Outsmart the Pain

Chronic pain affects millions worldwide, yet few truly understand how it works—or how to break free from its grip. In Outsmart the Pain, pain specialist Dr Karsten Ahlbeck and bestselling author Carin Hjulström offer a groundbreaking approach to managing persistent pain by retraining the brain.

Carin, a journalist and novelist, spent nearly a decade searching for relief from severe pain in her legs and gluteal muscles. It wasn’t until she met Dr Ahlbeck in 2019 that she finally received an explanation: her body had healed, but her brain continued to send faulty pain signals—like a fire alarm that won’t turn off even after the fire is extinguished. Shocked by how little this knowledge was shared, she immediately proposed writing a book to help others in the same situation.

Drawing on the latest research and real-life patient experiences, Outsmart the Pain explains in clear, accessible language how chronic pain develops, why the brain plays a central role, and—most importantly—what can be done to take control of it. With practical tools and expert insights, this book empowers readers to challenge their pain and improve their quality of life.

Since its publication, Outsmart the Pain has transformed the lives of thousands. Readers describe it as life-changing, with many reading it multiple times. To date, the book has sold over 26,000 copies and continues to offer hope to those struggling with persistent pain.

Original title: Överlista smärtan

Published by: Bonnier Fakta, August 2021

Reader reviews:

"This book has been a great support in how my husband, our son, and I have tackled the journey of our son’s long-term pain after surgery. Invaluable recommendations and tips that have helped us navigate both healthcare and daily life."

"A good book for patients and relatives. It explains well how pain and medications work."

"A great support for pain patients, relatives, friends, and especially healthcare professionals! Read it and move forward! It’s worth it—for your sake."

"An important topic to highlight and a crucial book for people with pain conditions. There should definitely be more courses on pain in medical school and much more information provided to healthcare staff."

"Recommended. Anyone suffering from chronic pain should read this book, but so should everyone else, as it includes valuable information on pain-relieving medication."

"A new perspective. Reading this book turned my life around. I’ve lived with chronic pain for ten years. There are so many great tips and pieces of advice that make life easier and help reduce pain. It’s written in a pedagogical way, making it easy to understand, which I truly appreciate. I even bought a copy for a friend who experiences the same struggles. As long as you’re open and willing to try new approaches, this book can be life-changing. It’s absolutely worth reading."

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