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The Missing Link in Rehab You’re Probably Ignoring

Pain isn’t always just about tissues, load, or biomechanics.

In this episode, Brodie explores one of the most overlooked contributors to prolonged running injuries: the psychosocial side of pain. Drawing from both research and years of working with chronic injury cases, he introduces a 20-question “Pain & Wellness Score” designed to uncover the emotional, cognitive, and social factors that may be quietly influencing your recovery. 

You’ll learn why some runners continue to struggle despite doing all the “right” rehab exercises, how hypervigilance and fear can amplify symptoms, and why recovery should be approached through a biopsychosocial lens rather than purely mechanical thinking. Brodie also breaks down the science behind chronic pain, nervous system hypersensitivity, catastrophisation, fear of movement, and the powerful role attention plays in symptom intensity. 

Throughout the episode, Brodie walks listeners through the full questionnaire so they can assess themselves in real time. He explains how low scores may reveal missing pieces in recovery and shares practical interventions that can help calm the nervous system, reduce fear, and improve recovery outcomes. 

Topics include:

•  Hypervigilance and constantly monitoring symptoms 
•  Fear of movement (kinesiophobia) 
•  Catastrophisation and emotional amplification of pain 
•  The role of social support in recovery 
•  How stress, trauma, anxiety, and perfectionist tendencies influence chronic pain 
•  Why distraction, enjoyable movement, and positive coping strategies can help 
•  The importance of resilience, optimism, and confidence in movement 
•  Why scans and conflicting diagnoses can sometimes worsen recovery outcomes 

Brodie also discusses research on chronic pain neuroplasticity and highlights therapies shown to help regulate the nervous system, including:

•  Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) 
•  Mindfulness practices 
•  Guided meditations and breathing exercises 
•  Gradual exposure to feared movements 
•  Active coping strategies versus passive coping behaviours 

If you’ve been stuck in an injury cycle, feel emotionally exhausted by pain, or feel like your rehab is missing something despite doing the exercises correctly, this episode may provide an entirely new perspective on recovery.

Resources & Links:
Click here to learn about Brodie's Chronic Pain Reset Course