Since joining PAIN GEEKS, not only has my understanding of pain evolved, but the way I perceive reality itself has shifted. One of the biggest steps for me has been learning about the concept of predictive processing, which applies to all our senses, including pain. Even though I work as a musculoskeletal therapist and don’t explicitly treat chronic pain patients, I find these ideas incredibly useful. They not only shape how I approach treatment, but also make me a better listener. I can finally make more sense of what patients are telling me when they share their stories.

What I enjoy most is how philosophy is woven into so many of our discussions. Concepts like phenomenology, first-person experience, embodiment, and affordances (to name a few) are slowly becoming less abstract and more practical for me. They give me new ways of thinking about what my patients feel and how I can meet them where they are.  I love the challenge of these conversations, sharing thoughts, doubts, and emotions while trying to make sense of this mysterious phenomenon called pain.

And maybe most important: it’s comforting to know I’m not alone on this journey. Having like-minded fellow travelers makes the whole exploration richer and so much more fun.