About - Pain Misunderstood

Why We Get Pain Wrong—And What Happens When We Get It Right

Pain, Misunderstood is a groundbreaking documentary that unpacks the science, stories, and societal myths surrounding chronic pain in America. This isn’t a film about pain relief. It’s a film about transformation—of minds, systems, and lives.

The Problem

Despite being one of the most common human experiences, pain remains widely misunderstood. Our healthcare system often treats it as a symptom to silence, rather than a signal to understand. Millions of people are left feeling dismissed, overmedicated, and without answers.

The Film

Blending intimate patient journeys, world-class scientific insight, and visually stunning animations, Pain, Misunderstood challenges the way we think about pain—and healing. Through expert interviews and real-life stories, the film reveals how the brain and body process pain, why conventional care often falls short, and what a more hopeful path forward looks like.

The Why

Pain is not just a medical issue—it’s a societal one. Our culture of quick fixes and “push through it” mentalities has created a crisis of invisible suffering. This film invites patients, providers, and communities to rewrite the script on pain—together.

Who It’s For

Whether you’re living with pain, treating patients, teaching the next generation of healthcare providers, or simply curious—Pain, Misunderstood is for you.

Key Themes

What is pain? Understanding Pain: Pain isn’t just a symptom; it’s a complex, treatable phenomenon, new field of science

Trust: putting human beings at the center of the story, pain is personal.

Relationship with Pain: Empowerment: Equip viewers with knowledge and tools to manage and prevent pain.

Deliver Hope: Inspire patients, providers, and communities with stories of recovery and resilience. Pain is complex.

Why We Get Pain Wrong—And What Happens When We Get It Right

The Problem

The Film

The Why

Who It’s For

Key Themes

Why We’ve Been Getting Pain Wrong And What Clinicians Can Do About It

Advocate for Yourself: 5 Questions to Bring to Your Next Appointment

Inside the Making of Pain, Misunderstood: Why We Had to Tell This Story

Confluent Health Releases Groundbreaking Documentary to Tackle America’s Chronic Pain Crisis

WDRB Coverage: Louisville-based health company releases documentary to rethink chronic pain treatment