Some stories quietly change the way you think about pain, resilience, and what it means to live well.

This is one of those stories.

In a recent episode of The Chronic Pain Experience Podcast, I sat down with my husband, Milt, to share his journey living with CPT2 deficiency—a rare genetic condition that can trigger sudden, severe muscle pain and breakdown if not carefully managed.

Despite this condition, Milt has built a full life. He’s a father of three, a lifelong athlete, and a successful entrepreneur. His story isn’t about “beating” a diagnosis—it’s about learning to live in partnership with his body.

CPT2 (Carnitine Palmitoyltransferase II) deficiency affects how the body uses fat for fuel.

When quick energy sources like carbohydrates are depleted, the muscles struggle to access stored fat. The result can be muscle cramping, weakness, severe pain, and the release of myoglobin—a toxin that places strain on the kidneys.

Milt describes it simply: when his muscles run out of fuel, they begin to shut down.

Episodes can be triggered by intense exercise, illness, cold exposure, lack of food, or stress—especially when several of these factors overlap.

Milt first noticed something was wrong as a child.

Walking home from school, his legs would feel unbearably heavy. Sharp cramps would build, his body would lock up, and he wouldn’t understand why. Like many kids, he pushed through—because that’s what you do when you don’t have answers.

As a teenager, sports made the pattern clearer. He could compete one day, but his body often couldn’t recover for the next. Weekend tournaments became impossible. Still, without a diagnosis, he adapted instinctively—reaching for sugar, rest, and pacing long before he knew the science behind it.

The turning point came during university, after a severe episode left him immobilized. Dark-colored urine and prolonged recovery led him to seek medical help.

When he finally received a diagnosis, there was relief—but also uncertainty. CPT2 is rare, and there was no simple roadmap. What followed was a lifelong process of observation, learning, and self-trust.

Milt doesn’t live with daily pain, but he lives with the possibility of episodes, which he rates on a scale from one to ten.

Milder episodes resolve with rest and fuel. More severe ones—especially those triggered by illness—can escalate quickly and feel frightening. Fever and chills, in particular, have pushed him into severe episodes in recent years, adding a layer of fear and anticipation.

Learning to manage not just the physical symptoms, but the emotional response, has been essential.

Over decades, Milt developed his own toolkit.

Physically:

• Rest

• Rapid refueling (cornstarch, electrolytes, chocolate)

• Heat

• Careful pacing

Psychologically:

• Regulating his breath

• Reminding himself he has recovered before

• Staying calm when symptoms rise

Socially:

• Communicating honestly

• Setting boundaries

• Letting trusted people support him

This balance—body, mind, and environment—is something we talk about often in chronic pain recovery. Milt lives it every day.

One of the hardest lessons has been learning when not to push.

If Milt wants to hike with his kids, he plans for it. He fuels ahead of time. He rests. He brings the snack—even if he doesn’t think he needs it yet.

This isn’t limitation.
It’s intention.

Living with CPT2 taught Milt to listen—to his body, his limits, and his intuition.

A specialist once told him he had “naturally found his way.” After years of not being fully understood, that validation mattered deeply.

If Milt could speak to his younger self, he’d say:

You’ve got this. You’re going to have a good life.

And that’s what he hopes others take from his story.

Believe in yourself.
Listen to your body.
Trust that adaptation is strength—not weakness.

You don’t need a perfect body to live a meaningful life.
You need curiosity, compassion, and the courage to listen.

In this episode of the Chronic Pain Experience Podcast, host and Chronic Pain Recovery Coach, Deana Tsiapalis, delves into the complexities of chronic pain recovery and the systemic barriers faced by patients. Following the tragic death of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Deana explores the frustrations many feel toward the healthcare system, particularly issues like outdated treatment models, high rates of claim denials, and prolonged wait times for coverage approvals. Deana also discusses the importance of patient education and self-advocacy, unveiling the top five challenges chronic pain warriors face in securing insurance coverage and offering resources and strategies for navigating these hurdles.

