749: Dr. Rachel Zoffness: Pain Isn't What You Think It Is

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In this episode of Healthy Wealthy & Smart, Dr. Rachel Zoffness, MS, PhD, a leading pain scientist, discusses the complexities of pain, emphasizing that it is not merely a physical issue but a biopsychosocial phenomenon. She shares insights from her upcoming book, ‘Tell Me Where It Hurts,’ which aims to debunk myths surrounding pain and provide a comprehensive roadmap for healing. Dr. Zoffness highlights the importance of understanding the various factors that contribute to pain, including emotional and social aspects, and advocates for a multidisciplinary approach to pain management. The discussion also emphasizes the power of hope and the need for improved medical school education on pain science.

Takeaways

Pain is not just a physical phenomenon; it is biopsychosocial.
Understanding pain requires knowledge of biological, emotional, and social factors.
96% of medical schools lack dedicated pain education.
Patients with chronic pain need a roadmap for healing.
There is always a recipe for pain, and it can be changed.
Movement is a crucial ingredient in managing pain.
Engaging in joyful activities can reduce pain perception.
A multidisciplinary approach is essential for effective pain management.
Hope is a central theme in treating chronic pain.
Pain management should focus on empowering patients.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pain Science and Its Misconceptions
06:03 The Biopsychosocial Model of Pain
11:43 Understanding the Pain Recipe
17:50 Transforming Medical Education and Clinical Practice
23:51 Hope and Empowerment in Pain Management

More About Dr. Zoffness:

Dr. Rachel Zoffness is a pain scientist, pain psychologist and thought-leader revolutionizing the way we understand and treat pain. She’s an assistant clinical professor at UCSF, lectures at Stanford, and consults on the development of pain management programs around the world. She was trained at Brown, Columbia, UCSD, and Mt. Sinai Hospital, and is a Mayday Fellow. Her new book, Tell Me Where It Hurts, drops March 2026 and will be translated into more than 25 languages.