In this episode, we interviewed Angelo State University’s very own Dr. Kendra Nicks, COMT. We discussed how the brain and pain work together. We also discussed how we as physical therapists can impact the social aspect of the biopsychosocial model and those who are in a low socioeconomic status or those who can’t afford health care. We also discussed telehealth and how we can provide that care to those in more rural areas or for those who cannot get to healthcare as easily. Dr. Nicks also discussed how to build therapeutic alliance other than using manual therapy, such as body language, being present, and scripting. We also discussed how mental health affects physical health oh a physiological basis, from the nervous to the respiratory system and how our emotions affect pain. We also delve into why is low back pain the most common regarding chronic pain, rather than the wrist or other joints.

Reach out: knicks@angelo.edu

Book referenced at the end: “Painful Yarns” by Lorimer Moseley

Another helpful book: "Transforming the Brain in Pain; Neuroplastic Transformation; Your brain on pain" by Michael H. Moskowitz, MD and Marla D. Golden, DO

Authors referenced: Adrian Lowe, David butler, Rachel Zoffness