Pain Free Living

Bob Allen
  • 5.0 (9)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Pain Free Living

I'm Bob Allen and I have been helping people manage their pain since 2008. I am an osteopath and physical therapist and the Pain Free Living channel is here to provide you with jargon-free, simple explanations for common pain problems like headaches, back, neck, and shoulder pain, and arthritis and explain why stress can make things worse I will also be covering important topics like the way your nervous system works, ways to reduce Fibromyalgia symptoms, Kinesiophobia (fear of pain through movement), why NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis) is a good thing and other things you need to know about to help you enjoy a pain-free life. I always say "Movement is medicine" as exercise is a great way to prevent pain. We will look at the practical type that gets your muscles and joints moving better rather than the kind that leaves you in a pool of sweat in the corner of the gym (but we can cover that if you really want me to!). If you like understanding how your body works, why you might be in pain, and want practical advice on managing that pain this is the channel for you.

Episodes

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Ep 12 - Is your knee pain the problem or just a symptom?

    Did you know that unless you have had a trip, fall, or some other trauma, there is a good chance that your knee pain is not due to a problem with your knee. Welcome to the Pain Free Living Podcast with me, your host Bob Allen. I am an osteopath who has been successfully treating people's pain problems since 2008. In this episode, I cover the topic of knee pain, which is a problem that I treat almost as frequently as low back pain, especially with older clients. While I will always be a huge fan of the NHS, the management of knee pain is generally not great. The options offered are generally anti-inflammatories, physiotherapy, steroid injections, an operation, or being told there is nothing that can be done, so live with the pain. Typically, people come to see me as a last resort, but I have successfully helped the majority of them avoid injections or an operation with some hands-on treatment and targeted exercises.  I will discuss how ankle health is very closely linked to your knee function and how an ankle issue can often be the cause of a knee problem, especially where there has never been a direct knee injury. Real-life cases of non-traumatic knee pain that I have treated include one caused by the poor rehab of an ankle sprain and a case caused by a fibula (outside of your shin bone) problem. I discuss these cases in more detail, covering how they were identified and resolved. These examples highlight the importance of a holistic approach to treatment with a detailed diagnosis and effective rehab rather than just treating symptoms. Takeaways: Knee pain can often happen without a previous injury, gradually developing with no apparent cause.Compensatory movements from an old ankle injury can lead to knee and/ or hip pain over time. Correct diagnosis is crucial; often, knee pain is a symptom of another issue.Rehabilitating ankle injuries properly is essential to prevent knee pain and other complications.Depending on the cause, balance and strength exercises targeting the ankle can effectively resolve knee pain More about Bob You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here https://bit.ly/BobsOsteoStory     Sign up for his very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here https://bit.ly/PFL_newsletter_signup   If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you https://linktr.ee/Painfreeliving

    5 min

  2. 8 APR

    Ep 11 - Is Your hip/ groin pain due to your dodgy Hip Flexors?

    Did you know that your psoas hip flexor could be a source of your hip and groin pain? Welcome to the Pain Free Living Podcast with me, your host Bob Allen. I'm an osteopath who has been successfully treating people's pain problems since 2008. During that time, I have treated a few clients who came to me with hip and groin pain with no clue why, after many examinations, including MRI scans. The results of all the testing came back negative, so they generally came to me while still in pain with no idea of what to try next. Most of their issues were a result of an undiagnosed psoas hip flexor problem, which resolved after a few treatments together with some specific exercises. The primary focus of today's podcast is the psoas, looking at the anatomy and functionality and what can happen if things go wrong. Your psoas muscle is a long, ribbon-shaped muscle that starts either side of your spine and runs through your pelvis to the top of your thigh bone. Its key role is hip flexion, i.e. helping bring your upper leg towards your body or helping you bend forward when you are standing. It can also help with side bending your upper body when the muscle on one side contracts  Due to the complex attachments of the psoas muscles to your spine and thigh bone, the symptoms of any problems can vary significantly ranging from low back pain when you go from sitting to standing or lying down to sitting up, pain in your pelvis and hip or pain and numbness radiating down your upper thigh.  The good news is that once a psoas problem has been identified it can be a relatively easy fix with the right treatment and exercises. Takeaways: The psoas muscle is crucial for connecting the upper body to the lower body, facilitating various movements. Problems with the psoas can lead to low back, hip and groin pain, particularly for runners or those who sit for long periods of time Identifying psoas-related issues can be done through simple tests that guide effective treatment. More about Bob You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here https://bit.ly/BobsOsteoStory     Sign up for his very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here https://bit.ly/PFL_newsletter_signup If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you https://linktr.ee/Painfreeliving

    5 min

  3. 1 APR

    Ep 10 - What is the Region Beta Paradox and why should you care?

