Episode 23: The Parts That Hurt - When Protection Becomes Pain

Episode Description

Ever feel like you're at war with yourself when dealing with chronic pain? One part of you wants to push through while another screams "stop!" In this episode, Dr. Zev Nevo explores Internal Family Systems (IFS) and how understanding the different "parts" of yourself can transform your pain experience. Learn why these internal conflicts keep your nervous system in threat mode—and what you can do about it.

00:00 Introduction to Chronic Pain and Internal Conflict

01:21 Understanding Internal Family Systems (IFS)

01:39 Real-Life Examples of Internal Conflict

05:03 The Neuroscience Behind Pain and Internal Conflict

16:31 Practical Steps to Work with Your Parts

31:29 Common Questions and Answers

34:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

What You'll Learn

• Why you have conflicting voices about your pain (and why that's completely normal)
• How Internal Family Systems helps you understand your internal "family" of parts
• The neuroscience behind why internal conflict amplifies pain signals
• Four practical techniques to work with your parts starting today
• How accessing "Self" can shift your nervous system from threat to safety
• Real patient stories of transformation through parts work

Key Concepts Covered

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

• Protector parts: The voices trying to keep you safe
• Exiled parts: Emotional pain that needs to be seen and healed
• The Critic: The harsh voice that's actually trying to motivate you
• Self: The calm, compassionate center underneath all the parts

The Neuroscience Connection

• Fear avoidance model of chronic pain
• How threat detection amplifies pain (amygdala & anterior cingulate cortex)
• Polyvagal theory and nervous system states
• Heart rate variability and pain regulation
• The bio-psychosocial model of pain

Four Practices You Can Start Today

1. Parts Mapping - Notice and name which parts show up during pain
2. Get Curious - Interview your parts to understand their positive intentions
3. Thank & Reassure - Acknowledge parts for trying to help, then update them
4. Unblend - Create distance when a part takes over completely

Research Discussed

• Yoni Ashar's 2022 JAMA Psychiatry study on Pain Reprocessing Therapy
• Tracy et al. (2016) on heart rate variability and chronic pain
• Lumley et al. (2017) on Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy
• Dr. Stephen Porges' polyvagal theory

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This essential pre-roll message serves as a clear disclaimer, stating that the podcast provides pain and trauma-informed psychoeducation for informational and entertainment purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Listeners are reminded to always consult a qualified healthcare professional for specific medical conditions or symptoms.

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LINKS:

• Body and Mind Pain Center
• Mind Body Rehabilitation
• Substack