What is Pain?

- Description
- Curriculum
- Reviews

The course was edited and reviewed by Irina Duff, MD, PhD
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Dr. Irina Duff received her medical degree from the I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University and her Ph.D. from the Georg-August University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.
She is currently a neurology fellow at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
She is a recipient of the prestigious Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award (NRSA) T32 Research Training Grant.
In early stages of her career, she has already authored and co-authored more than 15 publications in the high-ranking peer-reviewed journals.
She is a Peer-Reviewer for numerous journals including the Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface journal and Frontiers in Neuroscience.
She has a passion for teaching and mentoring medical students and residents. She has already made a solid contribution to developing several NANS Educational Initiatives and establishing the NANS research collaboration platform, including the full day pediatric neuromodulation course at the last 2025 Annual NANS conference in Orlando, FL.
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Explore the science, psychology, and hope behind pain in this powerful course. Understand pain’s purpose, how it’s processed, why it persists, and the future of pain management through expert insights and stunning visuals. #UnderstandingPain #PainManagement #Neuroscience
Pain is more than a sensation — it’s a vital signal, a complex biological and emotional experience that protects and shapes us. In this course, Understanding Pain, we dive deep into the science of pain, from its roots in the nervous system to its powerful role in survival and healing. Through vivid storytelling, expert insights, and stunning visuals, we challenge common misconceptions and reveal pain as a dynamic, life-saving process rather than a mere symptom of damage.
Across seven carefully crafted lessons, you’ll journey through the intricate pathways of pain perception, the brain’s remarkable ability to modulate pain, and the many types of pain that affect our lives. We explore why pain sometimes persists, the latest innovations in pain management, and how biology, psychology, and social factors intertwine to shape every pain experience. You’ll discover how understanding pain on a deeper level can open doors to better care, healing, and hope.
Whether you are living with pain, working in healthcare, or simply curious about how our bodies and brains work, this course empowers you with knowledge and compassion. By embracing the true story of pain, we can transform fear into understanding — and understanding into healing. Join us on this eye-opening journey to rethink pain and reimagine recovery.
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1The Truth About Pain: It’s More Than You Think
Dive deep into the intricate world of pain in our latest video, "Understanding Pain: Our Body's Alarm System." Experience a powerful journey that unravels the complexities of pain, from its biological roots to its vital role in our survival. Through stunning visuals and heartfelt narration, we explore how pain acts as a protective mechanism, urging us to heal and connect.
#UnderstandingPain #PainIsProtection #HealingJourney #Neuroscience #MentalHealthAwareness #PainManagement
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2How Does the Body Perceive Pain? / The Intricate Journey of Pain: From Thorn to Brain
Dive into the fascinating world of pain perception with our animated exploration, "The Intricate Journey of Pain: From Thorn to Brain." This video breaks down the complex systems that allow us to detect, transmit, and process pain. Starting from nociceptors in the skin to the brain's interpretation, you'll discover how mechanical, thermal, and chemical stimuli activate our body's intricate pain pathways. With engaging visuals and enlightening narration, experience how pain becomes not just a signal, but a deeply personal journey shaped by our emotions and biology.
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3Modulating Pain: The Brain's Secret Power
Explore the fascinating world of pain perception in our latest video, "Modulating Pain: The Brain's Secret Power." Discover how your brain serves as a dynamic modulator, actively shaping your pain experience. Through stunning 3D animations and insightful narration, we delve into the crucial role of the Periaqueductal Gray (PAG) and the influence of natural opioids like endorphins. Learn how psychological factors such as attention and emotion can alter pain perception, and uncover the science behind placebo effects.
#PainManagement #Neuroscience #BrainHealth #PainPerception #Endorphins #Psychology
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4Decoding Pain: Types and Treatments
Discover the intricate world of pain in our latest video, "Decoding Pain: Types and Treatments." 🌟 From acute to chronic, neuropathic to inflammatory pain, we break down the various types of pain and their unique characteristics. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment, empowering you to take control of your health.
#TypesOfPain #PainManagement #ChronicPain #NeuropathicPain #HealthEducation #UnderstandingPain #PainAwareness
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5Why Does Pain Sometimes Persist?
Ever wonder why pain sometimes persists even after injuries heal? In this enlightening video, we delve deep into the science behind chronic pain and explore its complex mechanisms. Discover how peripheral and central sensitization transform your nervous system into a source of pain, and learn about maladaptive plasticity, where the brain rewires itself to "lock" in pain. With expert insights, we reveal how understanding these processes can empower you to reclaim control over your life.
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6Toward Better Pain Management: A New Era of Relief
Discover the transformative advancements in pain management in our video, "Toward Better Pain Management: A New Era of Relief." We explore groundbreaking neurobiology research, innovative pharmacological therapies, and cutting-edge neuromodulation techniques that are revolutionizing how we approach pain. Learn about the power of behavioral therapies and targeted interventional techniques that aim to address pain at its source. With a focus on personalized medicine, we highlight the future of treatments tailored to individual needs.
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7Final Thoughts: Rethinking Pain
Explore the intricate world of pain in our thought-provoking video, "Final Thoughts: Rethinking Pain." Join us as we delve into the complex interplay of biology, psychology, and social factors that shape our understanding of pain. Through powerful visuals and heartfelt narratives, we challenge conventional perspectives, advocating for a compassionate approach to pain care. Discover how integrating empathy with scientific insights can lead to more effective, personalized treatment options.
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8Understanding Pain