Science Friday
Untangling The Mind-Body Connection In Chronic Pain
Apr 29, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Shoshana Buxbaum, a Science Friday producer with a decade-long journey through chronic pain, discusses the intricate ties between mental health and chronic pain. She highlights the stigma surrounding neuro-psychological causes and how pain can affect emotional well-being. The talk introduces innovative treatments like pain reprocessing therapy, showcasing its promise in alleviating chronic pain. Buxbaum also shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the need for a holistic view in understanding and treating chronic pain.
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Quick takeaways
- Chronic pain affects 20% of US adults and often correlates with mental health issues, highlighting the complex mind-body relationship.
- Recent success of pain reprocessing therapy suggests that psychological approaches can significantly reduce chronic pain and reshape patient perceptions.
Deep dives
Understanding Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is defined as any pain lasting longer than three months, encompassing a wide range of conditions. It can manifest in various forms, such as migraines or lower back pain, and researchers are increasingly classifying pain based on the underlying causes, which may include physical injuries, nerve damage, or psychological factors. Notably, chronic pain often coexists with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, highlighting the complex interplay between mind and body. This bidirectional relationship suggests that while chronic pain can lead to mental health challenges, pre-existing psychological conditions may also increase the likelihood of developing chronic pain.
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