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Send us Fan Mail Dr Abrar Hussain is a Consultant Psychiatrist and Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, specialising in general adult and liaison psychiatry at the interface of physical and psychological health. He has worked with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) for around fifteen years, runs a specialist NHS FND service, is a member of the FND Hope UK Medical Expert Committee, advises the patient-led Neuro-log platform, and served as a Principal Investigator within the national CODES trial for dissociative seizures. He is a newly published author of the book "I can heal - A journey through FND" - Link below In this episode, I sit down to chat with a good friend and colleague, Abrar with another perspective towards a condition like FND that has pain as one of its main symptoms and where the neuroscience is starting to show lots of similarities with pain. We explore Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), emphasizing the importance of relational, biopsychosocial approaches, validation, and the integration of psychological and neurological care.  keywords FND, neurological disorder, biopsychosocial, validation, relational psychiatry, trauma, multidisciplinary care, mental health, pain management, patient-centered care Chapters 00:00 Introduction to FND and its challenges 01:59 Dr. Hussain's background and motivation in FND 04:01 Understanding the holistic approach to FND 06:09 Explaining FND to patients: language and validation 08:06 The concept of sense-making in FND 09:22 Relational psychiatry and its application in FND 11:57 Patient journey and systemic barriers 13:27 Symptoms as expressions of the nervous system 16:00 Screening for trauma and stress in FND patients 20:04 The FND service in Berkshire and multidisciplinary pathways 22:08 Role of primary care and community support 23:56 Overlap between FND and persistent pain 25:55 Mental health comorbidities in FND 27:55 Psychological therapies: CAT and EMDR 31:06 Dr. Hussain's upcoming book on FND 33:02 Resources and online tools for FND awareness 35:00 Final messages and hope for FND patients Resources Dr Hussains website https://www.berkshirepsychiatrist.co.uk/ https://www.drabrarhussain.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-abrar-hussain-b2923747/ His book: I can heal https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1065401507/ref=asc_df_1065401507?mcid=69c6ea6ec7f338ed939e6cf1831d0efe&th=1&psc=1&tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=799489365597&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4928001865647588019&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9045969&hvtargid=pla-2503325594760&psc=1&hvocijid=4928001865647588019-1065401507-&hvexpln=0&gad_source=1 Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I interview Professor Peter O'Sullivan about his pioneering work in cognitive functional therapy (CFT) for persistent musculoskeletal pain. We explore the science, philosophy, and clinical application of CFT, emphasizing hope, confidence, and a biopsychosocial approach to pain management. Peter is a John Curtin Distinguished Professor at the School of Allied Health Sciences at Curtin University, and a practicing Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist. CFT has demonstrated efficacy in numerous clinical trials, including a recent landmark trial published in The Lancet (restorebackpain.com). With his team he has published more than 372 scientific papers. With his team Peter has developed a social enterprise to support clinician training in cognitive functional therapy called evoolvepaincare.academy.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Peter O'Sullivan and his work 02:18 Peter's journey from traditional physiotherapy to CFT 06:44 The shift from pathology-focused to person-centered care 09:01 Core principles of cognitive functional therapy 12:10 The patient journey and clinical process in CFT 17:30 The importance of time and relationship in effective care 23:07 Key findings from the Restore Trial 26:27 Mediators and moderators of treatment success 28:48 The role of movement and confidence in recovery 36:33 Differentiating CFT from other psychological approaches 44:40 Building clinician skills and confidence in pain management 52:58 Training, implementation, and global dissemination of CFT 01:00:57 The future of pain science and research 01:06:09 Final message of hope and empowerment for patients Resources Evolve Pain Acadmy: https://evoolvepaincare.academy/ Socia media https://www.instagram.com/evoolvepaincareacademy/ https://www.facebook.com/evoolvepaincare.academy/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/evoolvepaincareacademy/ Dr Rangan Chatterjee Podcast: https://drchatterjee.com/how-to-break-free-from-chronic-pain-and-reclaim-your-life-with-professor-peter-osullivan/ Restore Back pain Trial: https://www.restorebackpain.com/ Linkedin link here Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, i got the opportunity to interview a person I hugely admire. He is  the person most responsible for putting Functional Neurological Disordeer (FND) on the scientific map. Professor Jon Stone is Professor of Neurology at the University of Edinburgh. Since 1999, he has published over 400 papers, built the world's most widely used patient resource for FND — neurosymptoms.org — and led on international diagnostic criteria. As you may know, FND is a real, disabling, neurological condition. It affects how the brain processes and generates movement, sensation and — critically for this audience — pain. It is not feigning. It is not malingering. And for many patients, it is treatable.  keywords FND, pain, neurology, diagnosis, treatment, neuroimmune, predictive processing, multidisciplinary rehab key topics FND as a neurological condition affecting movement and sensationThe overlap between FND and chronic pain conditionsDiagnostic signs like Hoover sign and tremor entrainmentThe neuroimmune and predictive processing models of FNDMultidisciplinary approaches to FND and pain managementChapters 00:00 Understanding Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) 03:15 The Intersection of FND and Pain 07:44 Defining FND in Modern Medicine 11:28 Clinical Signs and Diagnosis of FND 13:29 FND as a Software Problem 15:52 Prevalence of Chronic Pain in FND Patients 19:08 Mechanisms Behind FND and Pain Overlap 21:10 Reconciling CRPS and FND 23:08 Understanding the Overlap in Pain Conditions 30:26 Predictive Processing and Its Role in FND 35:58 Interdisciplinary Approaches to FND Treatment 43:31 The Role of Pain Physicians in Managing FND 46:15 Resources for Learning About FND  Resources neurosymptoms.org - https://neurosymptoms.org International FND Society - https://fndhope.org FND in chronic pain clinics: 2023 -  DOI: 10.1111/ene.15892  CRPS and FND : 2018:  Popkirov S, Hoeritzauer i, Colvin L, doi:10.1136/jnnp-2018 318298  Pain and FND 2024 review:  Steinruecke M, Mason I, Keen M, et al. J doi:10.1136/jnnp-2023 332810  Migraine and FND 2025 review:  https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcaf288  Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode , I sit down with good friend and colleague Rodger Duckworth and explore one of the most fascinating frontiers in pain medicine—the intersection of trauma, touch, physiology, psychology and healing. Rodger has spent more than three decades evolving from conventional physiotherapy into a practitioner integrating neuroscience, autonomic regulation, body psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, EMDR and much more. he is truly one of a kind and his thinking and treatment style reflects that personalised approach.  Some of these ideas may challenge your assumptions. Others may resonate deeply with your own experience. Drop a comment and let us know how this conversation felt to you.  keywords trauma, holistic health, somatic experiencing, PNIE, fascia, manual therapy, healing, pain management, integrative medicine key topics The influence of trauma and past experiences on painThe role of fascia and fascial therapy in healingThe connection between mind, body, and spirit in healthThe importance of therapeutic relationship and trustThe concept of PNIE (psycho-neuro-immuno-endocrinology) and its relevanceThe use of touch and neuroaffective touch in therapyThe impact of developmental trauma and early life experiencesThe integration of Zen philosophy and mindfulness in healingThe evolving landscape of holistic and integrative medicinePractical advice for clinicians working with complex trauma and painChapters 00:00 The Complexity of Pain 02:26 Roger Duckworth's Journey in Physiotherapy 06:28 Mind-Body Connection and Personal Healing 09:24 The Mind-Body Dualism Debate 11:33 Understanding the PNIE System 14:30 Somatic Experiencing and Its Relation to PNIE 20:01 Neuroaffective Touch and Therapeutic Touch 29:28 The Importance of Fascia in Health 35:48 Manual Therapy: Benefits and Limitations 41:49 Creating Safe Spaces for Survivors 50:23 The Influence of Zen Philosophy on Healing 55:47 Hope for the Future of Integrative Medicine Links: The Grange RD physio website: https://www.rdphysio.com/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I sit down to chat with Jeannie Di Bon—movement therapist, educator, founder of The Zebra Club, author, and creator of the Integral Movement Method. Through both professional expertise and lived experience, she has helped thousands of people rethink movement not as something to fear, but as a pathway towards confidence, resilience and recovery..  