From 27 April to 1 May 2025, the Pain Association of Singapore, in partnership with the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) and the Association of Southeast Asian Pain Societies (ASEAPS), hosted the 7th IASP–Southeast Asia Pain Management Camp. This four-day residential program convened 19 faculty and 37 early-career clinicians and researchers for an immersive learning experience designed to cultivate future leaders in pain management across Southeast Asia and beyond.
Participants representing countries across the region—including delegates from Hong Kong, Mongolia, and Romania—engaged in a rigorous and interactive curriculum that emphasized interdisciplinary approaches to pain care. The program featured evidence-based lectures, practical skill-building sessions, and case-based discussions, all grounded in contemporary pain science and clinical best practices.
Key topics included the application of the biopsychosocial model, pain-oriented sensory examinations, communication strategies, and behavioral techniques such as relaxation and mindfulness. A highlight of the week was a self-management session led by Professor Michael Nicholas, which stimulated vibrant discussions on the role of patient empowerment in the management of chronic pain.
Complementing the academic program were structured wellness activities—including mindfulness walks and group fitness sessions—underscoring the importance of clinician well-being. Social moments, such as birthday celebrations and team-based challenges, further fostered camaraderie and connection among participants.
Through collaborative assignments and peer-led presentations, participants shared regional insights and explored contextually relevant strategies for improving pain care in their respective communities. The camp concluded not simply with the distribution of certificates, but with the launch of a Community of Practice, the establishment of new mentorship relationships, and the articulation of SMART goals to guide future initiatives.
The 2025 IASP–Southeast Asia Pain Management Camp exemplified IASP’s commitment to supporting the professional development of emerging leaders in pain research and care. It also reaffirmed the value of regional collaboration in advancing the global mission of achieving pain relief worldwide.
