Pain, Neuroplasticity and AI: Building the Next Generation of Self-Management

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sat down with Nora Rodden (more on her below) as she shares her personal journey from persistent pain to founding Nervana, a digital platform that leverages neuroscience and AI to help manage neuroplastic pain. This episode explores the mind-body connection, the role of neuroplasticity in chronic pain, and how technology can expand access to effective pain care. Nora had the solid clinical and lived experience credentials to be fronting this so it was great to have this conversation.Keywords neuroplastic pain, chronic pain, mind-body connection, AI in healthcare, pain management, neuroscience, digital health, Nervana app, pain education, mental healthChapters 00:00 Introduction to persistent pain and the nervous system01:57 Nora Rodden's personal journey from accident to recovery04:09 Understanding neuroplastic pain and the mind-body connection06:49 The clinical trial and the role of education in Nirvana12:08 How the Nirvana app integrates neuroscience and AI20:06 The role of AI in personalized pain management29:57 Guardrails, safety, and ethical considerations in AI health tools39:47 Future of AI and digital tools in pain care49:53 Nora's vision for Nirvana and closing thoughts ResourcesThe Nervana App https://www.trynervana.com/aboutNora Rodden story https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8-3Sg5TG6gHer article on Medium  https://medium.com/authority-magazine/becoming-pain-free-nora-rodden-of-nervana-on-how-to-alleviate-chronic-pain-7f43d6669edeAbout Nora:Nora Rodden is the Founder and CEO of Nervana, a digital health company that helps people better understand their brain–body connection and learn skills that may reduce the impact of chronic neuroplastic symptoms, such as pain, IBS, fatigue, migraines, sleep issues, and more. Based in San Francisco, she brings deep experience across biotechnology, healthcare strategy, operations, and digital health to Nervana. Before founding Nervana, Nora led strategy and operations at Bay Area biotech startups, Addition Therapeutics and Alector. She created Nervana after recovering from years of chronic back pain, digestive issues, and insomnia through a nervous system recovery approach. Nora is passionate about chronic symptom recovery, neuroscience, women’s health, patient empowerment, and reducing the stigma around mind-body approaches. Outside of work, she is a trained yoga teacher and enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and friends. Nora holds an MS in Biotechnology from Harvard University, an MBA from Harvard Business School, and a BS in Biology from Cornell University.Disclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I speak to Emily Johnson (The arthritis Foodie) about her decade-long journey living with seronegative arthritis, exploring her diagnosis, management strategies, and how lifestyle changes complement medical treatment. This episode offers practical insights for living well with chronic arthritis. I was delighted to contribute not only to Emily's second book but also to her membership program that she now runs. Check out the details below.  Keywordsarthritis, chronic pain, lifestyle medicine, nutrition, pain management, autoimmune disease, gut health, mental health, patient advocacy, natural strategies Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emily Johnson's Arthritis Journey04:08 Early Symptoms and Diagnosis Challenges08:22 Understanding Arthritis as a Whole-Body Condition10:14 Gaps in Medical Support and Self-Management17:11 The 2018 Flare and Turning Point20:17 Building a Natural and Evidence-Based Approach24:33 Diet, Triggers, and Long-Term Management32:40 Sleep, Stress, and Lifestyle Strategies39:02 Understanding Persistent Pain and Brain Involvement47:12 Creating Resources: Books and Community54:09 Living Well with Arthritis: Love and Self-Care01:00:24 Emily's Mission and Future Plans  ResourcesLive Well with Arthritis course & coaching programme: https://www.livewellwitharthritis.com/waitlistLive Well with Arthritis podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2pRHO0ZKyqnkd3ig6YgCHFInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arthritisfoodieEmily’s website: https://arthritisfoodie.com/Her books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Emily-Johnson/author/B08V55TBNJ?