When most people think about hypermobility, they imagine someone who's simply very flexible. But for many people, hypermobility comes with persistent pain, fatigue, autonomic symptoms, gastrointestinal problems, anxiety, neurodivergence, repeated injuries, and years of being misunderstood. Today we're exploring a movement that is changing that narrative. keywords hypermobility, EDS, Zebra Club, pain management, movement therapy, neurodivergence, chronic pain, patient support, NHS, integrative movement key topics Hypermobility and EDS diagnosis journeyThe Integral Movement Method and its principlesThe role of breath, proprioception, and nervous system regulationCommunity support through the Zebra ClubImpact of misconceptions and the importance of early diagnosisThe overlap between hypermobility, neurodivergence, and mental healthChallenges within NHS pathways and the need for integrated careResearch and future directions in hypermobility and pain managementChapters 00:00 Understanding Hypermobility and Its Challenges 03:01 Jeannie Di Bon's Personal Journey with EDS 05:58 The Birth of the Integral Movement Method 08:55 The Zebra Club: A Community for Hypermobility 12:01 The Role of Education and Awareness in EDS 14:49 The Biopsychosocial Model in Pain Management 18:04 Innovative Approaches to Movement Therapy 20:56 The Importance of Breath and Proprioception 23:52 Challenges in Traditional Rehabilitation for Hypermobility 26:57 The Evolving Landscape of EDS Awareness 29:58 Future Directions for Hypermobility Care 33:38 Fragmentation and Community Support 34:45 Hypermobility and Neurodivergence 36:41 Understanding Misconceptions in EDS 38:46 The Role of Clinicians in EDS Care 43:00 Community Collaboration with Clinical Models 48:30 Transformative Patient Stories 51:34 Future Directions in EDS Research Resources Website The Zebra Club : https://thezebra.club/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Pain Speak, Deepak Ravindran and Dr. Rani Bora explore the concept of mental wealth, emphasizing the importance of cultivating mental health beyond merely reducing symptoms. They discuss the intersection of mental health and chronic pain and the evolving perspectives on mental health treatment.  The conversation delves into the definitions of mental wealth, the mind-body-spirit connection, and the trauma-informed paradigm, while also addressing the challenges of nervous system dysregulation and the impact of medication on mental health.  In this conversation, Rani and Deepak explore the complexities of deprescribing medications, particularly in the context of pain management. They discuss the challenges patients face when trying to come off medications, the role of trauma in pain perception, and the importance of understanding the kindling effect.   Additionally, they touch on the role of spirituality in well-being and the importance of empowering patients in their healing journey. Takeaways Mental health should focus on cultivating mental wealth, not just symptom reduction. Chronic pain is deeply connected to mental health and trauma. The conventional approach often focuses on fixing people rather than empowering them. Mental wealth encompasses mind, body, and spirit, not just the mind-body connection. The trauma-informed paradigm shifts the focus from 'what happened to you' to 'what happened inside of you.' Nervous system dysregulation can manifest in various physical and psychological symptoms. Medication tapering must be approached with caution to avoid dysregulation. Deprescribing can be challenging, especially for long-term users. The kindling effect can make withdrawal more difficult for some patients. Recovery can begin before symptoms fully resolve. Spirituality plays a crucial role in overall well-being and healing. Mental health recovery involves more than just symptom reduction. Keywords mental health, mental wealth, chronic pain, trauma, resilience, holistic psychiatry, nervous system dysregulation, medication, healing, well-being deprescribing, pain management, trauma, medication withdrawal, kindling effect, diagnostic labels, recovery, spirituality, mental health, holistic psychiatry Dr Rani Bora's Clinic is both online and Brick and mortar and she can be found at https://holisticpsychiatryclinic.com/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Pain Speak, I speak to Prof. Sunil Kumar  and discuss the pressing challenges in healthcare related to long-term conditions and the concept of 'waiting well.' We explore the journey of Dr. Kumar from anesthesia to becoming a thought leader in lifestyle medicine, emphasizing the importance of health capacity, resilience, and social connection. We delved into the significance of prehabilitation in preparing patients for surgery and the need for a shift from compliance to patient ownership in health management.  