options.
Research shows significant pre- to post-treatment improvements in pain intensity and related variables such as fatigue, sleep quality, anxiety, and depression
.

Your journey toward better brain health and pain management doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with a simple conversation. Our free 15-minute consultation allows you to discuss your specific situation, learn how neurofeedback might apply to your concerns, and get your questions answered without pressure or commitment.

During your consultation, we’ll discuss your unique pain patterns, any related concerns like sleep or mood challenges, and how our LENS neurofeedback approach might complement your existing wellness strategies. We believe in informed decision-making, so we’ll help you understand realistic expectations and timelines based on current research and our clinical experience.

Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or a loved one, whether you’re in the Los Angeles area or considering our home-based services, we’re here to provide education, support, and hope. Your brain’s capacity for positive change doesn’t diminish with time – and it’s never too late to explore new possibilities for healing and wellness.

Your Brain Wellness Journey

Understanding chronic pain as a brain-based phenomenon rather than simply a tissue-based problem opens doors to new possibilities for healing and recovery. The research is clear: when we address the underlying neurological patterns that maintain pain signals, we can create lasting positive changes that extend far beyond pain relief alone.

Your brain’s remarkable capacity for neuroplasticity means that the patterns maintaining your pain aren’t permanent. Through targeted approaches like LENS neurofeedback, you can work with your brain’s natural healing mechanisms to restore balance, optimize function, and reclaim your quality of life. The journey may require patience and commitment, but the destination – a brain working more optimally for you rather than against you – is worth the investment.

Whether you’re exploring options for anxiety support, looking to understand ADHD and brain function, seeking trauma recovery support, or interested in peak performance optimization, we’re here to provide educational resources, support, and hope for your brain wellness journey.

🌱 Take Your Next Step:

Learn more about getting started with NeuroBalance, explore our client testimonials, or browse our FAQ for more information about how neurofeedback might support your unique wellness goals.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. LENS neurofeedback is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual experiences may vary. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your health concerns and before making any changes to existing treatment plans.