Ep 25. Dr. Howard Schubiner: The Real Cause of Migraine and How You Can Unlearn Your Pain
JUN 1, 202668 MIN
Ep 25. Dr. Howard Schubiner: The Real Cause of Migraine and How You Can Unlearn Your Pain
JUN 1, 202668 MIN
Description
Send us Fan MailIf you're looking for real migraine relief, this conversation reframes everything you've been told.In this episode I talk with Dr. Howard Schubiner, an internist, paediatrician, researcher, educator, author, and clinical professor at the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. We talk about migraine through a neuroplastic pain lens and insights from his newly released book, "Unlearn Your Pain" (May 26, 2026). Dr. Schubiner explains that migraine commonly co-occurs with other neuroplastic conditions, often fluctuates over time, and reflects learned neural circuits influenced by perceived danger, stress, and past experiences rather than tissue damage. He discusses why physiological changes in migraine aren’t necessarily structural injury, how placebo/nocebo effects and treatments like CGRP inhibitors and Botox highlight the brain’s role, and how trigger monitoring and lifestyle “compliance” can increase fear and symptoms. We cover genetics vs epigenetics, modeling effects in families, addressing emotions and stress, paradoxical intention to reduce fear, and practical guidance on rest vs activity during severe episodes.00:00 Meet Dr Howard Schubiner03:58 New Book Buzz05:08 What Is Different About This Book06:33 Migraine As Neuroplastic Pain10:48 Neural Circuits Explained13:39 Safety vs. Danger Signal16:24 Migraine Biology with Mindbody Lens19:58 Medications And Placebo22:49 Botox And Hypervigilance28:03 Triggers And Conditioning31:06 Fearful Thoughts Impact on Recovery34:12 Can Migraine Be Inherited?36:05 Genetics vs Epigenetics38:47 Family Modeling Effects40:09 Role of Childhood Trauma42:31 Redefining Stress44:38 Safety Messages to Brain47:48 Rest or Push Through53:25 Fearful Monitoring Loops55:59 When did Symptoms Begin59:26 Disease Label vs Neuroplastic01:03:01 Resources and Farewell___________Find Dr. Schbiner:· Instagram: @hschubiner· websites: www.unlearnyourpain.com, www.freedomfromchronicpain.com· “The Science Behind The Symptoms” Podcast w. Dr. Becca Kennedy· ATNS: www.symptomatic.meThe FREE Online "Chronic Pain Healing Summit" - November 13-14, 2026 where Dr. Schubiner will be speaking. Mentioned at the end: Living Proof, a UK non-profit helping to raise awareness of this mindbody approach to neuroplastic conditions. ____Thanks for listening - I hope you found this helpful. FIND ME HERE @ www.migraineoasis.com/linkinbioLet's continue the conversation...COME SAY HI! ✅ INSTAGRAM: Follow Migraine Oasis @MigraineOasis ✅ FACEBOOK: Join our Community @MigraineOasis ✅ YOUTUBE: Watch us @MigraineOasis ____Education and techniques discussed in this Podcast originate from many sources, countless hours of research, training, and self-healing unless otherwise noted.Music credit: MomotMusic, Kyrylo Momot___Disclaimer: Information provided by Migraine Oasis & Karen Ash is for general informational & educational purposes only & is not a substitute for medical advice, psychotherapy, or counselling. Utilizing any of the education, strategies, or techniques in the podcast is done at your own risk. Consult with a physician before engaging in any suggested movements. If in immediate danger, call a local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room.