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PTSD and chronic pain
By Ali Sekhavati 0 Comments chronic pain

PTSD and chronic pain

There is a complex and bidirectional relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and chronic pain. While they are distinct conditions, they can often coexist and influence each other. Here are some key points about the relationship between PTSD and chronic pain:

  1. Shared Neurobiology: PTSD and chronic pain share common underlying neurobiological mechanisms. Both conditions involve alterations in the central nervous system, including changes in brain regions associated with pain processing, emotional regulation, and stress responses.
  2. Trauma as a Trigger: Traumatic experiences, such as physical or emotional abuse, accidents, or combat, can be a trigger for the development of both PTSD and chronic pain. The experience of trauma can lead to physiological changes that increase the risk of developing chronic pain conditions.
  3. Psychological Factors: The psychological effects of trauma, such as heightened anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional distress, can contribute to the development or exacerbation of chronic pain. PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks or nightmares, can also intensify pain perception and increase pain severity.
  4. Overlapping Symptoms: There can be symptom overlap between PTSD and chronic pain, including sleep disturbances, fatigue, irritability, and difficulties with concentration and memory. These shared symptoms can further complicate diagnosis and treatment.
  5. Impact of Pain on PTSD Treatment: Chronic pain can interfere with the treatment of PTSD. Pain-related limitations and distress may hinder engagement in trauma-focused therapies or impede progress in addressing underlying trauma.
  6. Impact of PTSD on Pain Management: PTSD-related psychological distress can affect pain perception and pain coping strategies. Individuals with PTSD may be more sensitive to pain, experience higher pain intensity, and have difficulties with pain management.
  7. Comorbid Conditions: PTSD and chronic pain commonly coexist with other psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse. The presence of these comorbid conditions can further complicate symptom presentation and treatment approaches.

Given the complex interplay between PTSD and chronic pain, it is important to address both conditions simultaneously and adopt a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. This may involve a combination of therapies, such as trauma-focused therapies for PTSD, pain management strategies, psychological interventions, and medications tailored to address both the psychological and physical aspects of the conditions. It is recommended to work with a healthcare professional experienced in treating both PTSD and chronic pain to develop an individualized treatment plan.

PTSD and chronic pain

PTSD Awareness Month is observed in June each year to raise awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and to support individuals affected by this condition. The goal is to educate the public, reduce stigma, and promote understanding of PTSD symptoms, causes, and available resources for treatment and support. Here are some key points about PTSD Awareness Month:

  1. Purpose: The main objective of PTSD Awareness Month is to increase awareness and understanding of PTSD as a mental health condition. It aims to foster compassion and support for individuals living with PTSD and their families, while also promoting access to appropriate care and treatment.
  2. Education and Outreach: Various organizations, advocacy groups, mental health professionals, and communities organize events, campaigns, and initiatives to disseminate information about PTSD. These activities may include public talks, webinars, educational materials, and social media campaigns to spread awareness and knowledge.
  3. Destigmatization: PTSD Awareness Month aims to challenge the stigma associated with PTSD. By providing accurate information and personal stories, it strives to combat misconceptions, promote empathy, and encourage open conversations about mental health.
  4. Support and Resources: This observance month emphasizes the importance of available support and resources for individuals with PTSD. It highlights the significance of early detection, seeking professional help, and accessing appropriate treatment options. It also aims to connect individuals with support networks and community resources.
  5. Collaboration: PTSD Awareness Month encourages collaboration among mental health organizations, healthcare providers, government agencies, and community groups. These collaborations facilitate a collective effort to address PTSD, share best practices, and work towards improving access to care and support services.
  6. Veteran Focus: Since PTSD is prevalent among veterans due to traumatic experiences during military service, there is often a specific focus on supporting and raising awareness about PTSD in the veteran community during PTSD Awareness Month. Efforts are made to highlight the unique challenges faced by veterans with PTSD and ensure they receive the specialized care and support they need.