In this conversation, Sunil discusses the importance of behavior change, autonomy, and motivation in healthcare. He emphasizes the need to address burnout among healthcare professionals, particularly junior doctors, and shares insights on developing resilience through personalized approaches. Sunil advocates for lifestyle medicine as a foundational element in healthcare, aiming for a shift from reactive disease management to proactive health creation. He highlights the significance of auditing one's life and integrating purpose and passion into daily routines to combat burnout and enhance well-being. Takeaways The growing number of people living with long-term conditions is a significant challenge for healthcare systems. Waiting for treatment can be transformed into an opportunity for building strength and resilience. Lifestyle medicine is an evidence-based clinical discipline, not just lifestyle advice. Health should be defined as the capacity to live the life you want, not merely the absence of disease. Social connection is a critical determinant of health, with evidence showing its impact on longevity. Prehabilitation is an underutilized therapeutic window that can improve patient outcomes before surgery. Empowering patients through small, manageable changes can lead to significant health improvements. Behavior change requires capability, opportunity, and motivation, as outlined in the COM-B model. Lasting change is built on autonomy, competence, and connection. People resist being changed, not change itself. Lifestyle medicine should be a first-line therapy, not an add-on. The future of healthcare should focus on proactive health creation. Keywords healthcare, lifestyle medicine, prehabilitation, chronic conditions, social connection, patient empowerment, waiting well, health capacity, resilience, behavior change behavior change, autonomy, motivation, burnout, healthcare professionals, junior doctors, resilience, lifestyle medicine, clinician well-being, health systems Find more about Dr Sunil Kumar at https://drsunilkumar.co.uk/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Pain Speak, I speak to one of my patients, Chantel, who very kindly agrred to share her story. Chantal shares her journey living with persistent neck and back pain, exploring how understanding, targeted interventions, and self-management strategies led to her recovery. This episode highlights the importance of patient responsibility, the role of neuroscience in pain, and practical tips for managing chronic pain. keywords chronic pain, neck pain, back pain, pain management, neuroscience, self-care, recovery, patient empowerment key topics Living with chronic pain since early 20sGradual onset of neck pain and its impactMRI findings and diagnosis of nerve narrowingThe importance of understanding pain mechanismsRole of targeted injections and interventionsSelf-care, mindfulness, and body awarenessManaging fear and the pain fear cycleThe significance of patient responsibility and knowledgeRecovery as a non-linear process with ups and downsThe impact of pain on mental health and well-beingkey frameworks Pain Science EducationNeuroplasticity and PainThe Pain Fear CycleSelf-Management and Responsibility Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pain and Recovery 01:15 Chantel's Life Before Pain 02:52 The Onset of Neck Pain 05:58 Seeking Medical Help 09:41 Understanding Pain and Diagnosis 09:54 Impact of Pain on Daily Life 12:38 Mental Health and Pain Management 15:03 Exploring Treatment Options 18:21 Immediate Effects of Treatment 21:29 Confronting Pain: A Personal Journey 24:21 Mind-Body Connection: Understanding Pain Responses 27:44 Taking Responsibility for Health and Wellbeing 30:09 Managing Fear and Embracing Action 34:03 Shifting Perspectives: Aging and Body Awareness 35:23 Understanding Neuroplastic Pain 37:18 Messages of Hope for Pain Sufferers Resources Deepak Ravindran's Book on Pain ManagementAlan Gordon's Book on Pain ScienceGuest links LinkedInInstagramDisclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail Summary In this epsiode of Pain Speak, I host Dr. Karen Wallace to explore the vital connection between work and health, especially in managing chronic pain, mental health, and long-term conditions. They discuss innovative approaches, policy initiatives, and the future of integrated healthcare and employment support systems. keywords work and health, chronic pain, occupational medicine, NHS, AI in healthcare, disability support, fit note, mental health, employment, healthcare innovation Chapters 00:00: The Impact of Chronic Pain on Employment 02:48: Dr. Karen Wallace's Journey in Occupational Medicine 06:06: Understanding Occupational Medicine and Its Role 08:44. The Fit Note: Transition from Sick Note to Fit Note 11:54: The Importance of Work as a Health Outcome 14:55: Navigating the Fit Note Process 18:04: Challenges in the UK Healthcare System 20:56 The Role of Community Support in Employment and Health 23:50 The