Among the most pressing issues for a person struggling with ongoing pain is the need for understandable information regarding the medical condition, as well as the need for validation that the pain is real. Dr. Tracy meets both of these needs in this landmark text. He is able to reduce complex medical terminology to understandable terms and interweave experiences and emotions to make this a compelling and interesting read. He also validates the individual's experience given a medical condition that is virtually unseen by others. He describes normal anatomy and physiology and then details what can happen to cause pain. What sets this book apart from other writings is the excellent description of the pain experience and how this can affect all areas of a person's life. Dr. Tracy leaves the reader with hope by answering a series of most commonly asked questions. Remarkably comprehensive and informative, this book is a must not only for individuals with pain, but for their support system and for any professionals working with these individuals.