It’s important to note that awareness and understanding of PTSD should extend beyond the designated awareness month. Ongoing efforts throughout the year are crucial to supporting individuals with PTSD and working towards improved mental health care for all.

unraveling chronic pain
By Ali Sekhavati 1 Comments chronic pain

Unknown aspects of chronic pain

While significant progress has been made in understanding chronic pain, there are still several aspects that researchers are working to unravel. Here are some Unknown aspects of chronic pain:

  1. Underlying Mechanisms: The exact underlying mechanisms of chronic pain are not fully understood. While acute pain serves as a protective response to tissue damage or injury, chronic pain often persists beyond the expected healing time and involves complex interactions between the nervous system, immune system, and other physiological processes. Further research is needed to comprehensively understand the molecular, cellular, and neural processes that contribute to the development and maintenance of chronic pain.
  2. Individual Variability: Chronic pain presents differently in individuals, and there is substantial variability in pain experiences and responses to treatments. Factors such as genetics, psychological factors, environmental influences, and neuroplastic changes contribute to this variability. Understanding why some individuals develop chronic pain while others do not, and why responses to treatments vary, requires further investigation.
  3. Diagnosis and Objective Biomarkers: Currently, there is a lack of specific diagnostic tests or biomarkers for chronic pain. Diagnosis is primarily based on subjective reports from patients, which can be influenced by various factors and may lead to challenges in accurate diagnosis. The development of objective biomarkers could enhance diagnostic accuracy and provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of chronic pain.
  4. Treatment Optimization: Despite numerous treatment options available for chronic pain, achieving optimal pain management remains a challenge. Many individuals with chronic pain do not respond adequately to existing therapies, and there is a need for personalized approaches that consider individual characteristics and underlying pain mechanisms. Developing more effective treatments, including non-pharmacological interventions, is an ongoing research area.
  5. Long-Term Consequences: The long-term consequences of chronic pain on physical and mental health are still not fully understood. Chronic pain can have profound effects on an individual’s quality of life, mental well-being, functional abilities, and overall health outcomes. Further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of chronic pain and identify strategies for prevention and mitigation of its negative consequences.

Chronic pain, despite years of research and medical advancements, still harbors a multitude of unknown aspects. The complexities surrounding its development, persistence, and individual variability pose significant challenges for both patients and healthcare providers. While scientists have made substantial progress in understanding certain mechanisms, there are still gaps in our knowledge. The underlying molecular and neural processes that contribute to chronic pain remain enigmatic, and the reasons why some individuals develop chronic pain while others do not are yet to be fully deciphered. Furthermore, the long-term consequences of chronic pain on physical and mental health, as well as the most effective strategies for prevention and management, continue to elude us. Unraveling these unknown aspects of chronic pain is a crucial pursuit that holds the promise of enhancing the lives of millions affected by this debilitating condition.

gut health and chronic pain
By Ali Sekhavati 0 Comments chronic pain ,

Gut health and chronic pain

Emerging research suggests a potential link between gut health and chronic pain. The gut and the brain communicate through what is known as the gut-brain axis, and disruptions in the gut microbiome (the community of microorganisms in the digestive system) can influence various aspects of health, including pain perception.

Several factors contribute to this connection:

  1. Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the gut can contribute to systemic inflammation throughout the body, potentially triggering or exacerbating chronic pain conditions.
  2. Altered Gut Microbiome: Imbalances in the gut microbiome, known as dysbiosis, have been associated with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These conditions often coexist with chronic pain disorders, such as fibromyalgia and migraines.
  3. Increased Gut Permeability: When the gut barrier becomes compromised, it can allow harmful substances (such as bacteria and toxins) to leak into the bloodstream. This phenomenon, often referred to as “leaky gut,” may contribute to chronic pain by promoting inflammation and activating the immune system.
  4. Neurotransmitter and Hormonal Effects: The gut microbiome influences the production and metabolism of neurotransmitters and hormones that affect pain perception and mood. Disruptions in these pathways can contribute to the development or maintenance of chronic pain conditions.
gut health and chronic pain

While the understanding of the gut-brain axis and its relationship to chronic pain is still evolving, some strategies may help promote gut health and potentially alleviate symptoms:

  1. Probiotics and Prebiotics: Consuming probiotic-rich foods (e.g., yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) or taking probiotic supplements may help restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Prebiotic foods (e.g., fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains) can also promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.
  2. Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Emphasize foods that reduce inflammation, such as fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and spices like turmeric and ginger. Minimize or avoid processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates that can promote inflammation.
  3. Stress Management: Chronic stress can negatively impact gut health and contribute to chronic pain. Engaging in stress-reducing activities like exercise, meditation, deep breathing, or therapy can support both gut health and pain management.
  4. Individualized Approach: It’s important to work with healthcare professionals, such as gastroenterologists, pain specialists, or registered dietitians, to develop an individualized plan that addresses your unique concerns.

