Narratives of embodied experiences - Therapy processes in Norwegian psychomotor physiotherapy

The aim of the study was to explore patients' narratives of embodied experiences through treatment courses of Norwegian psychomotor physiotherapy (NPMP). An NPMP specialist and two patients with chronic back pain participated in two long-term treatment courses. Research data were drawn from in-depth interviews and repeated video recordings with patients and physiotherapist. Reflective notes were written by patients. In order to study the relationship between narratives and bodily expressions in succeeding sessions, a three-step procedure was applied: identification of main types of narratives, identification of sub-themes and detailed analysis of selected part-processes. Patients gave meaning to back pain as an expression of long-lasting relational strain. Two main narrative patterns were identified: "Being in touch with'' and "Being detached from'' the body. The patients described the treatment course as "becoming an embodied subject'' changing their experience of back pain, their rhythm of breathing and sensation of legs. Change was based on the therapeutic relationship encouraging reflection on embodied experiences. The study showed how NPMP may assist the patient to develop potentially healing narratives and an improved sensation of their body by integrating a physical and a verbal therapy approach.