The Hidden Cause of Neck Pain, Headaches, & More: How to Break the Pain Loop - With Dr. Joe Damiani

Nov 17, 2025

Dr. Joe Damiani, a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in chronic pain, shares groundbreaking insights into neck pain, headaches, and their hidden causes. He explains how pelvic and glute dysfunction can lead to spinal misalignment, creating a chain reaction of pain. Discover how the nervous system interprets pain signals and the importance of curiosity in pain management. Dr. Joe also provides practical exercises for better posture and movement, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to break the pain loop.

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INSIGHT

Fascia Connects Distant Pain Patterns

Fascia links the pelvis to the neck, so restrictions low in the body can pull and create neck pain.
Fixing the local pain generator without addressing distant fascial pulls often leads to recurrence.

INSIGHT

Three Spinal Curves Work As A Unit

The spine's three curves act like shock absorbers and work together to dissipate load.
Poor pelvic or glute function disrupts these curves and creates a domino effect up to the neck.

ANECDOTE

Leaning Tower Of Pisa Analogy

Dr. Joe uses the 'leaning tower of Pisa' metaphor to explain a faulty spinal foundation causing recurrent pain.
He tests local fixes then zooms out to find distant drivers like hips or glutes that tilt the pelvis.

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Chronic pain can cause a lot of panic and frustration. And sadly, in the quest for relief, many folks are left without answers or a true root cause. Today, we’re going to unpack what’s really going on when you deal with recurring pain, specifically headaches, neck pain, and back pain. Our guest is here to help you identify some of the hidden culprits of pain to restore function and health.

On this episode of The Model Health Show, I’m sitting down with Doctor of Physical Therapy, Dr. Joe Damiani. Dr. Joe is passionate about helping folks retrain the connection between the body and the nervous system to overcome chronic pain. Today, you’re going to learn about how to fix some of the most common causes of head, neck, and back pain.

In this conversation, Dr. Joe is sharing the basics of spinal anatomy, how fascia works, and the role your nervous system plays in the pain cycle. You’re going to learn how to identify if recurring pain is a result of movement or nervous system, how to improve your posture, and so much more. Enjoy!

In this episode you’ll discover:

The connection between your butt, pelvis, and neck pain. (2:31)
How the three curves in your spine work together. (3:39)
How common issues with your glutes can cause spine misalignment. (4:56)
The most common reasons why neck pain occurs. (7:32)
Three ways the nervous system can create chronic pain issues. (11:10)
How getting more curious about your pain can help you improve. (17:40)
When to utilize imaging for pain. (20:02)
Why taking accountability is the key to improving your health. (24:18)
Ways to calm the nervous system and start reducing pain. (25:33)
How a physical injury can evolve into a nervous system threat. (28:10)
What tech neck is and exercises for mitigating it. (33:18)
The definition of fascia and how to understand its purpose. (43:23)
The role of hydration in fascia health. (44:58)
Exercises you can implement to improve your posture. (52:11)

Items mentioned in this episode include:

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PhysioLoops Revitalization Program - Use code MODELHEALTH for 20% off Dr. Joe’s program!
Connect with Dr. Joe Damiani Website / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

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