The Pain Podcast

In this episode of The Le Pub Scientifique Podcast, Tim Beames and Bart van Buchem tackle a phrase many clinicians fear saying out loud: “I don’t know.” Working in pain care means working with complexity, variability, and uncertainty — yet clinicians often feel pressure to provide certainty, predictions, and clear answers. In this conversation, Tim and Bart explore why false certainty can quietly erode trust, and how learning to work honestly and skilfully with uncertainty can actually strengthen the therapeutic relationship. They discuss: Why uncertainty is inevitable in pain — and not a sign of incompetence The difference between confidence and certainty How over-explaining or overselling treatment can backfire When “I don’t know” builds trust — and when it doesn’t Reframing patient questions like “What’s wrong with me?” into deeper needs such as safety, support, and direction How curiosity, exploration, and experience help both clinicians and patients live better with uncertainty This episode is the first in a series exploring uncertainty, trust, and flexibility in clinical practice — especially relevant for clinicians working with persistent and complex pain. If you value thoughtful, reflective conversations like this, you can join Le Pub Scientifique: 👉 Free membership — access selected podcasts, discussions, and community content👉 Premium membership — full access to podcast archives, science sessions, clinical coaching series, and in-depth conversations with leading clinicians and researchers 🔗 Join here: https://www.lepubscientifique.com/ #PainPodcast#ClinicalReasoning#PainEducation#LePubScientifique

In this episode of The Pain Podcast, Tim Beames and Bart van Buchem explore a deceptively simple question: can assessment itself be therapeutic? Drawing on clinical experience from both in-person and online practice, they unpack how physical examinations are never neutral acts. Every question asked, every movement explored, and every test performed can shape expectations, build trust, reduce threat — or sometimes unintentionally increase it. Rather than viewing assessment as a box-ticking exercise, Tim and Bart discuss assessment as a shared process of sense-making. They explore: How validation, reassurance, and curiosity can emerge before any treatment begins The difference between testing and exploring Why over-testing can sometimes increase uncertainty or fear How assessments can update internal models and predictions about the body The role of safety, trust, and co-creation in early clinical encounters If you enjoy conversations like this and want to go deeper into pain science, clinical reasoning, and real-world practice, you can join Le Pub Scientifique. 👉 Free membership gives you access to selected episodes, discussions, and community content👉 Premium membership unlocks full podcast archives, science sessions, clinical coaching series, and in-depth discussions with leading clinicians and researchers 🔗 Join here: https://www.lepubscientifique.com/ #PainPodcast #ClinicalReasoning #PainEducation

In this Christmas special, Tim Beames and Bart van Buchem look back at 2025 with Le Pub Scientifique and The Pain Podcast. This episode is part gratitude, part reflection, and part behind-the-scenes tour of what’s been happening in the Le Pub universe – and how it all connects to real clinical work. They talk about: Meeting listeners and members at EPIC in Lyon and in Melbourne, and the sense that there is now a recognisable, values-driven global pain rehab community. The growth of Le Pub Free Membership (around 350 members) and how it offers access to current assets: podcasts, clinical takeaways, and practical tools. Highlights from Science Sessions, including: Predictive models and mechanisms of pain Nociplastic pain Immunology, lifestyle and their role in rehab The ongoing work of the Pain in Motion group A big year for the Clinical Coaching / Confidence Series: Irene Wicki on radiculopathy and nerve-related pain Bernhard Taxer on headaches, migraine and craniofacial pain A roundtable with Bernhard & Laura Rathbone on overlapping symptom profiles Sessions with Alison Sim and Ben Boyd on persistent conditions and therapeutic process Short-form resources: Pain Hacks – Bart’s 90-second practical pieces. Tim Translates – short paper reviews with explicit “how I use this in clinic” reflections. The FND Motor Masterclass – why functional neurological disorder is becoming more visible in neurology and rehab, and how the masterclass blends psychiatry, neurology and physiotherapy to give clinicians a grounded starting point. How recording the podcast itself has become a reflective practice tool for both Tim and Bart, feeding directly into their day-to-day clinical work. They finish by looking ahead to 2026: A better-organised platform to make Le Pub’s resources easier to access. Upcoming Science Sessions on conditions like osteoarthritis. A continued focus on confidence and competence for clinicians working with people in pain. If this episode helped you… Share it with colleagues who care about pain, but might not yet know Le Pub exists. Consider joining the free membership to access practical takeaways and upcoming sessions. Let Tim and Bart know what you’d like to see more of in 2026. 🔗 Explore Le Pub Scientifique & join the community: In this Christmas special, Tim Beames and Bart van Buchem look back at 2025 with Le Pub Scientifique and The Pain Podcast. This episode is part gratitude, part reflection, and part behind-the-scenes tour of what’s been happening in the Le Pub universe – and how it all connects to real clinical work. They talk about: Meeting listeners and members at EPIC in Lyon and in Melbourne, and the sense that there is now a recognisable, values-driven global pain rehab community. The growth of Le Pub Free Membership (around 350 members) and how it offers access to current assets: podcasts, clinical takeaways, and practical tools. Highlights from Science Sessions, including: Predictive models and mechanisms of pain Nociplastic pain Immunology, lifestyle and their role in rehab The ongoing work of the Pain in Motion group A big year for the Clinical Coaching / Confidence Series: Irene Wicki on radiculopathy and nerve-related pain Bernhard Taxer on headaches, migraine and craniofacial pain A roundtable with Bernhard & Laura Rathbone on overlapping symptom profiles Sessions with Alison Sim and Ben Boyd on persistent conditions and therapeutic process Short-form resources: Pain Hacks – Bart’s 90-second practical pieces. Tim Translates – short paper reviews with explicit “how I use this in clinic” reflections. The FND Motor Masterclass – why functional neurological disorder is becoming more visible in neurology and rehab, and how the masterclass blends psychiatry, neurology and physiotherapy to give clinicians a grounded starting point. How recording the podcast itself has become a reflective pra

