In this episode of the Pain Science Podcast, Joe Tatta, PT, DPT, interviews Sharna Prasad, PT, DPT, about her work in community pain care. Her journey includes a move from India to the U.S. and her personal experience with chronic pain management. They discuss the cultural influences on pain perception, the importance of understanding social determinants of health, and the need for a shift in physical therapy education. Dr. Prasad shares her insights on community empowerment, the development of pain education curricula, and the challenges faced in implementing new pain care models.

To learn more about Dr. Prasad’s work, visit her at https://sol4ce.com/

Visit  integrativepainscienceinstitute.com for more information and CEU courses on pain care and mental health for physical therapists.

Thank you for listening,

Joe Tatta, PT, DPT
CEO, Integrative Pain Science Institute

Watch the Episode: Community Pain Care

Listen to the Episode: Community Pain Care

Community Pain Care with Sharna Prasad, PT, DPT

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pain Science Podcast
01:54 Sharna’s Journey: From India to Pain Science
06:07 Cultural Influences on Pain Perception
10:04 Understanding Pain: Beyond Protection
13:54 The Role of Social Determinants in Pain Care
18:04 Facilitating Learning in Pain Management
19:54 Community Engagement in Pain Care
22:19 Community-Driven Pain Management Initiatives
23:48 Engaging Youth in Pain Education
25:15 Developing Online Pain Management Curriculum
27:10 Transformational Community Events
29:02 Shared Medical Appointments: A New Approach
30:57 Challenges in Systemic Change
32:17 The Financial Implications of Pain Management
33:42 The Role of Physical Therapy in Community Care
34:41 Education Gaps in Physical Therapy Training
37:49 The Responsibility of Healthcare Providers
42:39 Self-Care for Healthcare Professionals
45:15 Connecting with the Community

Resources Mention During the Episode

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Chronic Pain

Dr. Sharna Prasad is a licensed physical therapist, educator, public health professional and a professional public speaker. Her interests span across the borders of healthcare, systems- thinking and population health.  She is a Therapeutic Pain Specialist and trained in ACT -Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She is a diplomate in Lifestyle medicine. She is the founder and owner of Sol4ce, LLC a company that is committed to bringing Solace and transformation to her community in pain and lifestyle. She sees clients for pain and lifestyle coaching online. Sharna is a gardener, a mosaic artist and calls herself a Painiac.