Interplay of Mental Health and Chronic Pain 27:02 The Long-Term Effects of Economic Inactivity 30:43 Challenges in Returning to Work 32:34: Exciting Developments in Work and Health Integration 34:40: Envisioning an Integrated Work Health Model 38:58: Understanding Chronic Pain in the Workplace 44:01: Supporting Chronic Pain Patients 45:59: The Role of AI in Healthcare 53:32. Practical Advice for Clinicians 55:30: Redesigning the Health System for Integration Resources Maximus UKSociety of Occupational MedicineUK Government White Paper 'Start, Stay, Succeed'AI in Healthcare: Opportunities and Challenges (Dissertation)Guest links LinkedInDisclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail Pain medicine is at a crossroads. Summary In this episode, Dr. Ganesan Baranidharan, Consultant in Pain Medicine and Dean of the Faculty of Pain Medicine,  discusses the future of pain medicine, neuromodulation, and the evolving role of specialists in the UK. He shares insights on service development, patient selection, technological advances, and the importance of multidisciplinary care.  In this insightful interview in the role as a Dean, Dr. Ganesan Baranidharan discusses the evolving landscape of pain medicine, emphasizing the importance of credentialing, registries, big data, and the integration of technology and multidisciplinary approaches to improve patient outcomes. He shares his vision for the future pain specialist and the role of AI, training pathways, and national reforms.  keywords Pain Medicine, Neuromodulation, Healthcare Innovation, UK, Patient Care, Medical Training, Future of Pain Management Pain Medicine, Credentialing, Registries, Big Data, AI, Training, Multidisciplinary, Future of Pain Care, Healthcare Innovation, UK Healthcare Chapters 00:00 The Current State of Pain Medicine 02:45 The Evolution of Pain Management 05:49 The Rise of Neuromodulation 08:42 Innovations in Neuromodulation Techniques 12:05 Challenges in Accessing Pain Treatments 15:09 The Role of Education in Pain Management 17:59 Developing Effective Patient Selection Tools 21:03 The Future of Pain Medicine 23:55 The Role of the Faculty of Pain Medicine 26:53 Community vs. Tertiary Care in Pain Management 29:41 The Importance of Training and Recruitment 33:05 Vision for the Future of Pain Medicine 46:04 Understanding Chronic Pain and Its Management 49:23 The Evolution of Pain Medicine as a Specialty 53:55 Training Future Pain Specialists 56:43 The Role of Data and Registries in Pain Medicine 01:01:44 Improving Patient Care Through Collaboration 01:06:25 The Future of Pain Management and Innovations 01:12:12 The Importance of Big Data in Pain Medicine 01:19:03 Challenges in Pain Management and Patient Selection 01:25:37 The Human Element in Pain Medicine  Resources Royal College of Anesthetists - https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/ Faculty of Pain Medicine, Royal College of Anesthetists - https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/faculty-of-pain-medicine Neuromodulation Registry UK - https://neuromodulationregistry.uk/ Dr. Ganesan Barneedaran's Publications - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Ganesan+Barneedaran GIRFT Program (Getting It Right First Time) - https://www.england.nhs.uk/girft/ British Spine Registry - https://www.britishspine.org/registry MHRA Device Safety Regulations - https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/medicines-and-healthcare-products-regulatory-agency Big Data in Healthcare - NHS Digital - https://digital.nhs.uk/ Guest links Twitter - https://twitter.com/DrGBaranidharan LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ganesan-baranidharan/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail Health starts in communities, not just hospitals. In todays epsiode, I  explore innovative social prescribing approaches with Sandra Mitchell-Phillips, CEO of Ways to Wellness, focusing on neighborhood health, reducing health inequalities, and supporting preoperative care to improve outcomes and reduce NHS costs. Ways 2 wellness works predominantly in the North East of the UK witha  number of projects that bring social prescribing into primary care and secondary care.  