Remember, gut health is a complex and individualized topic, and the relationship between chronic pain and gut health is still being explored. Consulting with healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance and support for managing chronic pain and improving gut health.

Chronic Pain and Loneliness
By Ali Sekhavati 1 Comments chronic pain

Chronic Pain and Loneliness – Understanding the Connection

Living with chronic pain can be an isolating and challenging experience. It not only affects physical well-being but also has a profound impact on mental and emotional health. In recent years, research has shed light on the strong relationship between chronic pain and loneliness. This article explores the connection between these two phenomena and offers insights into their shared impact on individuals’ overall well-being.

  1. Chronic Pain: An Isolating Journey Chronic pain, characterized by persistent discomfort lasting for months or even years, can lead to limitations in daily activities and reduced participation in social events. The unpredictable nature of pain flares and the need for rest or medical appointments may cause individuals to withdraw from social interactions. As a result, chronic pain sufferers may experience a sense of isolation, feeling disconnected from friends, family, and the community.
  2. The Vicious Cycle of Loneliness: Loneliness, often defined as a subjective feeling of social isolation, can be both a cause and consequence of chronic pain. People living with chronic pain may experience loneliness due to reduced social support, difficulty in engaging in social activities, or feeling misunderstood by others who do not comprehend the extent of their pain. Conversely, chronic pain can lead to decreased participation in social gatherings, making it challenging to build and maintain meaningful relationships, ultimately perpetuating the cycle of loneliness.
  3. Psychological Impact: A Shared Burden Both chronic pain and loneliness can take a toll on mental health. Chronic pain sufferers are more prone to developing conditions like anxiety and depression, which can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness. The emotional burden of constant pain and limited social connections can lead to a negative spiral, impacting overall well-being and quality of life.
  4. Breaking the Cycle: Strategies for Support Recognizing the interplay between chronic pain and loneliness is crucial for finding effective strategies to break the cycle. Here are some approaches that can help:
Chronic Pain and Loneliness

a. Seeking Support: Engaging with support groups, online communities, or therapy can provide a sense of belonging and understanding. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can help alleviate feelings of isolation.

b. Open Communication: Communicating openly with loved ones about your chronic pain can help them better understand your challenges and offer the support you need. Education and empathy can bridge the gap between pain and social connections.

c. Self-Care and Coping Mechanisms: Prioritizing self-care, practicing relaxation techniques, and exploring pain management strategies recommended by healthcare professionals can improve physical and emotional well-being, boosting confidence and reducing feelings of loneliness.

  1. The Importance of Professional Help For those experiencing chronic pain and its accompanying loneliness, seeking professional help is essential. Healthcare providers can offer guidance, tailor pain management plans, and provide referrals to mental health specialists who can address the emotional impact of chronic pain.

Chronic pain and loneliness share a complex relationship, with each influencing and exacerbating the other. Recognizing this connection is crucial for individuals, loved ones, and healthcare professionals. By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of chronic pain, individuals can find effective ways to manage their pain, rebuild social connections, and improve their overall well-being. Remember, you are not alone, and support is available to help you navigate this challenging journey.

non-cancer chronic pain
By Ali Sekhavati 0 Comments chronic pain, Fibromyalgia, pain , , , , , ,

7 Most Common Non-Cancer Chronic Pain Conditions

As we all know, pain is one of the most common reasons for all the visits to physicians in different settings all around the world. Acute pain is a sign of injury and insult to the body and pain is one of the defending mechanisms to protect us against harmful stimuli. Like any other system in our body we have a control system to stop nerve stimulation when the insult is over, but this can fail in many ways like many other systems in our body. This is the etymology of non-cancer chronic pain.

non-cancer chronic pain

1- Headache

Chronic headache is one of the most debilitating conditions which affect millions of people all over the world. Many people lose their jobs and are not able to do their activities of daily life due this medical issue. About 4% of the adults are suffering from this condition and women are affected 2-3 times more than men. Definition of chronic headache is 15 days or more of headache per month for over 3 months. There are many conditions that can cause this problem like migraine, tension headache, hemicranias continua, rebound headache and many more.

2- Back Pain

This is one of the most common reasons of regular visits to primary care, emergency rooms and many other disciplines. More than 84% of adult have experience back pain. Many people lose their job and quality of life due to back pain. When pain is present for 12 or more weeks, we call it chronic back pain.

3- Neck Pain

Neck pain is another very common reason for so many visits per year. Prevalence of neck pain is pretty close to back pain. Many people just have axial pain and some have extremities and neurologic symptoms while many patients have both.