00:00 Introduction to the Chronic Pain Experience

00:43 The Impact of Insurance on Chronic Pain

02:15 Top Challenges in Securing Coverage

02:40 Outdated Insurance Models and Their Consequences

07:50 High Rates of Claim Denials

12:58 Prolonged Wait Times for Approvals

16:54 Limited Coverage for Non-Pharmacological Treatments

19:46 The Financial Toll on Patients and Families

21:59 Empowering Yourself Through Education

22:56 Conclusion and Call to Action

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In the relentless pursuit of relief from chronic pain, fascia—a vast, connective tissue network—often goes unnoticed. Yet, symptoms like deep aches, stiffness, and tender, sensitive areas may all stem from fascial dysfunction. By understanding how pain works and how our biology responds to it, we can uncover strategies to shift pain patterns and foster healing. In this episode, we explore the profound connection between fascia and chronic pain, while sharing practical techniques to improve fascial health at home. Tune in to learn how understanding your body can be the first step toward reclaiming your life from pain.

As chronic pain recovery coaches and advocates, we are committed to exploring every dimension of healing. Today, we dive deep into the role fascia plays in chronic pain and recovery, drawing on expert insights and practical techniques that empower you to reconnect with your body and reclaim your life.

Fascia is often misunderstood or dismissed as mere “white stuff” found around muscles or discarded when preparing food. However, fascia is much more than a simple sheath. It is a complex, three-dimensional web of connective tissue that envelops every muscle, bone, nerve, blood vessel, organ, and even the brain. This incredible network not only provides structural support but also facilitates communication within the body.

Imagine fascia as a delicate, yet resilient, spiderweb connecting every part of your body. Unlike isolated tissues, fascia integrates everything into one cohesive unit, allowing movement, stability, and coordination. This interconnectedness is why fascial dysfunction can manifest in surprising ways—sometimes as deep aches, stiffness, or symptoms that resemble digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Despite its importance, fascia has only recently gained attention in the medical and therapeutic communities. Up until about a decade ago, fascia was barely mentioned in medical training or research. For example, even physical therapists graduating as recently as 2011 had limited knowledge of fascia beyond basic anatomy. Thankfully, this is changing as new research highlights fascia’s vital role in health and chronic pain.

Many people associate chronic pain with muscle tightness or “knots,” often referred to as trigger points. While trigger points are a common source of discomfort, they are only part of the story. The sensation of a knot or tightness often stems from fascial restrictions—areas where the fascia becomes sticky, thickened, or unable to glide freely.

To understand this, picture fascia living in the interstitial fluid that surrounds every cell in your body. When injury, trauma, or repetitive habits occur, this fluid can become gel-like and sticky, causing the fascia to bind down tissues and restrict movement. This restriction puts pressure on pain-sensitive structures, limiting range of motion and causing persistent discomfort.

One key insight is that muscle tightness alone doesn’t fully explain chronic pain. Even if you stretch or massage muscles, if the fascia remains restricted, the pain often returns. This is why approaches like myofascial release focus on gently loosening the fascia itself, allowing the sticky “ground substance” to return to a more fluid state through low-load, prolonged pressure or stretching.

Often, people with fascial restrictions have already undergone extensive medical testing with no clear diagnosis. This can lead to frustration and a feeling of being a last resort. Recognizing fascia as a potential source of pain opens new doors for healing.

Fascia is not just a passive support structure; it is an active communication network. Fascial tissues contain hollow, water-filled filaments that transmit information throughout the body, potentially faster than the nervous system. This communication helps distribute forces during movement and maintains the body’s biotensegrity—the balance of tension and integrity that keeps us upright and coordinated.

Interestingly, fascia also acts as a storage system for trauma and emotional memories. When we experience trauma—whether physical injury or emotional distress—our bodies may “lock down” certain fascial areas, creating restrictions that reflect both physical and psychological pain. This phenomenon helps explain why chronic pain can sometimes feel disconnected from obvious physical causes and why emotional healing is often a vital part of recovery.

Many people have heard the phrase “trauma is stored in the body,” and fascia plays a key role in this process. When the body experiences emotional trauma, the fascia can hold onto that tension, leading to physical restrictions. This connection between fascia and emotions highlights the importance of addressing both physical and emotional aspects during chronic pain recovery.

During myofascial release therapy, patients often report emotional releases such as crying. This is a natural part of the healing process as the fascia loosens and the body reconnects with stored emotions. Recognizing fascia as an emotional container allows us to approach pain with compassion and a holistic mindset.

Myofascial release (MFR) is a hands-on therapy designed to identify and release fascial restrictions. Unlike aggressive massage or deep tissue work, MFR uses gentle, sustained pressure to coax the fascia back into a more fluid, flexible state. This method respects the body’s natural pace and requires patience and mindfulness.

