132 - When Your Body Feels Stuck in Pain: A Mind-Body Conversation with Sarah Highland

If you’re living with chronic pain or pelvic pain - but medical tests keep coming back “normal” - this episode is for you.In this episode, host Elizabeth Mintun is joined by Sarah Highland, pelvic floor therapist and AASECT-certified sex counselor, to explore how chronic pain is created by the brain and nervous system, especially pain that doesn’t show up on scans. This conversation addressed the nervous system, central sensitization, shame, trauma, and why pain is always real - even when doctors can’t find a clear cause.If you’ve ever been told “nothing’s wrong” but your body says otherwise, this conversation will offer validation, clarity, and hope.Key TakeawaysPain is always real, even when tests show “nothing wrong.” Pain isn’t “in your head” - your nervous system interprets signals and creates the experience of pain, even without visible tissue damage.Healing often involves both mind and body. Trauma, stress, sleep, fear of movement, and medical experiences all influence chronic pain. Addressing these alongside physical care can be transformative.Hope exists even when pain feels hopeless. If you’ve tried medications or specialists without relief, exploring a biopsychosocial, nervous-system-informed approach can offer new pathways for healing.Resources Sarah Highland’s website: https://www.pelvicfloorandmore.com/Sarah’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/pelvicfloorandmore/Resources Sarah mentioned in this episode:Noigroup Clinical Discussions - YouTubeHome - Pelvic Global DirectoryRachel Zoffness Pain Science AuthorAn interesting study that speaks to the same topics: Association of Central Sensitization Inventory Scores With Pain Outcomes After Endometriosis Surgery | Obstetrics and Gynecology | JAMA Network Open | JAMA NetworkLearn more about 1:1 Coaching with Elizabeth Mintun here. Contact Elizabeth: [email protected] Elizabeth on Facebook & IG @thecalminggroundSubscribe to The Calming Ground Podcast so you never miss an episode. If you loved this conversation, please share it with a friend!