An Anatomy of Pain

This is a book of hope. Abdul-Ghaaliq Lalkhen is a doctor working in South Africa. His writing is not really scientific, which makes the book easily digestible an comprehensible. He tells the story about what pain is and how it works, His abstract view expands than into the different methods of intervention, with some upsides, but mostly downsides. The ending though gives hope for people who suffer from chronic pain and perhaps chart them to a different conversation with their doctors.

At times, Abdul comes across a little self-promotional, and the patient stories seem to be drawn out quite a bit. But if you suffer pain or especially chronic pain, this book has been written for you. For non-fiction buffs who like to learn background on mundane stuff, this is quite an enjoyable read, some great context on the current opioid crisis and who we may get out of it.

"An Anatomy of Pain" is a fascinating book. I'll definitely be recommending this one to patrons and some friends.

First off, sympathies to fellow sufferers, this is pretty concise book explaining pain. While I am familiar with much of what's in the book, SCS sounds interesting, but to me extreme, Meds really aren't much of an option for me, I hate taking meds! But I really detest doctors telling me I need to exercise more to keep my joints moving (garden variety arthritis), I exercise, then I just lay on the bed the rest of the day in to much pain to move! I don't think exercise is the answer to the ailment, I don't actually think there is one. Still, like all of us, I keep searching for a cure for the suffering. I've been hearing medical weed is doing amazing stuff, but haven't read any books on it as yet. I do agree most doctors seem to be tired of hearing of our pain and often shove us off on pain clinics. I don't know that opioids aren't the solution for chronic pain. Maybe it's just life. Anyway, the subject is one that will get attention and likely readers. It's well written and a layman can read and understand it (thank you!!). Maybe it will help someone find a solution to their misery. Kudos Abdul-Ghaaliq Lalkhen, it's a timely book.

I requested this book because I suffered from chronic pain however my pain threshold is very I've always wondered why that I can break my thumb and not flinch but there are times when the wind and rain causes me severe pain.I found this book very informative when it comes to pain and the way we perceive pain. I definitely think this is a really good read for doctors nurses people in the medical field and those who are just interested in why we feel pain and those who are in chronic pain. I for one do not like to take pain medication for my chronic pain it's just something that I have learned to live with and I felt like this book told me that I'm not alone.

More Memoir Than Hard Science. This was a memoir-based look at the field a man has made his career in, what the science he uses is, his thoughts on his field and his practice, and ultimately a bit of a guide on the general issues of the topic at hand. For what it is, it is very well written and easily readable. But those looking for a more "hard science", heavily referenced examination of the topic... won't find that here. But from a perspective of "I've been in this field for decades, and here is what the field is, what I've done in it, and where I think it should go"... yep, this book is exactly that, and a very good general overview of the field from that perspective. Very much recommended.

I received this book from Netgalley for review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The author is a British anesthesiologist with an extensive practice in pain management. Up to date and highly informative, this book covers his personal journey through treatments for his patients and his altered perspective; based upon years of experience. From surgery to clinics, early medical history to current protocol; the reader will find information and understand the concept of pain and it's effect on mine and body. This book was intriguing and insightful. Highly recommend to libraries and pain patients alike.