Here’s how the process typically works:

This slow, deliberate approach is crucial because fascia can generate tremendous force—up to 2,000 pounds per square inch. If pressure is too forceful or rushed, the body braces, and the fascia resists change. The key is to create a safe, comfortable environment where the body can relax and allow healing to unfold naturally.

While professional myofascial release therapy is invaluable, daily self-care plays a crucial role in managing chronic pain and maintaining fascial health. Tools like myofascial balls and foam rollers can help you gently release restrictions at home.

Here are some tips for effective self-care:

These techniques empower you to take an active role in your recovery, complementing professional treatment and fostering a deeper connection with your body.

Chronic pain often involves sensitization of the nervous system, where the body becomes hyper-responsive to stimuli. This sensitization can amplify fascial restrictions and make even light touch or pressure feel overwhelming.

When the nervous system is sensitized, the body’s natural fight-or-flight response may activate during therapy or self-care, leading to tension and resistance. This is why creating a safe environment—both physically and mentally—is essential for effective treatment.

Helping patients manage sensitization involves:

Understanding the interplay between nervous system sensitization and fascia helps us approach chronic pain with empathy and tailored strategies that respect each person’s unique experience.

Chronic pain recovery is not just a physical journey; it is deeply intertwined with emotional and social dimensions. Fascia, as a connective tissue, symbolizes this interconnectedness on a biological level.

Emotional trauma, grief, and stress can manifest as fascial restrictions, while releasing fascia can facilitate emotional healing. This two-way relationship means that addressing emotions is a critical component of physical recovery.

Moreover, social connection plays a vital role. Humans are inherently social beings, and isolation or stigma associated with chronic pain can exacerbate symptoms. Finding supportive communities where you can share your experiences without judgment is crucial for overall well-being.

Engaging with others who understand your journey fosters a sense of belonging and can positively influence your body’s fascia and nervous system. The biopsychosocial model of pain reminds us that healing happens best when we nurture all aspects of ourselves—body, mind, and community.

Our understanding of fascia and its role in chronic pain is still evolving. Much of the research is less than a decade old, and the intricate connections between fascia, the nervous system, emotions, and social factors are only beginning to be fully appreciated.

What is clear is that recovery from chronic pain requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond traditional structural diagnoses. By embracing fascia as a key player in the pain experience, we open new pathways for healing that are gentle, integrative, and respectful of the body’s wisdom.

Whether through professional myofascial release therapy, mindful self-care, emotional support, or social connection, each step toward understanding and nurturing your fascia brings you closer to relief and a life well lived.

Remember, chronic pain is not a life sentence. With knowledge, patience, and compassion, we can shift pain patterns, foster healing, and reclaim our lives.

If you’re ready to explore fascia-focused recovery, consider seeking out myofascial release specialists who use gentle, hands-on techniques designed to release restrictions safely. Many therapists also offer workshops and online courses to teach self-care methods that complement professional treatment.

In addition, supporting your recovery with mindfulness practices, emotional healing, and community connection can amplify your progress. Chronic pain is complex, but with a comprehensive approach, relief is possible.

For those interested, look for resources such as myofascial balls and soft foam rollers to begin gentle self-care at home. Remember to prioritize safety, comfort, and consistency as you explore these techniques.

Above all, be patient with yourself. Healing fascia and the nervous system takes time, but each moment spent caring for your body’s connective tissue is a step toward renewed freedom and vitality

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Living with chronic pain, chronic illness, or a physical disability presents many challenges beyond the symptoms themselves. One of the most persistent obstacles is the limited access to alternative and integrative therapies that can profoundly improve quality of life. Our healthcare system, deeply rooted in the traditional allopathic model, often overlooks the benefits of treatments like acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic care—modalities that can transform the experience of those navigating complex, long-term health conditions.

In this article, we explore the inspiring work of Chanda Hinton, a passionate advocate and leader who, after experiencing life-changing results from integrative therapies herself, co-founded the Chanda Center for Health in Colorado. Chanda’s journey and her foundation’s mission illuminate how integrative care can be a game-changer for people living with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and other physical disabilities. We’ll also delve into the systemic changes needed to make these therapies more widely available and affordable for everyone who can benefit from them.

