Episode 3: The Live Well with Arthritis Podcast

#3 Understanding Modern Pain Science: From Nociception to Self-Management

In this insightful episode, host Emily Johnson sits down with NHS chronic pain consultant and lifestyle medicine practitioner Dr Deepak Ravindran to explore the evolving science of chronic pain, and what it means for people living with arthritis today.

Drawing from the latest pain research and real-life case studies, Deepak explains how our understanding of pain has evolved — it’s not just a physical signal, but a complex, brain-generated protective experience that can be influenced through a whole-person, lifestyle-integrated approach combining medical care with nutrition, sleep, movement, stress management, and more.

Topics covered:

• The modern distinction between nociception and pain, and why this matters in arthritis
• How immune and nervous system interactions can amplify pain sensitivity
• The “wear and repair” mindset: why joints can still heal and adapt at any age
• A five-pillar framework for calming inflammation and improving function
• Rethinking medications: their benefits, limits, and role within integrative care
• The importance of self-management, realistic timelines (12 weeks–6 months), and sustained behaviour change
• Case study: a woman with rheumatoid and osteoarthritis who regained control through small, structured changes in lifestyle

About the podcast:

With a focus on reducing inflammation and improving daily life, the podcast will feature expert interviews, science-backed strategies, and real stories from people living with all types of arthritis.

Emily combines her 12+ years of lived experience and insights from healthcare professionals to offer practical, encouraging steps that help you feel healthier, happier, and less alone when living with arthritis.

Emily is a bestselling author, founder of Live Well with Arthritis, and creator of Arthritis Foodie.

Episode Links:

Live Well with Arthritis Waitlist: https://www.livewellwitharthritis.com/waitlist

Dr Deepak Ravindran @DrDeepakRavindran:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdeepakravindran/?hl=en
• Website: https://deepakravindran.co.uk/
• Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pain-Free-Mindset-Control-Overcoming-Chronic/dp/1785043390/

Emily Johnson @ArthritisFoodie:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arthritisfoodie/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@arthritisfoodie
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arthritisfoodie/

Further Resources: https://linktr.ee/arthritisfoodie