Up to three-quarters of people with persistent pain report sleep problems. Tim and Bart dig into why sleep disruption boosts sensitivity (inflammation, circadian shifts, cortical filtering) and how targeted, realistic strategies can help—far beyond “no screens after 9.” Hear how to triage insomnia type, coach stimulus control and sleep-window tweaks, handle neuropathic night pain (yes, sometimes get up and move), and track progress weekly.

In this episode of the Pain Podcast, Tim Beames and Bart Van Buchem tackle one of the most pressing challenges in pain care: how do we define success when pain doesn't go away? They explore why the traditional pain scale often fails people with chronic conditions, and how clinicians can shift the narrative toward life expansion, not just pain elimination. From functional goals to emotional resilience, discover what meaningful progress really looks like — and why celebrating small wins can be transformative for both patients and therapists. 🎧 Topics include:– Why pain scales aren’t the full story– Alternative outcome measures that reflect real-life improvement– Reframing success: from reducing pain to living well with it– Building trust, confidence, and connection in long-term pain care Perfect for clinicians, coaches, and anyone supporting people with persistent pain.

What happens when prescribed exercises don’t land—or even backfire? In this conversation, Bart Van Buchem and Tim Beames explore how rigid prescriptions can often disconnect people from their recovery and how a more collaborative, curious approach can unlock movement confidence. They discuss: Why traditional exercise programs often fall short The role of exploration, variability, and context in pain care How to co-create meaningful movement that adapts to real life Expect practical tips, clinical insights, and plenty of humour as Tim and Bart help you reimagine what movement in pain care can really look like.

What does it really mean to “accept” chronic pain? Is it passive? Defeatist? Or could it be one of the most powerful tools in the pain recovery process? In this thought-provoking episode of the Le Pub Scientifique Pain Podcast, Tim Beames joins host Bart van Buchem to explore how acceptance—far from meaning surrender—can provide a path toward self-understanding, reduced suffering, and renewed agency. Drawing on clinical experience, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and lived narratives, Tim and Bart explore: How acceptance differs from resignation Why so many people resist the concept Language and metaphors that resonate in clinical practice How to support patients in moving from resistance to presence The coexistence of pain relief strategies and acceptance Real clinical examples and communication tips Whether you’re a clinician, researcher, or someone living with persistent pain, this episode offers compassionate insights and practical strategies for reframing pain as something to relate to, not battle. Referenced resources include: Lance McCracken’s ACT research Bronnie Thompson’s work on “Living well with pain” Le Pub’s Clinical Confidence Series with Laura Rathbone 🎧 Subscribe and follow for more episodes diving deep into pain science, human connection, and evidence-informed care.

💡 What is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), and how can healthcare professionals improve patient care and treatment outcomes? In this episode, Bart Van Buchem explores the evolution of FND, from being historically misclassified as hysteria to its recognition as a complex neurological movement disorder. We dive into the latest treatment approaches, physiotherapy strategies, and multidisciplinary care models that are improving recovery outcomes for patients. 🔎 Key Topics Covered: ✅ The evolution of FND – From hysteria to neuroscience✅ The role of physiotherapy in restoring movement & function✅ Multidisciplinary treatment strategies – What works best?✅ Why patient acceptance of diagnosis is crucial for long-term recovery ⏳ Timestamps for Easy Navigation: 00:00 – Intro02:15 – The evolution of FND: From hysteria to neuroscience08:30 – The role of physiotherapy in treatment15:10 – Multidisciplinary care: What works best?22:45 – Patient acceptance & long-term recovery strategies 🎧 Listen & Subscribe for More Clinical Insights: 📌 Website & Full Episode Notes: https://www.lepubscientifique.com/ 💬 Enjoy this episode? Leave a review! It helps more healthcare professionals discover evidence-based approaches to pain and recovery.

