Brain Chat: From Signal to Sensation: Understanding Nerve Pain

Brain Chat with the Nerdy Neurologist is a podcast hosted by Mitzi Joi Williams, MD that brings together leading clinicians and experts to translate complex neurologic topics into practical, patient-centered conversations. By combining the latest scientific advances with real-world clinical experience, the series helps listeners better understand neurologic diseases, emerging research, and the decisions that shape diagnosis and long-term care.

In this episode, Williams is joined by Derek Cox, MD, a physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and chief medical officer of Regenerative Orthopedic Center in Alpharetta, Georgia, to discuss the complex nature of nerve pain and the challenges of managing it. The conversation explores how nerve pain differs from muscle and joint pain, why pain can persist even after an injury has healed, and how peripheral and central sensitization can contribute to ongoing symptoms. Williams and Cox also discuss the importance of identifying the underlying cause of nerve pain, setting realistic treatment expectations, and incorporating rehabilitation, desensitization techniques, lifestyle modifications, and multidisciplinary care.

EPISODE BREAKDOWN:

• Understanding what makes nerve pain different
• Why nerve pain can persist after an injury heals
• Recognizing the causes and underlying mechanisms of nerve pain
• Why identifying the root cause matters for treatment
• Setting realistic expectations for nerve pain management
• The role of rehabilitation and desensitization strategies
• How sleep, mood, and lifestyle can influence pain
• Recognizing symptoms that warrant further evaluation
• Maintaining function and quality of life despite chronic pain

Other formats:

Listen to the show on Apple Podcasts.

Watch the episode on YouTube.