    You may be wondering what the Region Beta Paradox is, and think it might not be relevant to you, but it is. It sounds complicated, but it isn’t, and although you might have never heard of it, I can guarantee that you will be able to relate to it, so give this episode a listen and you will see what I mean. Introduction Welcome to the Pain Free Living Podcast, hosted by Bob Allen, an osteopath who has been treating people's pain problems since 2008. In this episode Bob will be talking about the Region Beta Paradox, and explain why we put up with small, niggly problems rather than getting them sorted out as soon as they happen. When you experience low-level pain, like a mild ankle sprain or knee pain, typically you would change your behaviour by shifting your weight to the uninjured side and live with the problem as it’s annoying but not that annoying. If it was a severe ankle sprain or an inflamed, swollen knee that meant you struggled to walk you would do something about it pretty quickly, wouldn’t you? Bob relates the Region Beta Paradox to pain, as this is the Pain Free Living podcast, but it is equally applicable to a job that you don’t like but can live with or the partner you are bored with but can’t live without. By the end of the podcast you will know what the Region Beta Paradox is, and how it can influence your choice between an OK life and a great one whether that relates to your health, wealth, or relationships. Takeaways: • The Region Beta Paradox covers why we often ignore low-level pain until it starts to affect our usual day-to-day activities. • Understanding the Region Beta Paradox can empower you to take notice and manage your well-being. • Why you tend to ‘live with’ minor pain problems that are annoying even though they can affect your overall quality of life. • The bigger the impact a problem has on your life, the more likely you are to do something about it. More about Bob You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here https://bit.ly/BobsOsteoStory Sign up for his very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here https://bit.ly/PFL_newsletter_signup If you want to follow Bob on social media, this is the place for you https://linktr.ee/Painfreeliving

    5 min

  4. 25 MAR

    Ep 9 - Kinesio Tape 101: What is it and does it work?

    If you have seen the brightly coloured tape that is worn by lots of athletes and sporting superstars and wondered what it is and how it works this is the podcast for you. We take a close look at kinesio tape and have done the research into how effective it is so you don't have to. Introduction Welcome to the Pain Free Living Podcast with your hosts Bob Allen and Louise Gordon. Bob is an osteopath who has been treating people's pain problems since 2008. while Louise, is a change coach and business consultant.  Although she has no clinical experience she has been in pain and is qualified to ask the questions that you would if you had access to a friendly and knowledgeable medical expert. We talk about the history of kinesio tape, and why Dr. Kenzo Kase’s developed it as a significant departure from the traditional use of tape for injury management. While conventional tape is used for bracing and supporting an injured joint kinesio tape provides a balance between support and mobility. In addition to support and mobility kinesio tape is thought to have other actions that make it more effective than simply bracing a joint. These actions include enhancing blood flow and lymphatic drainage. The evidence for these additional actions is contentious Bob states how he has used it effectively in many situations and it is the only effective treatment he has found for rib injuries. While the potential for adverse reactions, such as skin irritation or allergic responses, is acknowledged, the hosts assert that the minimal side effects and adaptability for a wide range of muscle and joint problems make it a valuable tool in pain management and rehabilitation. The conclusion is that, despite the contentious nature of the research surrounding kinesio tape, it should not be dismissed, as it provides a non-invasive option that may significantly enhance quality of life. Takeaways: Kinesio tape, developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase in the 1970s, revolutionized traditional athletic taping methods. Unlike rigid athletic tape, K tape is flexible and aims to enhance movement while alleviating pain. The efficacy of kinesiology tape remains debated, with varying research outcomes on its effectiveness. K tape offers minimal side-effects and can be a valuable tool during rehabilitation processes. More info on Bob and Louise You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here https://bit.ly/BobsOsteoStory Here is something more on Louise and how She makes the complex simple https://bit.ly/LouiseGordon Sign up for the very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here https://bit.ly/PFL_newsletter_signup If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you linktr.ee/Painfreeliving