4- Fibromyalgia

This is a very common condition and very hard to treat. These patients usually have chronic pain, fatigue and insomnia. Many people are affected by Fibromyalgia and often remained undiagnosed for a long period of time.

5- Knee Pain

About 25% of adults are affected by chronic knees pain. This condition can be very debilitating and affect activities of daily life, work productivity, quality of life and life satisfaction as a whole.

6- Shoulder Pain

Sport, Motor Vehicle Accident and work related injuries are very common and many patients are suffering from chronic shoulders pain.

7- Hip Pain

Chronic hip pain affects mobility and productivity of millions of people and has a huge impact on many people’s lives.

Read the full article by Dr. Ashtarani here.

Turmeric for pain relief
By Ali Sekhavati 0 Comments chronic pain, diet, Natural pain relief, pain, supplement ,

Turmeric for Pain Relief

Turmeric with powerful anti-inflammatory effects is one of the best natural remedies for pain relief that can be found in almost every home. A relative of ginger, this vivid yellow-orange spice is common in Indian, Southeast Asian, and Middle Eastern cooking.

Curcumin – the main active ingredient in Turmeric – has received worldwide attention for its multiple health benefits, which appear to act primarily through its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

If you have a headache, backache, knee pain or any other type of pain, your first impulse may be to reach for a pain medication.

While certain circumstances may require a prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication, it may also be possible to find some of the relief you need from a variety of natural pain relievers. Many herbs and spices have a long history of being used to relieve inflammation and pain.

These natural pain relievers fall under a category of treatment known as alternative medicine.

Relieving pain and inflammation with natural remedies has a lot of benefits, but keep in mind that these natural remedies can sometimes interfere with other medications you are taking.

And also not all natural pain relievers have been well studied in humans, especially when it comes to dosage.

If you’re dealing with pain or chronic issues, it’s best to talk with a doctor before taking any natural remedies. Holistic or whole health professionals, which are physicians who base their treatments on holistic(whole health) principles.

Turmeric for pain relief

Turmeric as a natural pain reliever

Turmeric — and especially its most active compound, curcumin — have many scientifically proven health benefits, such as the potential to improve heart health and prevent against Alzheimer’s and cancer.

Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant.

These benefits are best achieved when curcumin is combined with agents such as piperine, which increase its bioavailability significantly.

Did you know?

Ingesting curcumin by itself does not lead to the associated health benefits due to its poor bioavailability, which appears to be primarily due to poor absorption, rapid metabolism, and rapid elimination.

top pain clinics in Toronto
By Ali Sekhavati 2 Comments chronic pain, pain , , ,

Top pain management clinics in Toronto

An estimated 7.6 million, or one in five people in Canada (across the lifespan), live with chronic pain. If you’re suffering from chronic pain, you should consider visiting a pain management clinic. In this article we introduce some of the top pain clinics in Toronto.

Pain Clinics with integrative approach

Chronic pain, like other chronic diseases, is best understood within a bio-psychosocial framework, and its treatment should integrate pharmacological, physical, psychological, spiritual, self-management, and other approaches, as appropriate. So it’s important to choose a clinic with a multidisciplinary approach to chronic pain treatment.

top pain clinics in Toronto

Here is a list of pain managements clinics in the greater Toronto area (GTA):

Upper Room Clinic

The Upper Room Clinic has ultimately become Dr. Kostovis’s life path. Originally an emergency physician, her path to treating chronic pain grew into a mission. She believes in providing peace and fulfillment in the healing experience.

Dr. Kostovis’s practice uses PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections to treat chronic pain. PRP advocates the healing process by helping the body create blood clots.

Mount Sinai Hospital pain management center

The centre offers a range of pain management services including management of the following pain conditions:

  • Neuropathic pain
  • Widespread body pain
  • Pre- and post-surgical pain management (Transitional Pain Service)
  • Pre- and post-pregnancy pain management (Pain in Pregnancy Program)
  • Complex opioid management and tapering
  • Musculoskeletal pain
  • Craniofacial and headache pain
  • Dental and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain
  • Cancer pain
  • Breast pain program

Other services include:

  • Diagnostic and therapeutic nerve blocks
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Psychiatry consultation
  • Consultative support with an occupational therapist (OT) and social work
  • Pain education sessions

