Shift Happens Podcast
Understanding and Overcoming Chronic Pain: A Conversation with Katie from BEAT Pain Approach
In this episode of Shift Happens, we welcome Katie, a pain therapist and the founder of the BEAT Pain Approach. Katie shares her personal journey with chronic pain, her insights on pain perception, and how she helps others navigate their own pain through her innovative approach. From understanding the neuroscience behind pain to exploring the emotional and psychological factors, Katie provides valuable knowledge and practical steps for anyone dealing with persistent pain. Join us for a deep dive into the world of pain management and discover new ways to reclaim your life from chronic pain.
00:00 Introduction to Today’s Episode
00:32 Understanding Pain: A Complex Perception
02:08 Katie’s Personal Journey with Pain
04:08 The Turning Point: Discovering New Perspectives on Pain
13:05 The Biopsychosocial Model of Pain
16:28 Katie’s Approach to Pain Management
27:22 The Importance of Community and Unity
27:52 Advice for Chronic Pain Sufferers
29:42 The Opioid Crisis and Personal Stories
30:46 The Pain Epidemic and Modern Medicine
32:21 The Impact of Stress and Lifestyle on Pain
34:39 Programs and Memberships for Pain Management
38:57 The Connection Between Emotions and Physical Pain
41:53 The Power of the Subconscious Mind
47:17 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom
I’ve featured on the Everyday Supermoms podcast
In this episode we how stress, emotional health and self care intertwine and the importance of listening to the body. This episode is a powerful reminder of how emotional and physical health are deeply connected and how self-care is essential for thriving in motherhood.
Key takeaway: Chronic pain and Stress: Katie discusses how chronic pain, like her back pain, is often linked to stress and emotional health, revealing how unresolved emotions can manifest physically.
Katie shares her BEAT pain methodology which combines brain education, energy (nutrition and sleep) activity (exercise and movement) and therapy to help overcome pain.
The power of self care: Taking the time to recharge and prioritise self care helps prevent burnout and improve our ability to handle stress and motherhood.
Redefining motherhood: Katie’s story shoes how motherhood isn’t about perfection; it’s about learning to embrace the “new you” and shifting expectations to reduce guilt.
Mind-body connection: Recognising the connection between our emotional and physical states is key in managing chronic pain and overall well-being.
Key quotes:
“Pain is not just physical; it’s a reflection of everything we’re carrying – emotionally and mentally.”
“You don’t bounce back after having kids; you become a new person and embracing that new identity is the key to thriving.”
“Our energy is like a reservoir – when it’s full we an give, but when it’s empty, all we can dish out is sludge.”
“You’re not meant to enjoy every minute of motherhood. It’s tough, and that’s okay. Cut yourself some slack.”
“Self-care is not a luxury. It’s essential. It’s how we refill our cup so we can give from a place of abundance.”
I’ve featured on a podcast
In this conversation Hayley and I discuss our take on different ways we can overcome persistent pain. Hayley is a personal trainer and nutritionist so it is interesting hearing things from her point of view. For example she shares her advice on what nutritional supplements would be good for someone fighting persistent pain.
I’ve featured on a podcast
Clare is a Naturopath and personal growth coach who helps people reclaim their health and happiness. In these 2 episodes we talk about how my journey through persistent back pain has helped me to create the BEAT pain methodology. I open up about how some of the struggles I experienced as a solo mum, military wife and expat in Saudi Arabia have contributed to my pain journey.
The first episode we discuss how my story of being diagnosed with degenerative disc disease whilst serving as a physical education officer in the RAF led me to create the BEAT pain program. What was my turning point towards recovery and how I overcame my pain?
The second episode I explain more about what the BEAT pain methodology is based on everything I’ve learned in the last 12 years.