    15 min

  5. 25 MAR

    Ep 8 - A NEAT way to exercise less and still burn calories and get healthier

    If you hate exercise but still want to burn calories and improve your health this podcast is for you. The solution you have been looking for is non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) and if you don't know what that is or how it works your hosts Bob Allen and Louise Gordon will tell you all you need to know. Bob is an osteopath who has been treating people's pain problems since 2008. while Louise is a change coach who helps individuals and businesses to navigate change. Although she has no clinical experience she has been in pain and is qualified to ask the questions you would if you had access to a friendly and knowledgeable medical expert. Bob and Louise explain how everyday activities that do not qualify as 'exercise' can help you burn more calories. Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) encourages you to look at the value of your daily movements, from standing to walking to performing routine tasks like cleaning the house, ironing, gardening, etc. If you are one of the many people who feel intimidated by the thought of going to the gym or playing a sport you can achieve similar health benefits by increasing your normal daily activities. We also look at how different age groups can be NEATer, including older adults and individuals with limited mobility. We share insights on how small changes in your lifestyle can lead to significant health improvements over time including research that highlights how a more active lifestyle—such as standing desks or including short walking breaks—can give you similar benefits to more traditional exercises. As always with the Pain Free Living podcast we aim to demystify the link between fitness and daily activity, to ensure the maximum number of people get involved because 'movement is medicine'. Takeaways: Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) refers to the calories burned through daily activities that do not include deliberate exercise. Increasing non-exercise activities, such as standing instead of sitting, can lead to substantial calorie expenditure over time. Movement is essential for health, and even small increases in daily activity can significantly benefit overall well-being. The fitness industry's focus on intense exercise can put people off simpler, beneficial activities around the home. More info on Bob and Louise You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here Here is something more on Louise and how She makes the complex simple Sign up for the very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you linktr.ee/Painfreeliving

    10 min

  6. 11 MAR

    Ep 7 - FAQ: Osteopathy, what do you want to know?

    If you think Osteopathy is all about cracking joints and can only be used to treat low back pain you need to listen to this episode of the Pain Free Living podcast. It is a treatment approach that has been around since 1857 and can be used to treat much more than muscle and joint problems so tune in to find out more. Introduction Welcome to the Pain Free Living Podcast with your hosts Bob Allen and Louise Gordon. Bob is an osteopath who has been treating people's pain problems since 2008. while Louise, is a change coach and business consultant. Although she has no clinical experience she has been in pain and is qualified to ask the questions that you would if you had access to a friendly and knowledgeable medical expert. In this episode, Bob and Louise discuss why you might want to see an osteopath and the differences between an osteopath, physiotherapist, and chiropractor. They clarify common misconceptions and look at whether it makes a difference which type of practitioner you see. The episode delves into the nuances of osteopathic treatment, with Bob Allen outlining his approach to patient care. He emphasises the necessity of a thorough case history, taking into account the patient's comprehensive medical history and current pain issues. This holistic approach enables Bob to identify complex medical issues that might have been missed by other healthcare professionals. Bob elaborates on the different treatment approaches including massage, joint manipulation, dry needling, and targeted exercises, highlighting how this can reduce pain and improve movement. We also discuss common misconceptions about the potential side effects of osteopathic treatment, and what happens during a typical osteopathic appointment. Takeaways: - The primary focus of osteopathy is on addressing muscle and joint problems, including low back neck, hips, knee and shoulder pain, headaches, sports injuries etc. - Osteopathy differs from chiropractic and physiotherapy in its holistic approach, beyond just muscular and joint problems. - Evidence supporting osteopathy exists, particularly in its effectiveness for short-term treatment of low back pain. - Osteopathic treatment for most patients typically consists of three to five sessions. - Incorporating exercises into the rehabilitation process is essential, as it empowers patients to take control of their health and significantly improves treatment outcomes. More info on Bob and Louise You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here https://bit.ly/BobsOsteoStory Here is something more on Louise and how She makes the complex simple https://bit.ly/LouiseGordon Sign up for the very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here https://bit.ly/PFL_newsletter_signup If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you linktr.ee/Painfreeliving

    25 min

  7. 4 MAR

    Ep 6 - Why you need to know the difference between acute pain and chronic pain?

