The Psychophysiologic Disorders Association (PPDA) has announced its rebranding as the Association for Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms (ATNS), adopting the new brand and social banner of Symptomatic. This significant change marks a renewed focus on scientific advancements in treating chronic pain and illness, offering an evidence-based approach to millions worldwide affected by neuroplastic symptoms. Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt, change, and heal, is at the core of the organization's mission. ATNS aims to educate practitioners and patients about neuroplastic symptoms, which are generated by the brain in response to past or present stress. These symptoms encompass a wide range of conditions, including chronic primary pain, migraines, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, and post-viral syndromes.
David D. Clarke, MD, President of ATNS, emphasized the importance of this rebranding, stating, "Our mission has always been to ensure people receive the right kind of care. Too often, patients are treated for symptoms without considering the underlying neuroplastic causes — leading to ineffective outcomes. We are here to change that narrative." The impact of neuroplastic symptoms is substantial, with an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide suffering from chronic pain or illness not caused by disease or injury. Four out of ten people seen by physicians suffer from these neuroplastic conditions. ATNS's focus on sharing new scientific approaches to treating these conditions offers hope for those who have long struggled with unexplained pain or illness.
Howard Schubiner, MD, ATNS board member and Clinical Professor at Michigan State University, highlighted the significance of this approach: "The understanding of neuroplastic symptoms represents a significant leap in the medical community's approach to chronic pain. By recognizing that the brain can generate pain in response to stress rather than structural issues, we can provide more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments." The organization's goals include educating the public, advancing scientific research, empowering practitioners, supporting patients, collaborating across disciplines, and advocating for policy change. These objectives reflect ATNS's commitment to transforming the understanding and treatment of neuroplastic symptoms.
Rebecca Kennedy, MD, board member and Family Medicine Physician, expressed enthusiasm for the organization's new direction: "Our focus on neuroplastic symptoms brings hope for more effective, compassionate care for those who need it most. This new chapter is about growth, empowerment, and transformation — not just for our organization, but for the countless individuals we serve." The rebranding of ATNS represents a significant step forward in the field of chronic pain and illness treatment. By focusing on neuroplastic symptoms and promoting evidence-based approaches, the organization aims to offer new hope and more effective treatments to millions of people worldwide who suffer from these conditions.
As the medical community continues to evolve its understanding of chronic pain and illness, ATNS's work in educating practitioners and patients about neuroplastic symptoms could lead to more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatments. This shift in approach has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by these conditions, offering a path to healing rather than just symptom management. For more information about the Association for Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms and its mission, interested individuals can visit Symptomatic.Me.