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueWho is Emily Johnson?Emily Johnson is a bestselling author, writer, content and recipe creator, and coach. She is the founder of Arthritis Foodie and of the Live Well with Arthritis course and 12-week coaching programme, which brings together 15 expert contributors, including Prof Deepak Ravindran. She also hosts the Live Well with Arthritis podcast.Emily has had seronegative arthritis for 10 years. Through trial and error and scientific research, she has found ways to live better and live well with her arthritis, alongside her medication. Her aim is to help as many people as possible to do the same, through her coaching programme, podcast, books (Beat Arthritis Naturally and Eat Well with Arthritis), blog and further studies as a nutritionist in training.Why follow Arthritis Foodie?Arthritis Foodie is a lot bigger than an Instagram diary! It’s a community and a place to feel less alone, where questions are answered, comfort is given and positivity is shared. There are products to try, recipes to make, exercise tips to give a go, quotes for the days you need them, and much more.Both of Emily’s books have been signed off by rheumatologists and nutritionists. They include contributions from 12 different healthcare experts and draw on scientific research, with nourishing recipes, remedies and more.You can find Arthritis Foodie on Instagram at @ArthritisFoodie and in the FREE Arthritis Foodie Forum support group on Facebook.Disclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan MailDr Abrar Hussain is a Consultant Psychiatrist and Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, specialising in general adult and liaison psychiatry at the interface of physical and psychological health. He has worked with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) for around fifteen years, runs a specialist NHS FND service, is a member of the FND Hope UK Medical Expert Committee, advises the patient-led Neuro-log platform, and served as a Principal Investigator within the national CODES trial for dissociative seizures. He is a newly published author of the book "I can heal - A journey through FND" - Link belowIn this episode, I sit down to chat with a good friend and colleague, Abrar with another perspective towards a condition like FND that has pain as one of its main symptoms and where the neuroscience is starting to show lots of similarities with pain. We explore Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), emphasizing the importance of relational, biopsychosocial approaches, validation, and the integration of psychological and neurological care. keywordsFND, neurological disorder, biopsychosocial, validation, relational psychiatry, trauma, multidisciplinary care, mental health, pain management, patient-centered careChapters00:00 Introduction to FND and its challenges01:59 Dr. Hussain's background and motivation in FND04:01 Understanding the holistic approach to FND06:09 Explaining FND to patients: language and validation08:06 The concept of sense-making in FND09:22 Relational psychiatry and its application in FND11:57 Patient journey and systemic barriers13:27 Symptoms as expressions of the nervous system16:00 Screening for trauma and stress in FND patients20:04 The FND service in Berkshire and multidisciplinary pathways22:08 Role of primary care and community support23:56 Overlap between FND and persistent pain25:55 Mental health comorbidities in FND27:55 Psychological therapies: CAT and EMDR31:06 Dr. Hussain's upcoming book on FND33:02 Resources and online tools for FND awareness35:00 Final messages and hope for FND patientsResourcesDr Hussains website https://www.berkshirepsychiatrist.co.uk/https://www.drabrarhussain.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-abrar-hussain-b2923747/His book: I can heal https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1065401507/ref=asc_df_1065401507?mcid=69c6ea6ec7f338ed939e6cf1831d0efe&th=1&psc=1&tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=799489365597&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4928001865647588019&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9045969&hvtargid=pla-2503325594760&psc=1&hvocijid=4928001865647588019-1065401507-&hvexpln=0&gad_source=1Disclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I interview Professor Peter O'Sullivan about his pioneering work in cognitive functional therapy (CFT) for persistent musculoskeletal pain. We explore the science, philosophy, and clinical application of CFT, emphasizing hope, confidence, and a biopsychosocial approach to pain management.Peter is a John Curtin Distinguished Professor at the School of Allied Health Sciences at Curtin University, and a practicing Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist. CFT has demonstrated efficacy in numerous clinical trials, including a recent landmark trial published in The Lancet (restorebackpain.com). With his team he has published more than 372 scientific papers. With his team Peter has developed a social enterprise to support clinician training in cognitive functional therapy called evoolvepaincare.academy. