The Pain Epidemic and Biopsychosocial Model
Presented by Adriaan Louw
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Pain is at epidemic proportions. One reason for this is the way we view pain. Traditional biomedical models fuel many misbeliefs regarding pain, and a more well-rounded biopsychosocial model is needed to address pain. This is an introductory course for athletic trainers, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, social workers, and other licensed medical providers in inpatient, outpatient, home health, and school settings. Learners will come away from the course with a working knowledge of the various constructs of the biopsychosocial model and how one can leverage this model to better serve patients in pain.
Courses in this series include:
1. The Pain Epidemic and Biopsychosocial Model
2. The Neuroscience of Pain
3. Introduction to Pain Neuroscience Education
4. Application of Pain Neuroscience Education
5. PNE+: Nonpharmacological Approach to Treating Pain
Meet your instructor
Adriaan Louw
Adriaan earned his undergraduate degree, master’s degree, and PhD in physiotherapy from Stellenbosch University in Cape Town, South Africa. He is an adjunct faculty member at St. Ambrose University and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, teaching pain science. Adriaan has taught throughout the US and internationally for 25…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. The Pain and Opioid Epidemic
This chapter will cover the global pain epidemic, the US opioid epidemic, and the acceleration of the pain epidemic caused by COVID-19. We will also discuss aspects of chronic pain and provider burnout.
2. Traditional Pain Models
This chapter will cover the Cartesian and biomedical models of pain. The history of these models and their impact on future medical system development, as well as an understanding of and interaction with pain, will be described in detail.
3. The Biomedical Model for Pain
This chapter will describe the anatomy, pathoanatomy, and biomechanical aspects of the biomedical pain model. It will lay the foundation for understanding the final chapters of this course.
4. Clinician Perspective: Biomedical Model for Pain
This chapter will cover the clinical aspects of the biomedical pain model. Students will learn the history and value of the biomedical model as well as hear real-world examples of how the biomedical model is utilized and impacts patients today.
5. The Biopsychosocial Model for Pain
This chapter will expose students to the biopsychosocial model for pain and its implications for pain mechanisms, evolutionary biology, fear avoidance, and representation and threat appraisal. Students will begin to understand the complex nature of peeling back the layers of pain to better assist their patients/clients.