The Neurological Institute of Brain, Body, and Being

The Neurological Institute of Brain, Body, and Being (NIb3) is a Toronto based rehabilitation institute that specializes in non-invasive, drug-free therapies. Our goal is to address the origin and cause of your complaints as opposed to simply treating symptoms. Every brain is unique and we conduct thorough neurological assessments that involve Quantitative EEG (qEEG) brain mapping, VNG (eye movement quantifications), psychophysiological profiling, a full neurological examination, and an extensive intake to build individualized treatment plans. We specialize in neurofeedback therapy, biofeedback therapy, diet recommendations to support an optimized neurological health, chiropractic treatment, and vestibular rehabilitation techniques. The neurofeedback therapy we offer at NIb3 in Toronto is very specific and focuses on 1, 2, 4, and 19 channels EEG with the goal of normalizing your brain’s activity. Our biofeedback therapy in Toronto involves EMG (muscle relaxation) exercises, heart rate variability (HRV) training, and stabilization of your body’s biophysiology. We take a wholistic approach to neurological rehabilitation and helping optimize your brain, body, and being.

Toronto Poly Clinic

Toronto Poly Clinic is a pain clinic with responsibility in mind. We believe in a Multidisciplinary philosophy of pain management. We specialize in Chronic Pain and its effects on the human body. Our goal is to formulate a treatment plan to bring lasting relief to our patients. The purpose of this multidisciplinary program is to improve both the physical and psychological effects of pain.

Toronto Poly Clinic offers a range of pain management services including:

  • Interventional Pain Management
  • Prolotherapy
  • Pain Reprocessing Therapy
  • Platelet Rich Plasma – PRP
  • Comprehensive Pain Management
  • Integrative Chronic Pain Management
  • Joint Pain Program
  • Medical Cannabis Program
  • Mindfulness Teaching

Untreated pain results in poor outcomes for individuals, families, and communities

Chronic pain is largely invisible, and those affected often feel disbelieved and stigmatized. Talk to your family physician if you suffer from a pain that has been with you for more than 3 months and ask for a referral to a pain management clinic.

mind body temple
By Ali Sekhavati 1 Comments body, book, chronic pain, mind, pain

Mind-Body Temple: A Self-Directed Approach to Managing Chronic Pain and Elevating your life

This book is designed to take you through a journey of healing for managing your chronic pain and elevating your life. 

It starts with some information about chronic pain and an overview of different conditions that cause chronic pain. This is followed by describing the impact of chronic pain on life, and how to manage it through elevating your life force with healthy living skills and mental wellbeing practices.

Buy Mind-Body Temple: A Self-Directed Approach to Managing Chronic Pain and Elevating your life by Dr. Kevin Rod on Amazon

Developing your Mind-Body Temple through elevating your health and life will pave your way to your goals. Organizing your mind is organizing your life. Working on your physical state will change your state in life. Identifying obstacles between you and your goals, and learning ways to negotiate them, brings you closer to reaching your goals.

There are many Mind-Body skills and disciplines that can help you on this journey. Multiple factors can play significant role in leading you closer to (or farther from) your goals, everything from what you eat, to how active you are, to your perspective in life, to how you prioritize your time on short-term goals, to the quality of your sleep, to your relationships and your social network.

Your Mind-Body Temple can safely take you to the goals of your life. Your purpose in life can be fulfilled through this path. The results are satisfaction and a sense of fulfilment in life – the mother of all success and happiness.

Mind-Body Temple


My goal is to assist you on this journey. My hope is that this information will help you to reach your goal in life and fulfil your purpose. I hope you will never feel alone and join many others on this journey of healing to support and empower each other.

The information on this book is based on scientific evidence, my 32 years’ experience in medical practice, materials gathered by my team for patient education at our clinic, as well as lessons I have learned from my own journey of healing. I have tried to provide reliable references that are accessible by patients at each section.

I trust the skills you will learn on this journey will not only help you with your current medical condition, but these will also stay with you for the rest of your life as you face other life challenges. I hope you find this journey helpful. If only one life is saved or one suffering is ended, all our collective efforts are warranted.

What I loved most about Mind-Body Temple was the author’s caring approach which shone through in his writing. There is so much misinformation regarding chronic pain that it is often dismissed as a mental condition. The sufferer then feels the damaging effects of this mindset when they are either ignored or gaslighted by their health care provider. Dr. Kevin Rod used his experience with chronic pain to develop a holistic, gentle, and compassionate plan.

Stephanie Elizabeth has written a full review of this book here.