Why We Hurt

Essential information for anyone
affected by persistent pain

Flippin Pain is endorsed by The British Pain Society and The European Pain Federation

The logos for the British Pain Society and the European Pain Federation

Is Why We Hurt something for me?

What is Why We Hurt?

Why We Hurt is an online programme that shares the latest science of pain in a way that is easy to understand.

Getting to know how pain works can be a game-changer. Research has shown that it can change how we think about persistent pain, what we do about it, and even how it feels.

It can reduce some of the fear and frustration of persistent pain, give you back control, and hopefully be an important step on the path to recovery.

There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and that it can be difficult to know what to trust. That’s why Flippin’ Pain’s group of experts have created this group of videos and activities for you.

It’s absolutely free to sign up!

How do I know if it’s right for me?

Why We Hurt focuses on persistent pain (also known as chronic pain). This is any pain that has been present for more than 3 months.

This information can be relevant and useful to anyone. No matter how severe your pain, where you feel it, or whether you’ve had it for 3 months or 30 years.

What does it involve?

Why We Hurt includes a series of 8 short videos, with short tasks related to each. You can download extra information and post in a group chat if you choose to.

Is this legit?

Yes! This information is backed by organisations such as the NHS and NICE, as well as the British Pain Society and the European Pain Federation.

Why We Hurt does not replace the role of individual medical care. If you are worried by new and undiagnosed symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional.

"The change started with understanding my pain."

A photograph of Community Pain Champion Kai DaCosta
Open quote

I was an 18 year old mechanic when my life changed forever after a motorcycle crash. The sharp shooting pains I would get through both my arms soon became so severe that I underwent risky spinal surgeries and increased my medication to try and help relieve the pain… but it only made it worse. I’ve now been medication free for two years and have my life back, and the change started with understanding my pain.

Close quotes

This isn’t ‘one size fits all!"

Photograph of Sam Fielding, Flippin' Pain Campaign Manager
Open quote

We wanted to create something that speaks to everyone in pain. No matter how much pain you’re experiencing, or how much it interferes with your life, this information could help. Why We Hurt can help you get to grips with what’s going on, and what’s best for YOU.

Close quotes

"Understanding pain was the answer I'd sought for 30 years."

A photo of Lee Vaughn, contributor in Why We Hurt
Open quote

Pain ruled most of my adult life. It's a lonely place when there's little reason for why we hurt. Understanding pain was the answer I'd sought for 30 years. It's difficult to let go of current understandings and beliefs, but it's how we turn the page and write a story with a better ending.

Close quotes

“It changed my relationship with pain."

A photograph of Flippin' Pain friend Niki Jones
Open quote

Having severe persistent pain is a dark, isolating and scary life: one I existed in for 17 years. When I was able to really understand persistent pain, it changed my relationship with pain. This has made such a huge difference for me.

Close quotes

“No-nonsense, practical advice.”

A photograph of Richard Pell, Director of Flippin' Pain
Open quote

Getting to know how pain works is a gamechanger. We’ve seen so many people improve. Why We Hurt is the easiest way to understand the new science of pain: we wanted to make something that was interesting, fun and easy to understand.

Close quotes


If you haven’t received in the invite within 24 hours, please send us an email
Already signed up? Log in here.

We're incredibly proud to have worked with and receive support from some fantastic organisations.

Flippin' Pain are proud to be endorsed by