    Pain is one of the most misunderstood responses that the body has and if you are in pain you need to understand why and what your options are for getting rid of it! If you want a better idea of how to manage your acute and chronic pain problems this is the podcast for you. Bob is an osteopath who has been treating people's pain problems since 2008. while Louise, is a change coach who helps individuals and businesses navigate change. Although she has no clinical experience she has been in pain and is qualified to ask the questions you would if you had access to a friendly and knowledgeable medical expert. Chronic pain is 'pain lasting more than 12 weeks', while anything less than that is classed as acute pain. We look at the importance of your healthcare professional understanding the relationship between how much pain you feel, and how they manage that pain. What happens if you have been referred for an MRI or CT scan but the results are inconclusive with no sign of any problems? Your healthcare practitioner should review their approach and consider other potential causes of your pain but in my experience, they carry on with more of the same hoping it will work eventually. The role of medication for chronic pain management is covered with Bob taking a pragmatic view of pain relief strategies, which can be beneficial for short-term relief, but won't address the issues contributing to chronic pain. This podcast episode is an essential resource if you are navigating your way through chronic pain, offering practical guidance in a jargon-free way. Takeaways: Pain serves as a protective mechanism, alerting the brain to potential injury. Diagnostic imaging such as MRI scans may not reveal the underlying causes of your pain. The experience of pain involves both physical and emotional dimensions, meaning that your treatment should also address both. Don't be afraid to question your healthcare provider if your treatment doesn't appear to be working. More info on Bob and Louise You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here Here is something more on Louise and how She makes the complex simple Sign up for the very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you linktr.ee/Painfreeliving

    14 min

  8. 25 FEB

    Ep 5 - Are you "Double jointed" with lots of aches and pains?

    If you are double-jointed and have a favorite party trick my osteopathy tutor used to say "one person's party trick is another person's trip to A & E!" While the relaxed ligaments in your jaw let you fit your fist in your mouth and make your friends laugh if your muscles go into spasm or your jaw dislocates it will be less funny waiting for the ambulance. The medical term for being double-jointed is hypermobility and that is what we cover in this episode. Bob is an osteopath who has been treating people's pain problems since 2008. while Louise, is a change coach who helps individuals and businesses navigate change. Although she has no clinical experience she has been in pain and is qualified to ask the questions you would if you had access to a friendly and knowledgeable medical expert. Bob and Louise provide you with a detailed exploration of hypermobility, otherwise known as being 'double-jointed'. covering why it allows you an increased range of motion in your joints. While it's not generally a problem it can have a profound effect on your physical health if your ligaments, tendons, and general connective tissue are too stretchy leading to joint instability and a range of other problems. We discuss why hypermobility is often undiagnosed and introduce the Beighton scale, which is a pivotal tool for assessing joint flexibility. The importance of early diagnosis is also covered and the fact that many individuals are unaware of their hypermobility and don't seek treatment for any related symptoms. Here is a link that explains the Beighton scale and how you can do the test yourself https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwWts_P-Xws The episode also highlights the connection between hypermobility and various genetic conditions, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome, which can further complicate the clinical picture. Bob advocates for a comprehensive approach to healthcare, where practitioners from different medical disciplines, recognise symptoms that may be connected and propose a treatment plan that covers all of those symptoms. This episode aims to raise awareness of hypermobility and all the implications of being very flexible so that you can recognise the signs and symptoms and find someone that can help you manage the condition if needed. The good news is that the majority of cases of hypermobility do not cause any problems and most people are unaware that they have it. Having said that, if your joints are very flexible and you have a history of muscle & joint pain, stomach issues, heart problems, and other seemingly unrelated issues you need to see your healthcare provider for further investigation. Takeaways: Hypermobility affects approximately 30% of the global population, leading to various symptoms. The condition is characterized by an increased range of motion in joints due to lax ligaments. Hypermobility can have genetic links, with certain ethnic groups exhibiting higher prevalence rates. Many individuals with hypermobility remain asymptomatic and are unaware of their condition. Effective management of hypermobility includes targeted exercises that enhance muscle strength and joint stability. Diagnosis often utilizes the Beighton score, which assesses flexibility in various joints. More info on Bob and Louise You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here Here is something more on Louise and how She makes the complex simple Sign up for the very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the