When a catastrophic injury or chronic illness strikes, the initial response is almost always to rely on the allopathic medical model—emergency care, surgeries, medications, and specialist consultations. This approach is essential and often life-saving. However, as conditions become chronic or lifelong, the limitations of this model become painfully clear.

Chronic pain and disabilities frequently require ongoing management that goes beyond symptom suppression or episodic medical interventions. Unfortunately, many insurance policies and healthcare providers do not prioritize or cover integrative therapies, leaving patients without access to treatments that could reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.

Chanda Hinton’s own story powerfully illustrates this reality. At the age of 9, she was paralyzed below the chest after an accidental shooting severed her spinal cord at the C5-C6 level. This injury rendered her a quadriplegic, dependent on a power wheelchair, adaptive vehicles, caregivers, and a service dog for daily living. While the initial acute care saved her life, the years that followed were marked by over-reliance on medical interventions and medications that often came with side effects and diminishing returns.

"From 9 until I was 21, I was thrown into a medical model that, while critical, was overutilized in ways that ultimately left me bedbound, hospitalized, and dependent on feeding tubes and IV nutrition. I became a product of the healthcare system’s strengths and weaknesses." – Chanda Hinton

This experience underscores a vital truth: the allopathic system can save lives but is not always equipped to sustain long-term health and quality of life for those with complex, chronic conditions. In response, Chanda sought to blend traditional medicine with integrative therapies to create a more holistic, proactive, and preventative approach to care.

Integrative care is a patient-centered approach that combines conventional medical treatments with complementary therapies proven to support symptom management, healing, and wellness. This can include acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, behavioral health, and more—all coordinated to address the whole person rather than isolated symptoms.

For people living with chronic pain and physical disabilities, integrative care offers several key benefits:

Despite these benefits, integrative therapies are often labeled as "alternative," implying they are secondary to mainstream medicine. This classification, along with insurance restrictions and lack of provider education about disability, limits access for many who could benefit the most.

"We need to move beyond the term 'alternative' and embrace integrative healthcare as an inclusive model that incorporates all beneficial therapies under one roof." – Chanda Hinton

In 2005, Chanda and her sister Crystal founded the Chanda Plan Foundation, which later evolved into the Chanda Center for Health. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with physical disabilities through direct access to integrative therapies tailored to their unique needs.

The Chanda Center offers a comprehensive range of services including acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, physical therapy, behavioral health, and care coordination—all provided in a single, disability-competent clinic. This means that every provider is trained not only in their clinical specialty but also in the etiquette, accommodations, and communication skills necessary to serve people with complex disabilities respectfully and effectively.

For many patients, simply accessing a healthcare provider who understands their disability and treats them with dignity can be a transformative experience. The center addresses barriers such as:

By creating a welcoming, knowledgeable environment, the Chanda Center fosters trust and engagement, which are critical to successful long-term care.

Direct service is only one part of the solution. Chanda and her foundation have also focused on systemic change, recognizing that many people with disabilities rely on Medicaid and other government programs that historically have not covered integrative therapies.

In 2009, the foundation played a pivotal role in passing a groundbreaking Medicaid waiver in Colorado that funds acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic services for people with spinal cord injuries. This waiver was the first of its kind, specifically designed to evaluate the efficacy and cost savings of integrative therapies for this population.

Since then, the program has expanded statewide and now includes additional diagnoses such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and brain injuries. The success of this model has demonstrated that integrative care not only improves health outcomes but also reduces healthcare costs by preventing complications and decreasing emergency visits.

"If individuals with long-term disabilities receive proactive, preventative integrative care, Medicaid can save money in the long run while improving quality of life." – Chanda Hinton

Looking ahead, the foundation aims to broaden this model across more Medicaid waivers and other states, advocating for policies that prioritize integrated, holistic care for all complex cases.

Despite growing research supporting integrative care, skepticism remains, especially around therapies like chiropractic care. Some patients and healthcare providers question their legitimacy or effectiveness, often due to a lack of exposure or understanding.

Chanda emphasizes that integrative therapies are not about "fixing" disabilities or curing irreversible conditions. Instead, they focus on maintaining function, reducing secondary complications, and improving overall well-being. The effectiveness of each therapy varies by individual, and a personalized approach involving trial and error is often necessary.

Research and patient testimonials increasingly support the role of acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic care in managing symptoms such as chronic pain, muscle spasticity, and stress. By encouraging individuals to explore these options and advocating for broader insurance coverage, the Chanda Center is helping to shift perceptions and expand access.

