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Understanding persistent pain

Plain-English explanations from 16 years of working with people in pain, grounded in published research. A growing library, with new articles added as it builds.

David Mc GettiganSports Rehabilitator (BSc Hons), Founder of Bigger Than Pain

Understanding pain

Why persistent pain behaves the way it does, and why that matters for what you do next.

5 min read

Chronic Pain but a Normal MRI or Scan: What It Can and Can't Tell You

A clear scan is good news, but it doesn't mean your pain isn't real. What scans can and can't show, and why persistent pain is rarely about one thing.

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8 min read

Chronic Pain When You've Tried Everything: Where to Start

Tried physio, scans, tablets and every tip online? Here's why persistent pain feels impossible to solve, and a calmer, clearer place to start.

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20 min read

Can You Recover From Chronic Pain? What It Really Involves

Many people get better, but rarely in a straight line. What recovering from chronic pain involves, what self-management means, and how to start.

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Flares and setbacks

What tends to set pain off, and how to get back on track when it does.

10 min read

Why Does Chronic Pain Flare When Life Gets Stressful?

Stress, poor sleep and life upheaval can turn persistent pain up. Why it happens, why it's normal to fall off track, and how to get back on it.

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Body regions

Common questions about specific areas, with gentle movements to explore.

8 min read

Neck and Upper Back Pain: Why It Lingers and Gentle Movements That Help

Stiff, sore neck and upper back with no clear injury? Why it's so common, why posture usually isn't the villain, and four gentle movements to try.

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Common situations