ADHD Experts Podcast 577- Why Chronic Pain Is So Common Among Neurodivergent Youth
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Sep 30, 2025 Dr. Anna C. Wilson is a pediatric psychologist and author focused on children's chronic pain, while Dr. Gloria T. Han specializes in chronic pain neurobiology in neurodivergent youth. They discuss why chronic pain disproportionately affects autistic youth with and without ADHD, highlighting unique presentations and daily impacts. The conversation includes effective strategies for managing pain, addressing sensory overwhelm and co-occurring conditions, and practical advice for caregivers on advocating within clinical and school settings.
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Pain Is More Than Tissue Damage
- Pain is an experience shaped by biological, psychological, and social factors and always involves the brain.
- Chronic pain persists past expected healing and becomes its own condition influenced by nervous system changes.
Nociplastic Pain Explains 'No Cause' Pain
- Nociplastic pain involves altered processing without clear tissue or nerve damage and is common in chronic conditions.
- Conditions like juvenile fibromyalgia and amplified musculoskeletal pain often reflect this mechanism.
Autism Linked To Higher Pain Rates
- Autistic youth show higher rates of chronic pain than peers and are overrepresented in pediatric pain clinics.
- Pain prevalence rises further when autism co-occurs with other developmental conditions.
