Huberman Lab

Tools to Reduce & Manage Pain | Dr. Sean Mackey

2335 snips
Jan 15, 2024
Guest
Sean Mackey
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Sean Mackey, Chief of Pain Medicine at Stanford, explores the fascinating duality of pain—both physical and emotional. He discusses innovative pain management strategies like acupuncture, mindfulness, and nutritional approaches, while challenging the misunderstandings surrounding opioids and their role in treatment. Dr. Mackey also sheds light on how stress, memories, and even emotional connections influence pain perception, offering practical tools for individuals to better manage their pain and improve their quality of life.
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INSIGHT

Pain's Distributed Network

  • There isn't one pain center, but a network of brain regions contribute.
  • Common brain signatures do exist, enabling biomarkers for pain experience.
ADVICE

NSAID Use Guidance

  • Take NSAIDs at the lowest effective dose, ensuring you've eaten and stay hydrated.
  • Consult your doctor if you have GI, bleeding, kidney, or heart issues before using NSAIDs.
ANECDOTE

Rubbing: Natural Neuromodulation

  • Rubbing a painful area activates touch fibers, reducing pain signals in the spinal cord.
  • This "neuromodulation" is a natural pain relief mechanism, similar to TENS devices.
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