    19 min

  9. 28 JAN

    Ep 4 - Strength and Balance: the benefits of moving more as we get older

    If you think that getting older means more muscle and joint pain you are doing it wrong! You need to listen to this podcast as it might just change your mind... Welcome to the Pain Free Living Podcast with your hosts Bob Allen and Louise Gordon. Bob is an osteopath who has been treating people's pain problems since 2008. while Louise, is a change coach who helps individuals and businesses to navigate change. Although she has no clinical experience she has been in pain and is qualified to ask the questions you would if you had access to a friendly and knowledgeable medical expert. Movement is Medicine This episode is all about the benefits of exercise and why movement becomes more important as we get older. Bob is a big fan of exercise because it has so many benefits regardless of age. Unfortunately, the fitness industry and social media portray exercise as the privilege of the young and healthy which can put off those of us who are not so fit. There is also a generally held view that unless you are reduced to a sweaty heap with every muscle aching at the end of an exercise session you won't get any benefit from doing it. With his experience of working with people in pain Bob knows how beneficial moving more can be and how it is applicable at any age. This show is all about combating the myth that aging means unavoidable decline and highlights the fact that the more you exercise the greater the benefits. What is the best exercise? Bob highlights the fact that the best exercise is the one that people will do! He is a qualified Otago instructor which is a mixture of strength and balance exercises originally designed for older adults but can be tailored for most people regardless of age or fitness levels. All good exercise approaches need to be progressive, simple, and effective and Otago is all of those things. It can have a life-changing impact for people of any age improving their confidence, reducing injuries, and promoting social connection. Practical & Accessible Workouts Although Bob is an advocate for the Otago program the point is that any exercise program you do should fit into your lifestyle.  For someone who hasn't exercised for a while practical, simple exercises can make a difference when done consistently.   The key takeaway is that you are never too old to exercise you just need to find the right exercises that match your level of fitness. More info on Bob and Louise You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here Here is something more on Louise and how She makes the complex simple Sign up for the very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you linktr.ee/Painfreeliving

    12 min

  10. 28 JAN

    Ep 3 - Why moving more when you are in pain can be a good thing

    We have all experienced pain, but did you know it can cause issues after the original problems have gone away? If you didn't know, you need to listen to this podcast as it's all about Kinesiophobia which is the fear of movement causing pain. Welcome to the Pain Free Living Podcast with your hosts Bob Allen and Louise Gordon. Bob is an osteopath who has been treating people's pain problems since 2008. while Louise, is a change coach who helps individuals and businesses to navigate change. Although she has no clinical experience she has been in pain and is qualified to ask the questions that you would if you had access to a friendly and knowledgeable medical expert. This episode, is all about kinesiophobia which we guarantee you will have experienced even if you have never heard of it before today. What is Kinesiophobia? Kinesiophobia, or fear of movement, usually happens after an episode of chronic pain, typically affecting your low back but could just as easily be your neck or a shoulder. Bob explains how the body, in an attempt to protect itself, may avoid certain movements, leading to compensatory habits. These altered movements can continue long after the problem, has healed as the brain has learned to fear the pain originally caused by those movements. Neuroplasticity is the solution to your kinesiophobia problem Bob explains what neuroplasticity is and how you can use it to override your brain's kinesiophobia problem. Your brain likes forming habits similar to learning how to drive which initially feels very complicated but becomes easier with proactive and experience. The good news is that the pain-avoiding movements and kinesiophobia you developed when you were in pain can be 'unlearned'. Goodbye Kinesiophobia... The way to address pain-avoiding movements is to teach your brain that the movements are safe. This is achieved through a combination of education, conversation, and rehabilitation exercises to gradually expand conscious and unconscious confidence that particular movements are safe. Kinesiophobia is a complex problem to identify and can be difficult to treat unless you find a therapist who has an understanding of how the body works. If you suspect you have a problem related to kinesiophobia contact Bob to find out more. More info on Bob and Louise You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here Here is something more on Louise and how She makes the complex simple Sign up for the very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you linktr.ee/Painfreeliving Takeaways: Kinesiophobia, or fear of movement, is a psychological response often stemming from chronic pain experiences. The brain learns to avoid movements that previously caused pain, leading to compensatory habits and potential long-term issues. Neuroplasticity allows individuals to unlearn pain-avoidant behaviors and re-establish normal movement patterns. Effective rehabilitation requires education on movement safety and gradually increasing activity levels. Support from knowledgeable practitioners is crucial for overcoming kinesiophobia...

    11 min

  11. 28 JAN

    Ep 2 - If you are in pain do you see an Osteopath, chiropractor or physiotherapist?

