In this comprehensive book, Nathaniel Frank, Ph.D., an award-winning author, historian, and journalist offers an accessible examination of the causes of chronic pain and explores how education on the science of pain might be the key to feeling better. He chronicles the history of pain, the curious way pain works in the brain and body, misconceptions about pain, how pain differs across nations and cultures, and most importantly the recent scientific studies in pain science and new developments in pain recovery. He explains how chronic pain can be driven by a dysregulated nervous system, not just physical injury, making it potentially treatable through neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to change and heal. Once readers understand how pain works and the latest in pain recovery strategies, they'll see there is a way out of the pain cycle to break free from suffering, restore joy, and reclaim their lives.