Summary In this episode, Bart Van Buchem and Tim Beames discuss the complexities of nociplastic pain, a relatively new classification of pain that arises from altered nociception without clear evidence of tissue damage. They explore the implications of this classification for clinical practice, the importance of understanding patient perspectives, and the cultural considerations that influence pain terminology. The conversation highlights the challenges of diagnosing nociplastic pain and emphasizes the need for a broader understanding of pain experiences, including psychological factors. They also touch on the upcoming science session featuring Jo Nijs, which aims to further explore these topics. Takeaways - Nociplastic pain is a significant and ongoing debate.- Understanding pain mechanisms is crucial for effective treatment.- Classification of pain can influence treatment decisions.- Patients often seek acknowledgment for their pain experiences.- Cultural factors play a role in how pain is classified and understood.- Pain experiences are often complex and multifaceted.- A broader perspective on pain is necessary for effective management.- Nociplastic pain challenges traditional pain definitions and classifications.- Psychological factors must be considered in pain management.- Upcoming discussions will provide balanced perspectives on pain classification. Topics nociplastic pain, pain classification, chronic pain, pain management, clinical practice, pain terminology, patient perspectives, cultural considerations, pain complexity, treatment implications Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nociplastic Pain05:59 Clinical Implications of Nociplastic Pain12:05 Patient Perspectives on Pain Terminology18:00 Complexity of Pain Experiences23:55 The Future of Pain Management Recorded November 2024 Useful Links Le Pub Website: www.lepubscientifique.com Become a Le Pub member: https://www.lepubscientifique.com/premium-membership Contact us: info@lepubscientifique.com Follow us: Twitter: @lepubscientifiq Instagram: @lepubscientifique LinkedIn: @LePubScientifique

Summary In this episode of the Pain Podcast, Bart Van Buchem and Tim Beames delve into the complexities of the quick fix mentality in pain management. They explore the implications of relying on immediate solutions versus the importance of long-term strategies for managing persistent pain. The conversation emphasizes the need for a mindset shift towards active participation in treatment, the balance between passive and active therapies, and the significance of building trusting relationships with patients to facilitate their recovery journey. Takeaways Quick fix mentality can be harmful in the long run.Patients often seek immediate relief from pain.Expectations play a crucial role in pain management.Active treatments can also serve as quick fixes.Mindset shifts are essential for long-term recovery.Empowering patients in self-management is key.Building trust with patients takes time.Celebrating small successes can motivate patients.Educating patients about the nature of pain is important.Relationships in therapy can lead to fulfilling experiences. Keywords pain management, quick fix mentality, chronic pain, active treatment, passive treatment, mindset shift, physiotherapy, patient empowerment, long-term recovery, self-management Chapters 00:00 Understanding Quick Fix Mentality10:50 The Balance of Active and Passive Treatments22:57 Shifting Mindsets for Long-Term Pain Management32:50 Building Relationships in Pain Recovery Useful Links Le Pub Website: www.lepubscientifique.com Become a Le Pub member: https://www.lepubscientifique.com/premium-membership Contact us: lepubscientifique@gmail.com Follow us: Twitter: @lepubscientifiq Instagram: @lepubscientifique LinkedIn: @LePubScientifique

In this episode, Bart and Tim discuss the importance of taking a break from therapy and how it can benefit patients. They share a story of a patient who experienced positive changes after giving themselves permission to have a break. They explore the concept of embodiment and how being in a different environment can change the way we experience our bodies. They also discuss the therapeutic approach to breaks and the importance of empowering patients to take control of their own recovery. Overall, they emphasise the opportunity for reflection, exploration, and self-care that a break can provide. Takeaways Taking a break from therapy can be beneficial for patients, allowing them to reflect, explore, and take control of their own recovery. Being in a different environment can change the way we experience our bodies and can provide opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Therapists should empower patients to take breaks and give themselves permission to rest and recharge. Breaks can be a time for reflection, evaluation, and planning for future self-care and well-being. The therapeutic approach to breaks should focus on creating a context that reinforces positive experiences and allows for mindful exploration. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the Topic of the Day 02:26 The Importance of Self-Treatments and Productivity Pressure 09:44 Exploring Embodiment and the Impact of Different Environments 16:18 Creating a Context for Positive Experiences and Mindful Exploration 21:54 Empowering Patients to Take Control of Their Recovery 23:12 Conclusion and Announcement of the Pain Pub Quiz Useful Links Le Pub Website: www.lepubscientifique.com Become a Le Pub member: https://www.lepubscientifique.com/premium-membership Contact us: lepubscientifique@gmail.com Follow us: Twitter: @lepubscientifiq Instagram: @lepubscientifique LinkedIn: @LePubScientifique

