What is Pain and Where Does it Live? — Mark Olson

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In this episode of the Mindful Movement Podcast, host Les Raymond welcomes Dr. Mark Olson, a neuroscientist and pain management expert, and founder of Dr. Olson. Dr. Olson holds a PhD in neuroscience and has a background in manual therapy. He specializes in understanding how pain is processed by the nervous system and how trauma, both emotional and physical, can influence pain perception. Dr. Olson is also a teacher and director of courses on trauma-informed care and the neuroscience of pain.

Dr. Olson joins us to discuss his extensive research and work in the field of chronic pain. He explains the complexities of pain, how it is not always linked to physical injury, and the role of the nervous system in chronic pain conditions. He shares insights into how lifestyle, movement, and emotional processing can contribute to pain relief. Dr. Olson also explores emerging non-opioid treatments for chronic pain, such as oxytocin and ketamine, and provides valuable strategies for holistically managing pain.

Expect to Learn

1. The relationship between chronic pain and the nervous system, including how pain can occur without physical injury.

2. The emotional and psychological factors that contribute to chronic pain and how trauma can impact the nervous system.

3. The role of oxytocin and ketamine in managing pain without relying on opioids.

4. Why small, consistent movement throughout the day is often more effective than trying to achieve perfect posture.

5. How manual therapy and bodywork can help address pain through neurological mechanisms rather than tissue manipulation.

Episode Breakdown with Suggested Timestamps:

 [00:00] – Introduction & Dr. Olson’s Background

[00:44] – What Sparked Dr. Olson’s Interest in Pain and Neuroscience

[01:48] – Understanding Pain: The Difference Between Tissue Damage and Pain Perception

[05:27] – The Role of the Nervous System in Chronic Pain

[06:55] – Pain and the Limbic System: Emotional Components of Pain

[10:10] – The Importance of Trauma in Pain Perception

[13:10] – Pain, Trauma, and the Body’s Response

[16:10] – The Misconception of the Body ‘Storing’ Trauma in Tissues

[18:30] – Posture and Chronic Pain: How Emotional Suppression Affects the Body

[21:40] – Movement’s Role in Pain Management

[23:45] – Oxytocin and Its Potential in Chronic Pain Relief

[27:00] – How Stress and Hormonal Responses Impact Pain Sensitivity

[31:15] – The Role of Cannabinoids and Non-Opiate Alternatives in Pain Relief

[36:00] – The Interplay of Psychology, Hormones, and Pain

[40:05] – Understanding How Oxytocin and Ketamine Could Be Used for Pain Relief

[43:30] – How Understanding Pain Can Empower Patients to Manage Their Condition

[47:50] – The Importance of Educating Pain Sufferers and Practitioners

[52:00] – Conclusion & Dr. Olson’s Final Thoughts on Pain and Healing

Connect with Dr. Mark Olson:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-olson/ 
• Website: https://www.dr-olson.com/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.markolson/ 
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