For individuals recently diagnosed with a physical disability or experiencing a life-altering injury, the healthcare journey can feel overwhelming. Multiple specialists, conflicting advice, and complex insurance systems add to the emotional and physical burden.

Chanda offers practical guidance for navigating this challenging time:

Importantly, Chanda reminds us that it’s never too late to discover integrative care or to make changes that enhance quality of life, no matter how long you have been living with a disability.

One of the most striking challenges highlighted by Chanda’s work is the pervasive lack of disability competence within the healthcare community. Many providers are not trained in how to accommodate or communicate effectively with patients who have complex physical needs, leading to feelings of alienation and substandard care.

Improving disability competence involves:

When healthcare professionals are better equipped to serve disabled patients, outcomes improve not just for that population but for all patients, as systems become more flexible and responsive.

The impact of integrative care and disability-competent services extends beyond individual patients. The Chanda Center has witnessed profound community benefits including:

These outcomes illustrate that integrative care is not just a personal health choice but a public health imperative.

If you or a loved one are living with chronic pain or a physical disability and want to explore integrative care options, the Chanda Center for Health in Colorado is an invaluable resource. They provide direct services and also support legislative advocacy to expand access to these therapies statewide and beyond.

Visit chandacenter.org to learn about their programs, eligibility criteria, and upcoming initiatives. The center also offers a care team ready to answer questions and help navigate available services.

Follow the Chanda Center on social media platforms for updates, educational content, and community stories. If you’re interested in advocacy, they provide a free playbook for replicating their Medicaid waiver model in other states.

The journey through chronic pain and physical disability is deeply personal and complex. While the traditional allopathic healthcare system remains essential, it often falls short in addressing the holistic needs of those with long-term conditions. Integrative care offers a powerful complement—one that can reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life.

Chanda Hinton’s story and the work of the Chanda Center for Health demonstrate that change is possible when we blend clinical expertise with compassion, education, and policy advocacy. By fostering disability competence, advocating for inclusive Medicaid policies, and providing accessible integrative therapies, they are helping to rewrite the narrative for people living with complex health challenges.

For anyone struggling with chronic pain or disability, know that you are not alone, and that integrative care may open doors to new possibilities for healing and vitality. Awareness is the first step—explore your options, connect with supportive communities, and advocate for the care you deserve.

Remember: Chronic pain and integrative care are not mutually exclusive but are part of a comprehensive approach to living well with complex health conditions.

You can learn more about Chanda and all the amazing work she is doing at chandacenter.org.

“I love Deana’s message inside The Chronic Pain Experience Podcast” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward a life well lived despite the pain. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
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Chronic Headache & Migraine, Alexandria Levin

Living with chronic pain is an isolating and often invisible experience that many struggle to articulate. When the pain you live with isn’t visible to the outside world, it can be challenging for others to understand the depth of your suffering. This disconnect can leave those with chronic pain feeling unheard, misunderstood, and alone. But what if there was a way to bridge that gap? To communicate the complexities of chronic pain beyond words?

Enter The Chronic Pain Project, a unique initiative blending art and storytelling to raise awareness and foster community among people living with chronic pain. Founded by Jana Kimmel, a passionate advocate with a rich background in design, theater, and healthcare research, this project offers a creative and healing outlet for chronic pain warriors to share their stories in a way that words alone often cannot capture.

In this article, we dive deep into The Chronic Pain Project, exploring the importance of community, the invisibility of chronic pain, and how art can serve as a powerful therapeutic tool. We’ll also hear from Jana herself about her personal journey and the transformative impact this project has on participants.

For those living with chronic pain, the experience is often invisible to others. Jana Kimmel shares her own story of living with chronic migraines and musculoskeletal pain for over 30 years. Unlike visible injuries such as a broken leg or arm, chronic pain doesn’t always show outward signs. People may not recognize your suffering because there are no crutches, casts, or obvious physical markers.

This invisibility leads to a profound sense of isolation. Others may question the legitimacy of the pain or fail to offer support because they cannot see it. Jana notes how people often don’t know how to help or even recognize that a conversation about chronic pain needs to happen. This lack of understanding can contribute to feelings of frustration, guilt, shame, and being invalidated—not only by strangers but sometimes by family members and even healthcare providers.

“People don’t look at me and say, ‘Oh, you look like somebody that’s in pain or you might need some help.’”

