The Chronic Pain Experience Podcast

If you have chronic pain, you have probably felt stuck in a frustrating loop: one treatment, no lasting relief, more tests, more answers that do not quite match what your body is doing. One of the biggest reasons that happens is simple, but not always obvious.

Not all pain is created the same. Two people can describe the same kind of pain sensation, yet the underlying cause can be completely different. And when we do not understand the type of pain, we often end up chasing treatments that are unlikely to help.

Modern pain science...

​​If you’ve been searching for ways to reduce chronic pain and feel like you’ve tried everything—medication, procedures, therapies—but the relief never lasts, this guide is for you. In the final episode of a three-part series from Pain 2 Possibilities, I will walk through why pain becomes stubborn and, more importantly, what you can do about it. Below I’ll summarize and expand on this evidence-based approach so you have a clear, practical plan to reduce chronic pain and reclaim more of your life.

1) Why this matters: chronic pain is not just about tissue

Living with chronic pain is a daily challenge that no one chooses. It brings with it a complex mix of struggle, frustration, and often isolation. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why do I hurt so much?”, you are not alone. Understanding the basic science behind chronic pain is the first step toward reclaiming control over your life. This article dives deep into the essentials of chronic pain, explaining why pain can persist long after an injury has healed and what you can do to begin the journey toward recovery.

As a chronic pain recove...

Living with chronic pain can feel overwhelming and isolating, especially when despite your best efforts, your pain seems to be getting worse instead of better. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why is my pain getting worse?” you’re not alone. There are many factors at play that can keep you stuck in a cycle of pain, and understanding these is the first step to reclaiming control over your life.

In this article, inspired by insights from pain recovery coach Deana Tsiapalis of Pain 2 Possibilities, we’ll explore why chronic pain can persist and worsen, the gaps i...

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why am I in so much pain – even when I’ve been doing all the things I’ve been told to do?” You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive deep into understanding why you hurt with the neuroscience of chronic pain. Discover how your brain and nervous system play a critical role in how pain is created and amplified—often long after an injury has healed.We’ll break down complex pain science into simple, relatable language and explore why pain persists even after doing all the things (medications, surgery, procedure...

In this episode of the Chronic Pain Experience Podcast, host and Chronic Pain Recovery Coach, Deana Tsiapalis, delves into the complexities of chronic pain recovery and the systemic barriers faced by patients. Following the tragic death of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Deana explores the frustrations many feel toward the healthcare system, particularly issues like outdated treatment models, high rates of claim denials, and prolonged wait times for coverage approvals. Deana also discusses the importance of patient education and self-advocacy, unveiling the top five challenges chronic pain warriors face in securing insurance coverage and offering resources and...

In the relentless pursuit of relief from chronic pain, fascia—a vast, connective tissue network—often goes unnoticed. Yet, symptoms like deep aches, stiffness, and tender, sensitive areas may all stem from fascial dysfunction. By understanding how pain works and how our biology responds to it, we can uncover strategies to shift pain patterns and foster healing. In this episode, we explore the profound connection between fascia and chronic pain, while sharing practical techniques to improve fascial health at home. Tune in to learn how understanding your body can be the first step toward reclaiming your life from...

After a catastrophic injury we rely on the brilliance of our allopathic model. When the condition becomes chronic or in the case of a life long disability, our allopathic model falls short. Join Chanda Hinton and myself as we discuss the Chanda Center in Colorado and the amazing work her centre is doing to make integrative care more accessible to those living with spinal injuries, Multiple Sclerosis, chronic conditions and so much more!

You can learn more about Chanda and all the amazing work she is doing at chandacenter.org.

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Chronic Headache & Migraine, Alexandria Levin

Living with the invisible reality of chronic pain is a challenge many struggle to articulate. Janna Kimel and her team at The Chronic Pain Project are amplifying these voices, using art and storytelling to bring the hidden stories of chronic pain to light. This powerful journey offers deep insights, not just for those enduring the pain, but also for those who wish to understand it on a more profound level. For more information, visit www.chronicpainproject.org.