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Peter O'Sullivan and his work02:18 Peter's journey from traditional physiotherapy to CFT06:44 The shift from pathology-focused to person-centered care09:01 Core principles of cognitive functional therapy12:10 The patient journey and clinical process in CFT17:30 The importance of time and relationship in effective care23:07 Key findings from the Restore Trial26:27 Mediators and moderators of treatment success28:48 The role of movement and confidence in recovery36:33 Differentiating CFT from other psychological approaches44:40 Building clinician skills and confidence in pain management52:58 Training, implementation, and global dissemination of CFT01:00:57 The future of pain science and research01:06:09 Final message of hope and empowerment for patientsResourcesEvolve Pain Acadmy: https://evoolvepaincare.academy/Socia mediahttps://www.instagram.com/evoolvepaincareacademy/https://www.facebook.com/evoolvepaincare.academy/https://www.linkedin.com/company/evoolvepaincareacademy/Dr Rangan Chatterjee Podcast: https://drchatterjee.com/how-to-break-free-from-chronic-pain-and-reclaim-your-life-with-professor-peter-osullivan/Restore Back pain Trial: https://www.restorebackpain.com/Linkedin link hereDisclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, i got the opportunity to interview a person I hugely admire. He is  the person most responsible for putting Functional Neurological Disordeer (FND) on the scientific map. Professor Jon Stone is Professor of Neurology at the University of Edinburgh. Since 1999, he has published over 400 papers, built the world's most widely used patient resource for FND — neurosymptoms.org — and led on international diagnostic criteria.As you may know, FND is a real, disabling, neurological condition. It affects how the brain processes and generates movement, sensation and — critically for this audience — pain. It is not feigning. It is not malingering. And for many patients, it is treatable. keywordsFND, pain, neurology, diagnosis, treatment, neuroimmune, predictive processing, multidisciplinary rehabkey topicsFND as a neurological condition affecting movement and sensationThe overlap between FND and chronic pain conditionsDiagnostic signs like Hoover sign and tremor entrainmentThe neuroimmune and predictive processing models of FNDMultidisciplinary approaches to FND and pain managementChapters00:00 Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)03:15 The Intersection of FND and Pain07:44 Defining FND in Modern Medicine11:28 Clinical Signs and Diagnosis of FND13:29 FND as a Software Problem15:52 Prevalence of Chronic Pain in FND Patients19:08 Mechanisms Behind FND and Pain Overlap21:10 Reconciling CRPS and FND23:08 Understanding the Overlap in Pain Conditions30:26 Predictive Processing and Its Role in FND35:58 Interdisciplinary Approaches to FND Treatment43:31 The Role of Pain Physicians in Managing FND46:15 Resources for Learning About FND Resourcesneurosymptoms.org - https://neurosymptoms.orgInternational FND Society - https://fndhope.orgFND in chronic pain clinics: 2023 -  DOI: 10.1111/ene.15892 CRPS and FND : 2018:  Popkirov S, Hoeritzauer i, Colvin L, doi:10.1136/jnnp-2018 318298 Pain and FND 2024 review:  Steinruecke M, Mason I, Keen M, et al. J doi:10.1136/jnnp-2023 332810 Migraine and FND 2025 review:  https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcaf288 Disclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan MailIn this episode , I sit down with good friend and colleague Rodger Duckworth and explore one of the most fascinating frontiers in pain medicine—the intersection of trauma, touch, physiology, psychology and healing.Rodger has spent more than three decades evolving from conventional physiotherapy into a practitioner integrating neuroscience, autonomic regulation, body psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR and much more. he is truly one of a kind and his thinking and treatment style reflects that personalised approach. Some of these ideas may challenge your assumptions. Others may resonate deeply with your own experience. Drop a comment and let us know how this conversation felt to you. keywordstrauma, holistic health, somatic experiencing, PNIE, fascia, manual therapy, healing, pain management, integrative medicinekey topicsThe influence of trauma and past experiences on painThe role of fascia and fascial therapy in healingThe connection between mind, body, and spirit in healthThe importance of therapeutic relationship and trustThe concept of PNIE (psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinology) and its relevanceThe use of touch and neuroaffective touch in therapyThe impact of developmental trauma and early life experiencesThe integration of Zen philosophy and mindfulness in healingThe evolving landscape of holistic and integrative medicinePractical advice for clinicians working with complex trauma and painChapters00:00 The Complexity of Pain02:26 Roger Duckworth's Journey in Physiotherapy06:28 Mind-Body Connection and Personal Healing09:24 The Mind-Body Dualism Debate11:33 Understanding the PNIE System14:30 Somatic Experiencing and Its Relation to PNIE20:01 Neuroaffective Touch and Therapeutic Touch29:28 The Importance of Fascia in Health35:48 Manual Therapy: Benefits and Limitations41:49 Creating Safe Spaces for