Living with pain for years or decades alters your daily life in ways many don’t realize. It impacts your ability to work, socialize, care for loved ones, or even engage in hobbies. The chronic nature of the pain means it’s not just a temporary setback; it’s a persistent, life-altering condition.

The Chronic Pain Project was born out of Jana’s personal experience and her professional work as a qualitative researcher in healthcare. While working with companies designing products for musculoskeletal pain, she realized that engineers and designers often lacked a full understanding of the lived experience of chronic pain sufferers. The project aims to fill that empathy gap by bringing real stories to the forefront using art and storytelling.

Jana’s multidisciplinary background—combining industrial design, theater, costume design, and healthcare research—uniquely positions her to create this innovative project. It is a culmination of her passion for health, healing, and creative expression.

Through The Chronic Pain Project, Jana and her team invite people living with chronic pain to share their stories in recorded conversations. Participants then create original pieces of art that visually represent their experiences. This art can range from simple sketches to complex sculptures, reflecting the diversity and individuality of each person’s pain journey.

One of the most powerful aspects of The Chronic Pain Project is its emphasis on community. Chronic pain can be deeply isolating, but through this initiative, people find connection and validation. Social media has played a significant role in normalizing conversations about chronic pain, allowing people to share memes or stories that resonate with others. Still, the project offers a more intimate and creative space to be truly seen and heard.

“When I have a bad day and look online and see all these memes and people saying, ‘Yay, I got out of bed today,’ or ‘I can’t get out of bed today,’ it’s incredibly normalizing.”

Participants often describe the relief of having someone listen without judgment and the freedom to express feelings that are difficult to put into words. The act of creating art becomes a form of emotional release and self-exploration, helping participants process their pain on multiple levels.

Art therapy is widely recognized for its ability to tap into the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of pain. The Chronic Pain Project leverages this by encouraging participants to translate their invisible pain into visible, tangible forms.

Biologically, engaging in creative activities can reduce pain perception. Studies show that making art can lower reported pain levels during the activity, and even viewing art can have soothing effects on the nervous system. Psychologically, art provides a safe space to explore and express complex emotions like grief, frustration, and hope. Socially, sharing art fosters connection and understanding among people who may otherwise feel isolated.

Jana explains how each piece of art is a unique language reflecting the artist’s personal pain story. For example, one participant used layers of color and texture to represent migraines and bruises, while another described the process as a way to “know when the work stops yelling at me,” signaling boundaries with pain.

These stories highlight the project’s commitment to honoring each individual’s experience and the healing potential of self-directed creative expression.

The Chronic Pain Project is not just a one-time initiative but an evolving community effort. The project culminates in an art exhibit showcasing the participants’ work. The launch event is scheduled to take place in Portland, Oregon, with plans to expand to other cities and venues. Workshops and performances are also in the pipeline to further engage the community and expand access to art as therapy for chronic pain.

For those interested in exploring the project or supporting its mission, more information is available on their website, chronicpainproject.org. The site features a gallery of art, participant stories, and resources, as well as event details and opportunities to get involved.

Jana’s dedication to The Chronic Pain Project is deeply personal. She lives with chronic migraines and other pain conditions but continues to work full-time and lead this nonprofit initiative. She describes the project as both energizing and draining—sometimes challenging, but ultimately fulfilling.

Her journey underscores a vital lesson for anyone living with chronic pain: finding purpose and connection can be a powerful way to manage pain, even on difficult days. Jana credits recent pharmaceutical advances for reducing her migraine frequency, which has helped her maintain the energy needed to push the project forward.

She encourages others to remain curious, keep seeking solutions, and allow themselves the grace to rest when needed. The path with chronic pain is rarely linear, but with community, creativity, and persistence, there is hope for better days.

Chronic pain is complex, multifaceted, and deeply personal. It affects every aspect of life—biological, psychological, and social. The Chronic Pain Project embraces this complexity by providing a platform for people to share their stories through art, fostering empathy and understanding among the public and healthcare professionals alike.

By illuminating the invisible, the project helps break down stigma and isolation, offering validation and community to those who often feel unseen. It also highlights the therapeutic power of art, not only as a form of communication but as a means of reducing pain and promoting healing.

Most importantly, The Chronic Pain Project reminds us that behind every chronic pain diagnosis is a unique human story deserving of attention, respect, and care.