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Living with chronic pain is hard enough but add insomnia and you have a recipe for sleepless nights, increased pain, anxiety and/or depression and the list goes on. If we’re not sleeping, we’re not healing. Join me in this episode as we explore the deep overlap between chronic pain and insomnia.

​The Sleep Rescue Bundle – Create your own sleep strategy at your own pace (without the pricey coaching fees). Click HERE to learn more about my Sleep Rescue Bundle.

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In this episode I discuss how our current model of chronic pain care is struggling to keep up with the new science of pain. Where chronic pain warriors are stuck in a model of care that is outdated and ineffective for chronic pain specifically (but great for acute care). From the lack of mandatory chronic pain curriculum for our physicians to insurance policies locked on the old science of pain, we have some work to do.

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Ecology concept. Rising sprout on dry ground.

Life with chronic pain often leads to a rabbit hole of seeking new treatments, new doctors and any sense of hope that life will get better. Live with pain long enough and that rabbit hole becomes deep and wide, where the belief of self and of your capabilities diminishes..to the point of believing that you and the body you live in, are truly broken. In this episode I am joined by Chana Studley to discuss some key pain facts related to improving pain:

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Isolation that comes from Chronic pain can come in different forms such as isolation from others, disconnectedness from ourselves and touch starvation. In this episode I sit down with Kat Anna to talk about the biological, psychological and social implications of touch starvation, chronic pain and it’s impact on the nervous system. More importantly we discuss the important work to help you move through it all.

Touch releases oxytocin which helps to ease us into more of a relaxed state which ultimately helps to bring us out of fight/flight or freeze, block the pain signals th...

Living with chronic pain can often be an isolating journey, but research consistently highlights the transformative power of community in improving the quality of life for individuals facing this challenge. The latest studies underscore the vital role that a culture of safety and connectedness plays in positively influencing the lived experience of chronic pain.

By fostering a supportive community, we not only share the weight of our individual struggles but also amplify our collective strength. The sense of belonging and understanding within a community can significantly reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression associated with...

Opioid induced constipation coupled with chronic pain can make life both unbearable and unpredictable. Join me as I sit down with Nicole Hemmenway from the Us Pain Foundation and Megan Filloramo to talk about opioid induced constipation, the stigma and the solutions as a part of the International Opioid Constipation Awareness Day.

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Looking for a unique community to create meaningful connections with others who are experiencing much the same as you are inside a safe space away from the confines of Facebook? Click HERE to join our Free Cwtch Community.

Ecology concept. Rising sprout on dry ground.

In today’s episode we are talking about restoring confidence for a life well lived despite the relentless grip of chronic pain.

This pain extends beyond the physical, shaping an enduring emotional battle. It gradually wears away at your self-esteem, causing you to question your value and your capacity to lead a gratifying life.

We’ll explore how restoring your confidence can be one of the keys to unlocking a life of purpose, connection, and joy. We’ll address the common obstac...

Pain is a universal human experience, whether it’s physical, emotional, or social. It can be all-encompassing, overwhelming, and at times, seem insurmountable often leading to a narrative of suffering. But what if we could change the narrative on how we perceive pain? Pain Research and countless stories from individuals who have faced extraordinary challenges, battled pain in its many forms, and emerged on the other side is showing us that perspective matters.

In this episode, I’m joined by Fraser Brown, a chronic pain warrior, podcaster, and advocate. Together, we’ll explore Fraser’s journe...

In this episode I sit down with the esteemed Dr. Harvey Chochinov to discuss dignity and person centered care for both end of life and for the lived experience with pain. Join us as we explore the human experience, the importance of perception, purpose, meaning, and hope in maintaining dignity in care.

If you would like to learn more about what we do at The Change Pain Academy you can do so HERE.

If you would like to access the Chronic Pain Warrior’s Guide To Better Doctors Appointments’ Click HERE...

Join Anne Schober and myself as we discuss her latest book she co-authored called ‘Invincible – Finding the Light Beyond the Darkness of Chronic Illness.‘ We explore Anne’s experience with pain and living with an invisible illness along with her inspiration in writing the book.

