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).
  • 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: Andy Roof, Physical Therapist

“My focus is on educating patients in their own innate abilities to create healthy habits and incorporate regular exercise into their lifestyles so that they can live vital, meaningful lives without physical limitations.” Andy’s enjoys the management of any orthopedic dysfunction, especially low back and neck. He enjoys treating student athletes, weekend warriors and accomplished, high level athletes, especially skiers and cyclists. Over his many years of experience he has broadened his expertise into the treatment of chronic pain conditions and vestibular/balance problems. In his spare time, Andy is an avid backcountry skier and mountain biker. He enjoys traveling throughout the Western states with his family pursuing backpacking and camping experiences in the mountains and along the coast. He is passionate about all forms of music, both as a listener as well as a bass player in a local band.

Credentials

  • Masters Degree in Physical Therapy (MPT): Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
  • University of Virginia: Bachelor’s Degree in Biology
  • APTA Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist (OCS)
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