If you or a loved one live with chronic pain and are interested in sharing your story through art, The Chronic Pain Project welcomes participants from diverse backgrounds. Whether you are an artist or a beginner, your experience matters.

Visit chronicpainproject.org to learn more about upcoming events, view the art gallery, and find resources to support your journey. You can also subscribe to their newsletter or consider donating to help provide art supplies and expand the project’s reach.

For those simply seeking to understand chronic pain better, exploring the art and stories from this project offers a powerful window into the lived experience of millions worldwide.

Chronic pain can feel overwhelming and unrelenting, but initiatives like The Chronic Pain Project offer hope. By embracing art as therapy, people living with chronic pain can find new ways to express themselves, connect with others, and reclaim some control over their lives.

Jana Kimmel’s vision and dedication demonstrate the profound impact that creativity and community can have on healing. Whether you are a chronic pain warrior, caregiver, healthcare provider, or simply someone seeking to understand, The Chronic Pain Project is a testament to the power of art to illuminate the invisible and transform pain into connection and hope.

Remember, if you live with chronic pain, you are not alone. Your story deserves to be heard and seen—in whatever form that takes.

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Living with chronic pain is hard enough but add insomnia and you have a recipe for sleepless nights, increased pain, anxiety and/or depression and the list goes on. If we’re not sleeping, we’re not healing. Join me in this episode as we explore the deep overlap between chronic pain and insomnia.

The Sleep Rescue Bundle - Create your own sleep strategy at your own pace (without the pricey coaching fees). Click HERE to learn more about my Sleep Rescue Bundle.

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The post Chronic Pain And Insomnia appeared first on Pain 2 Possibilities.

In this episode I discuss how our current model of chronic pain care is struggling to keep up with the new science of pain. Where chronic pain warriors are stuck in a model of care that is outdated and ineffective for chronic pain specifically (but great for acute care). From the lack of mandatory chronic pain curriculum for our physicians to insurance policies locked on the old science of pain, we have some work to do.

Find our free resources:
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The post Chronic Pain Care Is Broken appeared first on Pain 2 Possibilities.

Living with chronic pain can often be an isolating journey, but research consistently highlights the transformative power of community in improving the quality of life for individuals facing this challenge. The latest studies underscore the vital role that a culture of safety and connectedness plays in positively influencing the lived experience of chronic pain.

By fostering a supportive community, we not only share the weight of our individual struggles but also amplify our collective strength. The sense of belonging and understanding within a community can significantly reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression associated with chronic pain.

Creating a culture of safety within this community is paramount. It provides a space where individuals can openly express their challenges, triumphs, and vulnerabilities without judgment. This culture of safety becomes a foundation for trust, empathy, and collaboration, essential elements in navigating the complexities of chronic pain.

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If you'd like to join us inside our Free Cwtch community, simply click HERE to be taken to the 'Heartbeat Chat' App.

“I love Deana's message inside The Chronic Pain Experience Podcast” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward a life well lived despite the pain. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

If you’d like a copy of our FREE Chronic pain warrior’s guide to better doctor appointments click HERE.

Have your say! Complete our brief (3 min) survey to help me improve our growing podcast! You can do so HERE.

Opioid induced constipation coupled with chronic pain can make life both unbearable and unpredictable. Join me as I sit down with Nicole Hemmenway from the Us Pain Foundation and Megan Filloramo to talk about opioid induced constipation, the stigma and the solutions as a part of the International Opioid Constipation Awareness Day.

Join Our Free Community

Looking for a unique community to create meaningful connections with others who are experiencing much the same as you are inside a safe space away from the confines of Facebook? Click HERE to join our Free Cwtch Community.

“I love Deana’s message inside The Chronic Pain Experience Podcast” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward a life well lived despite the pain. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

If you’d like a copy of our FREE Chronic pain warrior’s guide to better doctor appointments click HERE.

Have your say! Complete our brief (3 min) survey to help me improve our growing podcast! You can do so HERE.

In this episode I sit down with the esteemed Dr. Harvey Chochinov to discuss dignity and person centered care for both end of life and for the lived experience with pain. Join us as we explore the human experience, the importance of perception, purpose, meaning, and hope in maintaining dignity in care.

If you would like to learn more about what we do at The Change Pain Academy you can do so HERE.

If you would like to access the Chronic Pain Warrior’s Guide To Better Doctors Appointments’ Click HERE for your FREE copy.

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