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    Communicating Pain Effectively to Support Recovery [1 hr/pt CPD]

    • Communicating Pain Effectively to Support Recovery [1 hr/pt CPD]

    • Communicating Pain Effectively to Support Recovery [1 hr/pt CPD]

    • Communicating Pain Effectively to Support Recovery- Reflection / Case-Based Questions

Summary and Learning Outcomes

Summary
 Effective communication is a cornerstone of contemporary pain management. This course focuses on how chiropractors can translate complex pain science into clear, meaningful, and clinically useful explanations that support patient understanding, engagement, and self-efficacy. Drawing on modern concepts such as pain as a protective output of the brain, neurotags, and bioplasticity, the course demonstrates how language, metaphors, and explanations can influence pain experiences and clinical outcomes. Participants will explore common communication pitfalls, including nocebo effects and fear-based messaging, and learn strategies for delivering pain education that is accurate, empowering, and aligned with a biopsychosocial framework. The course emphasises practical application, helping chiropractors integrate pain science education seamlessly into consultations to support behavioural change, adherence, and long-term recovery.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Explain pain using contemporary pain science concepts in language appropriate for patients in clinical practice.

2. Describe how beliefs, expectations, and context influence pain experiences and recovery.

3. Use metaphors and educational strategies to communicate complex pain mechanisms clearly and effectively.

4. Identify and avoid communication strategies that may inadvertently reinforce fear or disability.

5. Enhance patient self-efficacy and engagement through targeted pain science education.

6. Integrate pain education into routine chiropractic care to support long-term, recovery-oriented outcomes.

Instructor(s)

Julia Gover

Julia Gover is a pain specialist, educator, and TEDx speaker with an MSc in Pain Science and Management. She qualified as a chiropractor from AECC University College in 2012 and spent over a decade in clinical practice, including running her own clinic, supporting people with persistent and complex pain. Her clinical work led naturally into education and leadership, and she now serves as Director of Continuing Professional Development for the Royal College of Chiropractors. Julia also works with the Flippin’ Pain Campaign and is passionate about making pain science accessible, hopeful, and relevant, delivering engaging, evidence-based talks shaped by both clinical expertise and lived experience.