If you are curious to learn more about chronic pain and how to find your way back to living well despite the pain, check out how we can support you at www.pain2possibilities.com

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A decline in our executive functioning (aka getting stuff done) is a direct result of where and how our pain is processed. In this episode Carrie Bonnett and I explore some of the tips and tools to help you get things done even when your brain and the pain are suggesting otherwise.

Join us as we do a deeper dive into chronic pain science, strategies and skills to help you better manage the pain inside The Change Pain Academy.

During our annual Willow Tree Summit, our chronic pain warriors sit down with me in ‘Conversations from the couch’ to talk about the information shared inside the summit. Our Summits aim to hear from a variety of experts…those who live with pain and those that serve them.

Life with chronic pain often leaves you with a deep sense of grief though the loss of limb or the loss of the life you once had, having to relearn as you navigate the world around you while adapting to the changes you are left to deal with often with little to no guidance.

In this episode we’ll delve into the key components of grief as it relates to the chronic pain experience. Join us as we explore the interconnections and commonalities between the two as we offer insights and tools to in...

In this episode I sit down with chronic pain warrior, trauma survivor and Cwtch co-founder Barb Thornton as we explore lessons learned inside The 2023 Willow Tree Summit on Trauma and Pain.

We like to call these segments of the Willow Tree Summit ‘Conversations from the couch’ where I interview warriors about their perspectives and explore their insights into life with pain.

When you get a chronic diagnosis, the positive messaging (and the hope) goes out the window and leaves the warrior feeling unsure of what’s to come.

In this episode, I offer a different perspective on your capabilities and how impressive (and complicated) your body and brain truly are.

In this episode I am joined by board certified Wellness Coach Jessica Hill Powell to discuss elimination diets. In this conversation we unpack how an elimination diet helps to reduce inflammation which in turn helps to improve the amount of pain you feel. You will learn about foods that trigger inflammation, how to eliminate them and the importance of reintroducing them slowly.

If you would like to learn more about Pain 2 Possibilities or all the amazing things we are doing inside The Change Pain Academy, visit us at https://www.pain2possibilities.com...

One of the biggest questions we get inside The Change Pain Academy is when my pain gets worse, how do I know if I should go to the Doctor or if I can work through it at home? It can be really difficult differentiating between pain from an acute injury or pain that comes from the chronic state.

In this episode I give a brief explanation of the questions you can ask yourself to help determine if you stay or if you should go…to see the Doctor (thank you to The Clash for th...

In this episode I sit down with Kyira Wackett, Therapist and Trauma survivor, to discuss Shame and it’s impact on the lived experience of pain and trauma. This conversation comes from our Willow Tree Trauma And Chronic Pain Summit in 2023.

In this episode I sit down with Naturopath and Functional Medicine practitioner Dr Sarah White about working with chronic pain and unresolved trauma through a functional lens.

In this episode I am interviewed by the awe inspiring Peggy MacIntyre, recovered cocaine addict and sexual abuse survivor turned advocate inside her ‘Trauma To Triumph – How to Heal the Shame and Heartache of Incest and Sexual Abuse’ summit. In this session we talked about chronic pain, trauma and how the two collide amplifying the chronic pain experience.

In this episode I interview Dr. Teitelbaum, the worlds leading integrative specialist on Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia and long haul syndrome. We explore current gaps in our medical model, the four treatable areas of focus on chronic pain and much more.

In this episode I speak with Nathan Augeard (Physiotherapist, clinic owner and PhD candidate) about the role Physiotherapy plays in chronic pain care. We explore the power of re-framing fear of movement into something more meaningful, how patient centered care is missing in our current medical model and how physiotherapists (and Nathan’s research) are helping to remedy that… and so much more.

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In this episode of the 15 Minute Chronic Pain Experience podcast I talk about how anxiety and depression impacts pain and vice versa. I will also give you 10 things that you can do on your own to help mitigate the anxiety and the pain on those difficult days.