Professor Cormac Ryan delves into the transformative power of the Flippin' Pain campaign, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to revolutionising the way people think, talk, and treat persistent pain. Through the lens of this public health approach, Cormac explores the critical importance of sharing knowledge, empowering communities, and harnessing the power of lived experiences to bridge the gap between specialists and the vast number of individuals living with persistent pain. Discover the six key messages that lie at the heart of this movement and learn how, by challenging misconceptions and reframing the narrative surrounding persistent pain, Flippin Pain is paving the way for a brighter future where recovery is possible, and no one is left to suffer in silence. Keywords persistent pain, knowledge, Flipping Pain, public health, generalists, biopsychosocial approach, lived experience, communication, recovery, expectations Takeaways The Flipping Pain initiative aims to boost knowledge and understanding of persistent pain in society. Reaching generalists who interact with patients on a daily basis is crucial for disseminating accurate pain-related knowledge. The campaign focuses on changing the way people think, talk, and treat persistent pain, promoting a biopsychosocial approach. The lived experience of pain is a vital component of the campaign, providing relevant and powerful perspectives. Barriers to spreading accurate pain-related knowledge include competing messages and the need to lift expectations and be more optimistic about recovery. Sound Bites "Flipping pain is about trying to change understanding on a community level, on a public health level about persistent pain." "We need to take the best strategies from marketing and for communication and utilize those in our endeavors to try and communicate a better understanding of persistent pain." "Recovery is possible. That's it, actually how I greet the person coming in." Chapters 00:00Introduction and Overview 01:18The Need to Share Accurate Pain-Related Knowledge 08:13The Six Key Messages of Flipping Pain 18:07Overcoming Barriers to Spreading Accurate Pain-Related Knowledge 21:52Lifting Expectations and Being Optimistic About Recovery 30:35Conclusion and Call to Action Useful Links Le Pub Website: www.lepubscientifique.com Become a Le Pub member: https://www.lepubscientifique.com/premium-membership Contact us: lepubscientifique@gmail.com Follow us: Twitter: @lepubscientifiq Instagram: @lepubscientifique LinkedIn: @LePubScientifique

In this episode, Tim talks to the acclaimed osteopath and PhD candidate, Alison Sim about her research on preventing chronic pain after injury, particularly in the context of compensable care. Alison discusses the stressful and distressing nature of the compensation claim process, which can significantly impact recovery. Her research reveals an overlap in frustrations experienced by both claimants and clinicians, particularly regarding delays in care and lack of support. Alison's team developed a beneficial 5-session telehealth intervention based on co-design workshops with claimants. Interviews with experienced clinicians highlighted a common pattern of initial feelings of being underskilled, seeking further education, and ultimately developing a sense of mastery in their role. Alison suggests improvements to the compensation system, including early access to high-quality care and streamlining the claims process. Her research emphasises the importance of addressing psychosocial aspects of injury recovery in compensable care settings to foster better outcomes for individuals. Keywords chronic pain, compensable care, claims process, early interventions, pain self-management, social support, clinician experience, complexity, uncertainty Takeaways The claims process in compensable care can be distressing for both claimants and clinicians, and it is a significant predictor of poor outcomes. Early interventions that provide information about the claims process, pain self-management strategies, and social support can help improve outcomes for claimants. Experienced clinicians working in compensable care can find fulfillment and a sense of mastery in managing complexity and uncertainty. Improving access to high-quality care, enhancing communication skills, and providing support for both claimants and clinicians are essential for better outcomes in compensable care. Further research and evaluation are needed to assess the impact of interventions and systemic changes in compensable care. Sound Bites "I am interested in looking at early interventions to prevent the development of chronic pain following injury and particularly interested in injury in the setting of compensable care." "The distress of interacting with the processes required to engage with a claim is a big predictor of poor outcomes." "People didn't understand the claims process and felt overwhelmed by it." Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 02:07 - PhD Research on Early Interventions in Compensable Care 08:19 - The Distressing Nature of the Claims Process 11:16 - Intervention: Providing Information, Self-Management Strategies, and Social Support 29:18 - Improving Outcomes in Compensable Care Useful Links Le Pub Website: www.lepubscientifique.com Become a Le Pub member: https://www.lepubscientifique.com/premium-membership Contact us: lepubscientifique@gmail.com Follow us: Twitter: @lepubscientifiq Instagram: @lepubscientifique LinkedIn: @LePubScientifique Join the Le Pub Community on Facebook: Le Pub Scientifique