If your life or the life of someone you love has been hijacked by pain, you're not alone. One out of every three US adults lives with chronic pain - pain that can rob you of your vitality, confidence, friendships, intimacy, and even your will to live. But it doesn't have to be that way. That's why the experts at Mayo Clinic have teamed with The Great Courses to craft this research-based guide to pain relief and recovery.

In The Mayo Clinic Guide to Pain Relief, Barbara K. Bruce, PhD., L.P., provides a tried-and-true framework for coping with chronic pain. Dr. Bruce's scientific explanations and biology-based suggestions can help you create a vibrant and fulfilling future for yourself, in spite of chronic pain.

Based on a scientific understanding of the causes of pain and behaviors that make pain better or worse, Dr. Bruce explains why opioids do not work for chronic non-cancer pain; how to empower yourself by developing appropriate "SMART" goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-limited; and how social support affects your physical health. You'll learn about the extraordinary complexities in your brain's interpretation and management of pain and the multifaceted relationships between pain and stress.

This course provides a practical guide for building an appropriate health care team and creating an individualized pain-management program with your physician that addresses the issues of physical stamina, stress management, social support, sleep, and mood. Dr. Bruce doesn't want you to wait for a cure or pain relief before you move back into your life. "I want you to begin living your life today", she says. And with this course, you'll be on your way.