Have you ever wondered how something works or how something was made? In the monthly Science Behind series, we partner with a guest presenter to explore a large variety of interesting topics. The Science Behind series offers opportunities for adults to apply new knowledge and skills to everyday life, while having fun! 

** This Science Behind event took place in December, 2014 **

The Science Behind Pain | How We Sense & Manage Pain

We’ve all experienced physical pain at some point or another, and many of us might deal with chronic pain, but why must we feel it? The answer is not quite as existential as the question! Visit Walking Mountains Science Center for the Science Behind Pain on Wednesday, December 10, 2014 from 6:30-8:00PM to learn how pain is nature’s unpleasant but crucial way to help us identify bodily threats. Our guest presenters from Ascent Physical Therapy in Avon will teach us about why and how we sense pain. The brain is the central player in managing pain, and education alone can reduce the physical pain that sometimes lingers after our injuries heal.

Keith McCarroll, PT is the owner of Ascent Physical Therapy.  Keith graduated with his physical therapy degree from Northeastern University in Boston.  After working on the Front Range for a few years he moved to Eagle County for good in 1997.  Keith started Ascent PT in 2005 in Avon where he specializes in orthopedic physical therapy.  He has advanced training in movement analysis, trigger point dry needling, custom orthotic fitting, and ergonomic evaluation.  He has special interest in injury prevention in both occupational and athletic settings.

Lauren Shaeffer, DPT, is a native of Eagle County. She earned her undergraduate degree from Montana State University and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Simmons College in Boston. Her special interests include working with patients recovering from and or living with neurological conditions such as Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, balance impairments and other degenerative conditions. She also enjoys working with orthopedic injuries or conditions involving the spine. Avid in recreational activities herself, she takes pride in enhancing the performance of individuals of all ages in our active outdoor community through her manual orthopedic skills.

Anyone who is interested in managing and preventing pain would benefit from learning the fascinating science of pain.

Space is limited, please call Walking Mountains Science Center at (970) 827-9725 to RSVP. The Science Behind Series is made possible by Vail Honeywagon Enterprises, Inc.

If You Go...
What: The Science Behind Pain
When: Wednesday, December 10, 2014 |  6:30pm
Where: Walking Mountains Science Center, Avon
Cost: FREE