Listen "Understanding Chronic Pain with Nicola Michell"
Episode Synopsis
This week on Inside the Box, we're diving deep into the multifaceted world of chronic pain, and how to treat it with both science and empathy. Our guest is Nicola Michell, the founder of City Physio in Sydney’s CBD, a titled Pain Physio who thrives on complexity, loves a challenge, and is on a mission to prevent chronicity where possible.Nicola brings a rare mix of clinical insight, real-life experience, and passionate advocacy for better chronic pain management—especially for women. She’s also a mum to Audrey, chronically sleep-deprived, a strength-training junkie, black coffee lover, and still somehow finds time to keep up with Grey’s Anatomy.In This Episode, We Explore:The Complex Nature of Chronic PainWhat makes chronic pain so misunderstood—and so difficult to treat?Physio’s Role in Chronic PainHow can we, as physiotherapists, evolve our approach and better support patients in pain?Sleep & Pain: A Two-Way StreetWhat we now know about the relationship between chronic pain and sleep disturbancesNicola’s practical tips for helping your body access restorative sleepPain on a PlateThe impact of diet on chronic pain conditionsNutritional insights for women’s pain management—what helps, what harmsPerimenopause & Hormonal ShiftsWhy oestrogen plays a critical role in pain modulation, and how changing hormones in midlife can affect pain experienceThe Caregiver’s BurdenHow traditional female caregiving roles increase the emotional load—and how this intensifies chronic pain experiencesThe Science of Threat & ConditioningClassical conditioning, perceived threat, and how the brain “learns” painHow this knowledge can reshape the way we talk to and treat people in painWhether you're a clinician looking to deepen your understanding, or someone navigating chronic pain yourself, this episode offers science-backed insights, honest conversation, and practical tools for a more holistic approach.Connect with Nicola MichellInstagram: @nicola_cityphysioCity Physio: https://cityphysio.com.au
More episodes of the podcast Inside the Box
Season 3, Episode 1: Back in the Box
18/06/2025