Class Description
Taught by a physical therapist, this class covers the basic physiology
of pain, what is happening in our brains and nerves when we feel pain
and how a “chronic” pain state develops in our nervous system.
Research shows that people with persistent pain who learn about the science
behind the changes in their nervous system are able to decrease their
perceived pain level.
Recommended Websites and Reading
-
http://www.neuroplastix.com/
An informative website with free on-line lessons about re-training the
brain. Scroll down to “Education” and then “Patients.”
They also sell an excellent book called “Your Brain on Pain”
that we highly recommend for further work.
-
http://www.noigroup.com/en/Home
Excellent books and blogs about the biology of pain and re-training the
brain. This group wrote the ground-shaking book “Explain Pain”
(Butler, D., Moseley, L. Explain Pain. Noigroup Publications, Adelaide,
Australia, 2003.) that we used as our reference in the creation of this
program. We recommend this book for further reading and it is available
at the Planetree Library in The Dalles (http://www.mcmc.net/library).
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http://www.bodyinmind.org/
This is a scientific, research-oriented website that some folks will find
valuable. Not for anyone looking for a “light read!” However,
they are the most significant presence in the clinical pain sciences in
the web/social media space. There are many good links to other sources
for those keen on deepening their understanding of pain science.
-
Painful Yarns: Metaphors and Stories to Help Understand the Biology of
Pain by Lorimer Moseley
This is a very approachable book for anyone looking to deepen their understanding
of pain. Check amazon.com for used copies.
- www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/11-tips-for-living-with-chronic-pain
Download Class Materials
About the Instructor: Kevin Hanson, PT, DPT, OCS

Physical therapy for Kevin is about teaching people how their body is functioning
and responding to their daily activity. He enjoys developing a collaborative
plan to give people the best chance possible for reaching their goals.
Kevin grew up in Helena, Montana and moved to Oregon for college in 2002,
living in and around Portland. He relocated to the Columbia River Gorge
in 2013. Kevin enjoys treating all body parts in patients young to old.
He specializes in treating spinal dysfunction from neck to low back. He
has additional specialty in treating people with jaw pain. He also enjoys
treating people with vestibular dysfunction, dizziness, and balance issues.
In his spare time, Kevin enjoys the array of outdoor activities available
in the Gorge, including Nordic skiing, mountain biking, running, and hiking.
Credentials
- Doctor of Physical Therapy: Pacific University
- Linfield College - Bachelor of Science in Biology
- Affiliations/Specialties: Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
Back to Persistent Pain Education Program