Pain podcast explores the science behind chronic pain

A new podcast episode brings together leading pain researchers and people living with chronic pain in discussions unravelling why chronic pain is so hard to treat.

The latest episode of PAINCAST - the official podcast of the neuropathic pain research consortium PAINSTORM - was recorded in front of a live audience at the University of Reading’s Great Hall and co-produced by Pain Research Reading. The episode is now available on YouTube, the PAINSTORM website and all major podcast platforms. 

The recording was part of The Puzzle of Pain public engagement day led by the University of Reading’s Dr Rich Harrison, from the School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences. The event brought together leading international pain experts, researchers and members of the University and its community for demonstrations, art exhibitions, and talks about pain science. 

Dr Rich Harrison said: "One of the greatest improvements we are seeing in pain research over the past 10 years, is the acknowledgement that quality research requires the involvement of patients, the public and multiple disciplines working together. We hope that the Puzzle of Pain is the representation of these core values and we are delighted to be able to host such a unique event here on our beautiful campus." 

Hosted by Radio 3 presenter Fiona Talkington, who lives with chronic neuropathic pain, the discussion features Professor David Bennett, Professor of Neuroscience and Neurobiology at Oxford University and leader of PAINSTORM, Professor Andrew Rice, President of the International Association for the Study of Pain, Professor Annina Schmid from Oxford University, Professor Ed Keogh from the University of Bath, and Dr Wiebke Gandhi from the University of Reading. 

Fiona Talkington said: "The questions from the audience really got to the heart of what people with chronic pain want to know. It was a privilege to facilitate such an honest conversation between researchers and the community they serve." 

Watch and listen: 'The Puzzle of Pain: What is Pain Research? PAINSTORM podcast live from Reading University