Why does pain hurt so much - and why does it sometimes linger long after the body should have healed? Research shows that pain is not just a signal from the body, but a complex experience where body, brain and mind interact. In some cultures, people with physical injuries live without chronic pain, while others struggle with pain with no obvious findings on a scan.
When the body becomes hypersensitive
In the minibook The enigma of pain we explore both acute and chronic pain. We look at how the nervous system can become hypersensitive and why thoughts, emotions and expectations can amplify or dampen the pain experience. You'll hear stories from research - like the man who stepped on a nail but only realised he wasn't injured when the boot was removed - and you'll get an insight into how treatment is about much more than medicine.
So what can make a difference?
We also dive into the methods that research shows can make a difference: Pain Reprocessing Therapy, focusing, body therapy, TRE and functional neurotraining. And we look at how meaning, relationships and hope can be just as important as techniques and exercises.
The enigma of pain is written for those who live with pain or who work with people in pain. It provides knowledge, perspective and concrete tools to understand - and live better - with pain.
