Dr. Jeff Boissoneault - Chronic Pain and Substance UseDr. Jeff Boissoneault - Chronic Pain and Substance Use
The Addiction Psychologist
Dr. Jeff Boissoneault explores the link between chronic pain and substance use, stressing the need for effective pain treatment in recovery.
1:15:10•13 Dec 2023
Chronic Pain and Substance Use: A Conversation with Dr. Jeff Boissoneault
Episode Overview
- Dr. Boissoneault provides a comprehensive overview of chronic pain and its impact on individuals with substance use disorder
- The conversation delves into the emotional and cognitive components of pain, highlighting the need for addressing pain as part of the recovery process
- Dr. Boissoneault discusses the effects of alcohol on pain, from acute analgesic effects to the long-term impact of heavy alcohol use on pain sensitivity
- The challenges in pain management and the need for interdisciplinary treatments are explored
- Insights are shared on biases in medical decision-making related to pain and substance use
“Pain and substance use are linked though. So if you're working with people with chronic pain, probably people listening to this podcast are working with people with addiction concerns, but if you're working with people with chronic pain and you're not assessing substance use, then you really should be thinking about that.”
Ever wondered how chronic pain ties into substance use disorders? Dr. Jeff Boissoneault, an associate professor at the University of Minnesota, dives into this intricate relationship on 'The Addiction Psychologist'. Chronic pain often complicates recovery efforts, yet it frequently goes untreated due to addiction stigma. Dr. Boissoneault explains why addressing pain is crucial for those battling substance use disorders. He shares insights on different types of chronic pain, such as neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain, and their emotional and cognitive impacts.
The discussion also touches on how alcohol affects pain, from its short-term relief to its long-term detrimental effects on pain sensitivity. Dr. Boissoneault doesn't shy away from the challenges in pain management and the biases that exist in medical decision-making for those with addiction. This episode offers a thorough look at why treating chronic pain should be a priority in addiction recovery.

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