Chapters 00:00 Rethinking Healthcare: Beyond Hospitals 03:10 Sandra's Journey: Bridging NHS and Community Care 05:55 The Birth of Ways to Wellness: A Community-Centric Approach 08:53 Measuring Impact: Social Prescribing in Action 11:57 Non-Medical Interventions: The Role of Social Prescribers 14:56 Misconceptions of the Voluntary Sector in Healthcare 18:09 Tackling Health Inequalities: A Community Focus 20:44 Co-Production and Relational Care: A New Paradigm 23:51 Supporting Chronic Pain: A Holistic Approach 26:47 Transforming Lives: The Power of Community Support 35:04 Navigating Support Duration in Healthcare 37:38 The Importance of Listening in Patient Care 40:16 Introducing the PROSPER Program 46:40 Reducing Opioid Use Before Surgery 52:20 The Journey of Waiting Well 55:57 The Future of Neighborhood Health 01:02:44 Redesigning Healthcare for Human Well-Being  keywords social prescribing, neighborhood health, health inequalities, preoperative care, community health, NHS innovation, chronic pain, opioid reduction, holistic care, health inequalities Resources Ways to Wellness - https://www.waystowellness.org.uk NHS Long Term Plan - https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-term-plan/ Social Prescribing Network - https://www.socialprescribingnetwork.com Wellbeing Star Tool - https://triangleconsulting.co.uk/wellbeing-star/ Chronic Pain Management Resources - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chronic-pain/ Prosper Program Details - https://www.waystowellness.org.uk/prosper Guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandramitchellphillips Website - https://www.waystowellness.org.uk Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail Arriving and touring in the UK - Manchester June 3rd to 5th, 2026 as part of NOIgroup. Today’s guest is someone who needs no introduction to the world of Pain Care. He has been one of my biggest influences in how I teach pain Science education so a big welcome to Professor Lorimer Moseley, Bradley Distinguished Professor at Adelaide University in Australia. He has authored over 430 scientific papers, written several bestselling pain books, and his educational work reaches millions of people each year through healthcare systems such as the NHS and the US Veterans Affairs. He is also the founder of Pain Revolution, an initiative aimed at transforming pain understanding in communities, and in 2020 he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for his contribution to humanity through pain science, communication and education. In this insightful interview, Professor Lorimer Mosley discusses the evolution of pain education, the importance of understanding pain as a protective system, and innovative approaches like pain science education, community engagement, and digital tools to transform pain management. keywords pain education, pain science, community health, pain revolution, pain management, health equity, public health, VR in pain education, bioplasticity, pain research key topics Evolution of pain education from neuroscience to constructivist modelsThe role of enjoyment and engagement in pain science communicationCommunity co-design and culturally powerful pain interventionsThe importance of social determinants and health equity in pain researchEmerging digital tools like VR and AI in pain education and management Resources Pain Revolution - https://painrevolution.org/ Explain Pain Book by Lorimer Moseley and David Butler - https://www.amazon.com/Explain-Pain-Lorimer-Moseley/dp/0975096744 Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) Resources - https://painrevolution.org/resources/ PEDAL Collaboration for Pain Education - https://pedalcollaboration.org/ Reality Health VR Platform - https://realityhealth.com/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail My guest today is Dr Helen Makins, a Consultant in Pain Medicine at Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK and someone whose career has taken her across clinical practice, education, commissioning, global health and now national leadership. Helen is currently the National Clinical Lead for the Chronic Pain Programme at GIRFT – Getting It Right First Time, a major NHS initiative focused on improving clinical outcomes, reducing variation and redesigning services across the country. But what makes Helen particularly interesting is the breadth of her work — from teaching pain education internationally with Mercy Ships, to developing innovative social prescribing programmes for young people with pain, to exploring the links between neurodiversity, childhood experiences and chronic pain. She has also worked closely with the Faculty of Pain Medicine, championing better communication skills, clinician wellbeing and the integration of biopsychosocial approaches into training. So today we’re going to explore: • how someone ends up leading national pain transformation work • what GIRFT might mean for the future of pain services • why communication and de-medicalisation matter so much in pain consultations • and how we might better support both patients and clinicians in this space. keywords Pain management, NHS, chronic pain, social prescribing, communication skills, lifestyle medicine, neurodiversity, healthcare commissioning, GIRFT, patient-centered care key topics Evolution of NHS pain servicesImportance of communication skills in pain managementRole of social prescribing and lifestyle medicineImpact of neurodiversity on chronic painGIRFT program and healthcare commissioning resources GIRFT website - https://www.england.nhs.uk/girft/ Stephen Rolnick's Motivational Interviewing Course - https://www.motivationalinterviewing.org/ Essential Pain Management Program - https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/faculty-of-pain-medicine/education/essential-pain-management Helen Makins' LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenmakins/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail  In March 2026, I attended the Live well with Pain Conference at Warwick organised by Emma Davies and Laura Hussey. It had some amazing speakers including Prof Roger Knaggs, the President of the British Pain Society. While I didnt get a chance to speak to him, I did speak to most of the other key note speakers and I thought what would they say to 3 questions I had about pain care and the hope that they have when they do the work. This episode is my reflection on the Live Well With Pain Conference, exploring innovative approaches to pain management, the importance of holistic care, and the hope for living well with persistent pain. keywords pain management, chronic pain, holistic care, patient empowerment, healthcare innovation, pain education, biopsychosocial model, community support, health coaching, pain recovery key topics Shift from cure to living well with painBiopsychosocial model and holistic careRole of community and primary care in pain managementChapters 00:00 Introduction to the Conference and Deepak's Reflection 02:08 Unique Aspects of the Live Well With Pain Conference 04:06 The Human Experience of Pain and Its Impact 06:02 Challenges in Persistent Pain Management 07:52 The Power of Education and Self-Management 10:14 Aligning Healthcare with Patient Needs 12:10 Population Health and Proactive Care 14:00 Broadening Support Beyond Medical Treatments 16:02 Insights from Keynote Speakers 17:53 The Role of Hope and Empowerment 20:05 Sleep, Lifestyle, and Pain Management 22:05 The Importance of Community and Primary Care 24:07 The Value of Validation and Listening 26:03 Shifting Mindsets and Moving Forward 27:55 The Power of Curiosity and Change 29:49 The Role of Coaching and Community Support 32:07 The Bright Future of Pain Care 33:58 Inspiring Hope and Collective Action 35:55 Conclusion: A Call to Action and Resources Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Pain Speak, I interview Louise McAllan, a somatic experiencing practitioner, who shares her personal journey through chronic pain and the emotional connections that influenced her recovery. Louise discusses the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, the impact of diagnoses, and the importance of emotional awareness in healing.  Louise McAllen is a Scottish somatic experiencing practitioner and mind-body coach. With over eight years of experience grappling with chronic symptoms, including functional neurological disorder (FND) and fibromyalgia, she has transitioned from patient to practitioner, helping others reclaim their lives from chronic pain. Her unique approach combines emotional awareness with physical well-being, making her a credible voice in the field of chronic pain management.  She delivers group programmes, 1:1 work and residential retreats, and is pioneering Scotland’s first in-person Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET) group in Edinburgh. Trained with SIRPA and Dr Howard Schubiner, she is committed to bringing evidence-based, emotion-focused approaches into mainstream healthcare - reducing stigma around mind-body conditions and sharing the message that meaningful improvement and recovery are possible when patients are given education, choice and appropriate support alongside conventional care.  The conversation highlights the need for validation, information, and hope in the healing process, encouraging listeners to explore their emotions and reconnect with their bodies. Disclaimer: This podcast is for education and general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you are experiencing ongoing pain or distress, please consult your healthcare professional.  Please provide a feedback and comments on the podcast and any questions that you may have. If you enjoyed it please rate and leave a review on Spotify/Apple podcasts and tell a friend about this show. The Pain Speak podcast is presented by Prof Deepak Ravindran, a NHS Consultant specialising in Pain and Lifestyle Medicine. Dr Ravindran is also the author of the book, 'The Pain Free Mindset' Get in touch: Twitter: @deepakravindra5 Instagram: drdeepakravindran Website: www.deepakravindran.co.uk Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrDeepakRavindran Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drdeepakravindran5361 For Clinical Queries and consultations, please go to Berkshire Pain Clinic Order a copy of the Pain Free Mindset here For Season 1 and 3: Mixed and edited by Rob Cao at...