Dr. Jordan Sudberg Dispels the Myths: What You Really Need to Know About Pain Management

In the world of medicine, few topics are as misunderstood—and often misrepresented—as pain management. Despite advances in treatment and research, misinformation continues to shape how people approach their pain, delaying effective care and, in some cases, worsening outcomes.

Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a highly respected pain management specialist, has dedicated his career to changing the narrative. Drawing on years of clinical experience and patient advocacy, he regularly educates the public and his peers on the truth behind common pain management myths.

“There’s so much fear, stigma, and confusion surrounding pain and how we treat it,” says Dr. Sudberg. “Patients deserve to know what’s true, what’s outdated, and what actually works.”

In this article, Dr. Sudberg walks us through some of the most widespread myths about pain management—and the facts that can help you take control of your care.

Myth #1: Pain is just a natural part of aging.

Fact: While certain aches and conditions like arthritis are more common with age, chronic pain should never be considered “normal.”

Dr. Sudberg explains: “We often hear older adults say, ‘It’s just part of getting old.’ But pain is a signal that something isn’t right. No one should have to live with untreated or under-treated pain—regardless of age.”

Modern pain management strategies are specifically designed to help seniors maintain quality of life without over-relying on medications.

Myth #2: If you can’t see it, the pain must not be real.

Fact: Pain is a subjective experience—it doesn’t always show up on X-rays or lab tests, but that doesn’t make it any less real.

This myth often causes patients to feel dismissed or invalidated. Dr. Jordan Sudberg emphasizes the importance of compassionate listening and comprehensive evaluation.

“Pain isn’t always visible, but it can be debilitating,” he says. “Clinicians must listen to their patients’ descriptions and dig deeper to understand the full picture.”

Myth #3: Opioids are the only effective option for serious pain.

Fact: Opioids can be useful in certain situations, especially acute pain or post-surgical care—but they are far from the only or best solution for chronic pain.

Dr. Sudberg advocates for a multimodal approach, which might include:

• Non-opioid medications
  
• Physical therapy
  
• Nerve blocks
  
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  
• Acupuncture or other integrative treatments
  

“Pain is complex, and so should be its treatment,” he notes. “Opioids have their place, but overreliance creates risk. We now have safer, more sustainable strategies.”

Myth #4: If I exercise or move, it will make my pain worse.

Fact: In many cases, movement is one of the most effective ways to reduce pain—especially for conditions like back pain, joint issues, and fibromyalgia.

“Sedentary habits often intensify pain,” explains Dr. Sudberg. “The right kind of movement, under professional guidance, strengthens muscles, improves circulation, and boosts mood—all of which can reduce pain.”

Physical therapists often work hand-in-hand with pain specialists to design gentle, effective routines that promote healing without aggravating injuries.

Myth #5: All pain is physical.

Fact: Emotional and psychological factors can significantly influence pain perception. Stress, anxiety, and depression don’t just accompany pain—they can amplify it.

“Pain lives in both the body and the mind,” says Dr. Jordan Sudberg. “Ignoring the emotional toll means we’re only treating half the problem.”

This is why many pain management plans include support from mental health professionals, mindfulness training, and stress-reduction techniques.

Myth #6: You just have to live with chronic pain.

Fact: While chronic pain may not always be curable, it is very treatable. The goal isn’t always to eliminate pain entirely, but to reduce its impact on your life.

“Pain relief doesn’t mean zero pain—it means better sleep, more mobility, and fewer flare-ups,” Dr. Sudberg emphasizes. “We aim for realistic, empowering goals that restore quality of life.”

Modern approaches to chronic pain combine science, compassion, and personalization—far beyond the outdated ‘just deal with it’ mentality.

Final Thoughts from Dr. Jordan Sudberg

Pain may be universal, but the myths surrounding it don’t have to be. With accurate information and a proactive care team, patients can find paths to relief they may have never known were possible.

Dr. Jordan Sudberg urges anyone living with ongoing pain to seek support and advocate for themselves. “Don’t accept pain as your default. You deserve to feel heard, to be helped, and to heal.”

By replacing myth with fact, patients are better equipped to make informed choices—and find the relief they’ve been searching for.