Beyond the Physical: Dr. Jordan Sudberg on Understanding the Psychology of Pain
When most people think of pain, they picture something purely physical: a throbbing back, a twisted ankle, or a surgical scar. But according to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a renowned pain management specialist, pain is far more than a biological response—it’s also deeply psychological.
“Pain is a subjective experience that’s shaped not just by what happens to the body, but by how the brain interprets it,” Dr. Sudberg explains. “Two people can have the same injury and report completely different levels of pain. That difference is often rooted in psychology.”
Understanding the psychological aspects of pain is essential for developing more effective and compassionate treatment strategies—especially for those suffering from chronic pain.
The Brain’s Role in Pain
All pain—whether from a stubbed toe or a spinal disorder—is processed in the brain. Sensory nerves send signals to the spinal cord and up to the brain, which then interprets those signals as painful (or not). But the brain’s interpretation is never purely mechanical.
Emotions, past experiences, mental health status, and even social context all influence how pain is perceived. “Pain is not just input—it’s perception,” says Dr. Sudberg. “And perception is influenced by many psychological factors.”
For example, people suffering from anxiety or depression often report more intense pain. Similarly, if someone associates pain with trauma or loss of control, their experience may be magnified. This isn’t “all in their head” in the dismissive sense—it’s a real, measurable interaction between mind and body.
Chronic Pain and the Emotional Loop
Chronic pain often creates a feedback loop that worsens over time. Here’s how Dr. Sudberg explains it:
- Initial pain occurs due to injury or illness.
- Emotional distress develops—fear of the pain returning, frustration over limitations, anxiety about the future.
- The brain becomes more sensitive to pain signals, anticipating pain even when the body isn’t injured.
- Pain perception intensifies, and so does emotional suffering.
“Breaking this cycle requires more than pills or physical therapy,” says Dr. Sudberg. “It takes a whole-person approach that includes psychological support.”
Tools for Addressing the Psychological Side of Pain
In his practice, Dr. Sudberg incorporates a range of mind-body techniques that help patients reframe and manage their pain experiences:
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps patients identify negative thought patterns—such as catastrophizing pain or feeling helpless—and replace them with healthier, more realistic perspectives.
2. Mindfulness and Meditation
Practices like mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) can reduce the emotional reactivity that often accompanies pain, helping the brain stay calm rather than triggering a fear-based response.
3. Biofeedback
This technique teaches patients to become more aware of their physiological responses—like heart rate or muscle tension—so they can learn to control them and reduce pain.
4. Stress Management Techniques
From deep breathing to progressive muscle relaxation, reducing stress can directly reduce pain intensity, particularly in tension-related conditions like migraines or fibromyalgia.
5. Support Groups and Counseling
For some patients, simply being heard and validated can have a profound impact on how they process pain.
The Power of Patient Mindset
Dr. Sudberg often reminds patients that their mindset plays a powerful role in recovery. “Belief in the possibility of improvement can be a treatment in itself,” he says. “Hopelessness increases pain, while hope helps reduce it.”
He also emphasizes that psychological care is not a substitute for medical care—but an essential complement. Addressing the emotional and mental health aspects of pain doesn’t invalidate the physical experience. Instead, it rounds out the treatment and helps restore quality of life.
The Future of Pain Management: Whole-Person Care
As the medical community continues to embrace a more holistic view of health, specialists like Dr. Jordan Sudberg are leading the charge toward integrated pain management—care that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological dimensions of pain equally.
“Pain is complex, but so is healing,” Dr. Sudberg concludes. “When we understand and treat the psychological side of pain, we give patients not just relief—but resilience.”
