Pain Misunderstood

Why We Get It Wrong — And How to Get It Right

The Future of Pain Starts With Us

Confluent Health is proud to lead a national conversation on transforming how we understand, teach, and treat chronic pain.

Pain, Misunderstood’ unpacks the science, stories, and societal myths around chronic pain. Through patient journeys, expert insight, and bold visuals, this documentary challenges everything we think we know about hurting — and healing.

This is not a documentary about pain relief. It’s a story about human resilience, the scientific revolution, and the urgent need to rewrite our cultural script on pain.

Over 20% of Americans experience chronic pain.

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Increase in the number of Americans suffering from 1988 to today.

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Chronic pain is the leading cause of disability globally.

# 1

The more I learn about chronic pain, the more I realize that patients are desperate for help. Healthcare providers have so much to offer, but they don’t even know it.

Adriaan Louw, PT, PhD

What makes me excited about teaching at the post-professional level is that the learners are like me – clinicians who continually strive for excellence and improved patient outcomes. Those learners wanting to take on pain demonstrate a passionate commitment not only to empower and improve their patients’ lives but elevate the health care profession as a whole.