Survivors50:23 The Influence of Zen Philosophy on Healing55:47 Hope for the Future of Integrative MedicineLinks:The GrangeRD physio website: https://www.rdphysio.com/Disclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down to chat with Jeannie Di Bon—movement therapist, educator, founder of The Zebra Club, author, and creator of the Integral Movement Method. Through both professional expertise and lived experience, she has helped thousands of people rethink movement not as something to fear, but as a pathway towards confidence, resilience and recovery.. When most people think about hypermobility, they imagine someone who's simply very flexible. But for many people, hypermobility comes with persistent pain, fatigue, autonomic symptoms, gastrointestinal problems, anxiety, neurodivergence, repeated injuries, and years of being misunderstood.Today we're exploring a movement that is changing that narrative.keywordshypermobility, EDS, Zebra Club, pain management, movement therapy, neurodivergence, chronic pain, patient support, NHS, integrative movementkey topicsHypermobility and EDS diagnosis journeyThe Integral Movement Method and its principlesThe role of breath, proprioception, and nervous system regulationCommunity support through the Zebra ClubImpact of misconceptions and the importance of early diagnosisThe overlap between hypermobility, neurodivergence, and mental healthChallenges within NHS pathways and the need for integrated careResearch and future directions in hypermobility and pain managementChapters00:00 Understanding Hypermobility and Its Challenges03:01 Jeannie Di Bon's Personal Journey with EDS05:58 The Birth of the Integral Movement Method08:55 The Zebra Club: A Community for Hypermobility12:01 The Role of Education and Awareness in EDS14:49 The Biopsychosocial Model in Pain Management18:04 Innovative Approaches to Movement Therapy20:56 The Importance of Breath and Proprioception23:52 Challenges in Traditional Rehabilitation for Hypermobility26:57 The Evolving Landscape of EDS Awareness29:58 Future Directions for Hypermobility Care33:38 Fragmentation and Community Support34:45 Hypermobility and Neurodivergence36:41 Understanding Misconceptions in EDS38:46 The Role of Clinicians in EDS Care43:00 Community Collaboration with Clinical Models48:30 Transformative Patient Stories51:34 Future Directions in EDS ResearchResourcesWebsiteThe Zebra Club : https://thezebra.club/Disclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan MailSummaryIn this episode of Pain Speak, Deepak Ravindran and Dr. Rani Bora explore the concept of mental wealth, emphasizing the importance of cultivating mental health beyond merely reducing symptoms. They discuss the intersection of mental health and chronic pain and the evolving perspectives on mental health treatment. The conversation delves into the definitions of mental wealth, the mind-body-spirit connection, and the trauma-informed paradigm, while also addressing the challenges of nervous system dysregulation and the impact of medication on mental health. In this conversation, Rani and Deepak explore the complexities of deprescribing medications, particularly in the context of pain management. They discuss the challenges patients face when trying to come off medications, the role of trauma in pain perception, and the importance of understanding the kindling effect.  Additionally, they touch on the role of spirituality in well-being and the importance of empowering patients in their healing journey.TakeawaysMental health should focus on cultivating mental wealth, not just symptom reduction.Chronic pain is deeply connected to mental health and trauma.The conventional approach often focuses on fixing people rather than empowering them.Mental wealth encompasses mind, body, and spirit, not just the mind-body connection.The trauma-informed paradigm shifts the focus from 'what happened to you' to 'what happened inside of you.'Nervous system dysregulation can manifest in various physical and psychological symptoms.Medication tapering must be approached with caution to avoid dysregulation.Deprescribing can be challenging, especially for long-term users.The kindling effect can make withdrawal more difficult for some patients.Recovery can begin before symptoms fully resolve.Spirituality plays a crucial role in overall well-being and healing.Mental health recovery involves more than just symptom reduction.Keywordsmental health, mental wealth, chronic pain, trauma, resilience, holistic psychiatry, nervous system dysregulation, medication, healing, well-being deprescribing, pain management, trauma, medication withdrawal, kindling effect, diagnostic labels, recovery, spirituality, mental health, holistic psychiatryDr Rani Bora's Clinic is both online and Brick and mortar and she can be found at https://holisticpsychiatryclinic.com/Disclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan MailSummaryIn this episode of Pain Speak, I speak to Prof. Sunil Kumar  