TED Health cover image

TED Health

How to hack your brain when you're in pain | Amy Baxter

Oct 31, 2023
Amy Baxter, a researcher and physician specializing in pain relief and neuroscience discusses practical neuroscience hacks to block pain signals. She explores the power of vibration and cold, understanding pain and the brain's response, alternative pain management, and the future of pain scales.
17:26

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Understanding pain as a complex system involving physiology, fear, and control empowers individuals to manage their pain more effectively.
  • Physiological methods like vibration and cold, as well as distraction techniques, can reduce pain and reshape the experience of pain.

Deep dives

Pain as a Survival System

Pain specialist Dr. Amy Baxter challenges the notion that pain is simply an annoyance to be silenced. She argues that pain is an essential learning system for survival and is influenced by various factors beyond a single incident. The goal of achieving a pain-free existence has led to destructive consequences, including addiction. Understanding pain as a Venn diagram involving physiology, fear, and control can empower individuals to manage their pain more effectively.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner