National Survey Reveals Nearly Half of US Adults Experience Unexplained or Treatment-Resistant Pain and Illness

The Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms will hold its national conference September 28-30 in Boulder, Colorado, where medical professionals will address what new research identifies as a widespread health crisis affecting nearly half of American adults. According to a first-of-its-kind national survey to be presented at the conference, 40% of people who visit doctors for symptoms experience pain or illness that is either unexplained or not responding to conventional treatment, with neuroplastic causes likely responsible for the majority of these cases.

Neuroplastic symptoms result from stress-induced changes in nerve pathways within the brain rather than from injury or disease. These conditions include fibromyalgia, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic back pain, many long COVID cases, and dozens of other disorders. Dr. David Clarke, president of the ATNS, emphasized the significance of the findings, stating that this survey addresses critical questions affecting a substantial portion of the population seeking medical care.

The conference will feature more than 40 leading experts discussing Neuroplastic Recovery Therapy, an evidence-based, biopsychosocial approach that focuses on uncovering stress, trauma, and unrecognized emotions that contribute to symptom development. This method enables patients to gain control over their symptoms without relying on drugs, surgery, or expensive treatments. Dr. Clarke noted that this therapy is supported by gold-standard scientific research from randomized trials published in top medical journals such as the American Medical Association Psychiatry journal.

The implications of this research are profound for both healthcare providers and patients. Traditional medical approaches often fail to address the root causes of neuroplastic conditions, leading to unnecessary procedures, medication dependence, and significant healthcare costs. By shifting focus to brain-based mechanisms, healthcare professionals can offer safer, more affordable, and more effective treatments. The ATNS, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, aims to end the chronic pain epidemic through increased awareness, improved diagnosis, and expanded access to neuroplastic treatment methods. More information about their work can be found at https://symptomatic.me.

This conference represents a critical step forward in addressing a major public health issue that affects millions of Americans. The research presented could transform how medical professionals understand and treat chronic pain conditions, potentially reducing healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes across the country.