Is pain simply something that results from injury? And does it really go away when the injury is healed?
On 20 June 2024, The HEAD Foundation hosted an insightful event titled “Re-thinking Pain: Physiology and Psychology,” under its Dialogues series featuring Dr Stuart Derbyshire, an Associate Professor from the National University of Singapore’s Psychology Department, with a joint appointment at NUS College. The event delved into the complex nature of pain, challenging traditional views that tie pain directly to injury and highlighting the significant role of psychological and cultural factors.
Dr Derbyshire began the Dialogue by outlining pain’s biological and psychological aspects. He highlighted pain as a physical phenomenon deeply intertwined with our mental and social frameworks. The discussion sparked a re-evaluation of pain management strategies, underlining the importance of considering pain within a broader context of life challenges rather than solely as a symptom, injury, or disease.
The event culminated in a dynamic Q&A session, where the audience actively engaged in exploring the implications of pain as a multifaceted experience influenced by bodily sensations and psychosocial interpretations. The discussions not only encouraged a deeper understanding of pain but also fostered a critical perspective on how pain is perceived and managed in modern society.
Disclaimer: The views expressed by the speakers in this webinar are their own and do not represent the opinions of The HEAD Foundation.