    You have low back pain, a headache, shoulder pain, or some other muscle or joint problem and need to see a physical therapist how do you decide whether you need an osteopath, chiropractor, or physiotherapist? If you have ever wondered which one would be the best for you listen to this podcast and all will be revealed. Introduction Welcome to the Pain Free Living Podcast with your hosts Bob Allen and Louise Gordon. Bob is an osteopath who has been treating people's pain problems since 2008. while Louise, is a change coach and business consultant. Although she has no clinical experience she has been in pain and is qualified to ask the questions that you would if you had access to a friendly and knowledgeable medical expert. In this episode, Bob and Louise discuss the differences between chiropractors, osteopaths, and physiotherapists to clarify common misconceptions and look at whether it makes a difference which type of practitioner you see. Educational Pathways & Professional Bodies They discuss the educational and regulatory frameworks and the extensive training required for each clinical discipline. Bob highlights osteopathy’s holistic approach contrasting it with chiropractic's focus on spinal health, and physiotherapy's roots in exercise rehabilitation. We also highlight the fact that regardless of the therapeutic approach all practitioners practice under a regulatory body that ensures they adhere to strict standards. Choosing the Right Practitioner Louise asks the common question regarding the best way to find a therapist and the potentially controversial answer is that it's all about the skills and experience of the therapist rather than their professional label. The other key point is to do your own research asking friends and family for recommendations rather than relying on a Google search. Alternatively use the internet, find the practitioners that get good reviews, and talk to them if you can then decide who you like the sound of and visit them. Not very scientific but a good way to find a therapist that you can trust which is the most important thing. More info on Bob and Louise You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here Here is something more on Louise and how She makes the complex simple Sign up for the very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you linktr.ee/Painfreeliving Takeaways: When looking for a therapist, always check the practitioner's skills and experience over their title. Osteopaths, chiropractors, and physiotherapists all undergo rigorous training and are regulated by distinct professional bodies. A holistic approach characterises osteopathy, while chiropractic care primarily focuses on spinal health and nervous system function. Physiotherapy emphasises exercise-based rehabilitation techniques to facilitate recovery from injuries and pain. Researching potential therapists through recommendations from friends and family can yield more trustworthy results than online searches. Effective communication with your therapist about your condition is critical to developing

    10 min

  12. 28 JAN

    1st Episode for The art of living Pain Free

    Introduction to the podcast and host Welcome to the first episode of the Pain Free Living podcast, where host Bob Allen offers a sneak peek into some of the topics designed to help you manage and reduce pain. As an osteopath with over a decade of experience, Bob discusses his background, the motivation for starting the podcast, and the wide range of subjects he plans to cover. While he is flying solo in this episode, he will be joined by co-host Louise Gordon in the others where they will cover future topics including Busting some of the myths that surround back pain. Why you need to know what kinesiophobia (fear of movement) is and what you can do about it.A simple explanation of what sciatica is with tips on how to manage it.Some of the serious issues that can result from being hypermobile (double-jointed).A breakdown of Fibromyalgia and what to do if you have it.A look at ways to manage your pain using things like TENS machines, Kinesio tape, shockwave, and lumbar supports and why postural supports are a waste of money. Bob also shares his plans for future episodes which will include guest appearances from people who are key influencers in the health and wellbeing world and others with an interesting health-related story to tell. Subscribe to the podcast and learn simple, practical ways to either get rid of or reduce your pain, and prevent it from coming back. These tips will be useful whatever your age and whether you are able-bodied or have a disability. The aim is also to grow a community that is dedicated to wellness and happy to get involved and exchange ideas about what has worked for them. If there are any topics you would like to see covered in a future episode please send them in and I will add them to the list. More info on Bob and what Pain Free Living is all about You can find out more about Bob and why he became an osteopath here Sign up for the very popular Monthly Pain Free Living newsletter here If you want to follow Bob on social media this is the place for you linktr.ee/Painfreeliving

    8 min
  • 12 Episodes

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

I'm Bob Allen and I have been helping people manage their pain since 2008. I am an osteopath and physical therapist and the Pain Free Living channel is here to provide you with jargon-free, simple explanations for common pain problems like headaches, back, neck, and shoulder pain, and arthritis and explain why stress can make things worse I will also be covering important topics like the way your nervous system works, ways to reduce Fibromyalgia symptoms, Kinesiophobia (fear of pain through movement), why NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis) is a good thing and other things you need to know about to help you enjoy a pain-free life. I always say "Movement is medicine" as exercise is a great way to prevent pain. We will look at the practical type that gets your muscles and joints moving better rather than the kind that leaves you in a pool of sweat in the corner of the gym (but we can cover that if you really want me to!). If you like understanding how your body works, why you might be in pain, and want practical advice on managing that pain this is the channel for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Bob Allen
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Bob Allen
  • Show Website
    Pain Free Living

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