and discuss the pressing challenges in healthcare related to long-term conditions and the concept of 'waiting well.' We explore the journey of Dr. Kumar from anesthesia to becoming a thought leader in lifestyle medicine, emphasizing the importance of health capacity, resilience, and social connection. We delved into the significance of prehabilitation in preparing patients for surgery and the need for a shift from compliance to patient ownership in health management. In this conversation, Sunil discusses the importance of behavior change, autonomy, and motivation in healthcare. He emphasizes the need to address burnout among healthcare professionals, particularly junior doctors, and shares insights on developing resilience through personalized approaches. Sunil advocates for lifestyle medicine as a foundational element in healthcare, aiming for a shift from reactive disease management to proactive health creation. He highlights the significance of auditing one's life and integrating purpose and passion into daily routines to combat burnout and enhance well-being.TakeawaysThe growing number of people living with long-term conditions is a significant challenge for healthcare systems.Waiting for treatment can be transformed into an opportunity for building strength and resilience.Lifestyle medicine is an evidence-based clinical discipline, not just lifestyle advice.Health should be defined as the capacity to live the life you want, not merely the absence of disease.Social connection is a critical determinant of health, with evidence showing its impact on longevity.Prehabilitation is an underutilized therapeutic window that can improve patient outcomes before surgery.Empowering patients through small, manageable changes can lead to significant health improvements.Behavior change requires capability, opportunity, and motivation, as outlined in the COM-B model. Lasting change is built on autonomy, competence, and connection.People resist being changed, not change itself.Lifestyle medicine should be a first-line therapy, not an add-on.The future of healthcare should focus on proactive health creation.Keywordshealthcare, lifestyle medicine, prehabilitation, chronic conditions, social connection, patient empowerment, waiting well, health capacity, resilience, behavior change behavior change, autonomy, motivation, burnout, healthcare professionals, junior doctors, resilience, lifestyle medicine, clinician well-being, health systemsFind more about Dr Sunil Kumar at https://drsunilkumar.co.uk/Disclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Pain Speak, I speak to one of my patients, Chantel, who very kindly agrred to share her story. Chantal shares her journey living with persistent neck and back pain, exploring how understanding, targeted interventions, and self-management strategies led to her recovery. This episode highlights the importance of patient responsibility, the role of neuroscience in pain, and practical tips for managing chronic pain.keywordschronic pain, neck pain, back pain, pain management, neuroscience, self-care, recovery, patient empowermentkey topicsLiving with chronic pain since early 20sGradual onset of neck pain and its impactMRI findings and diagnosis of nerve narrowingThe importance of understanding pain mechanismsRole of targeted injections and interventionsSelf-care, mindfulness, and body awarenessManaging fear and the pain fear cycleThe significance of patient responsibility and knowledgeRecovery as a non-linear process with ups and downsThe impact of pain on mental health and well-beingkey frameworksPain Science EducationNeuroplasticity and PainThe Pain Fear CycleSelf-Management and ResponsibilityChapters00:00Introduction to Pain and Recovery01:15Chantel's Life Before Pain02:52The Onset of Neck Pain05:58Seeking Medical Help09:41Understanding Pain and Diagnosis09:54Impact of Pain on Daily Life12:38Mental Health and Pain Management15:03Exploring Treatment Options18:21Immediate Effects of Treatment21:29Confronting Pain: A Personal Journey24:21Mind-Body Connection: Understanding Pain Responses27:44Taking Responsibility for Health and Wellbeing30:09Managing Fear and Embracing Action34:03Shifting Perspectives: Aging and Body Awareness35:23Understanding Neuroplastic Pain37:18Messages of Hope for Pain SufferersResourcesDeepak Ravindran's Book on Pain ManagementAlan Gordon's Book on Pain ScienceGuest linksLinkedInInstagramDisclaimer:This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional. Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have.If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show.The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch:Twitter: @deepakravindra5Instagram: drdeepakravindranWebsite: www.deepakravindran.co.ukLinktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindranYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain ClinicOrder a copy of the Pain Free Mindset hereFor Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...