The Neuroscience Behind Recovery – Understanding the Brain’s Role in Healing
At Berkley Industrial Comp, we believe that recovery from a workplace injury is more than just physical—it’s personal, emotional, and deeply neurological. In the latest episode of our Adjusted podcast, we explore this critical dimension with Dr. Alex Korb, a UCLA neuroscientist, anxiety coach, and author of The Upward Spiral.
Dr. Korb brings a compelling perspective to the conversation: the brain is not just a bystander in recovery—it’s a key player. Understanding how our neural circuits function can help injured workers and those who support them foster a more effective, compassionate path to healing.
The Brain’s Circuitry: More Than Meets the Eye
Dr. Korb explains that our brains are composed of multiple circuits—worry, habit, imagination, and decision-making—each evolved for different purposes. These circuits vary in activity from person to person, much like physical traits. This variability isn’t a flaw; it’s part of what makes each recovery journey unique.
When someone is injured, these circuits can interact in ways that either support healing or hinder it. For example, worry can activate habitual responses like isolation or inactivity, reinforcing a downward spiral that compounds physical pain with emotional distress.
Emotions Matter: Acknowledgment as a First Step
One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode is the importance of acknowledging emotions. Injured workers often feel pressure to “stay strong” or “push through,” but unacknowledged emotions don’t disappear—they manifest physically, often as chronic pain or fatigue.
Dr. Korb encourages a shift in mindset: rather than suppressing emotions, we should recognize and validate them. This emotional honesty is not a sign of weakness—it’s a foundation for recovery.
The Cost of Self-Criticism
High-performing individuals often rely on self-criticism to drive success. But in the context of injury recovery, this internal voice can become a barrier. Thoughts like “I should be better by now” or “I’m letting my team down” don’t motivate—they demoralize.
Dr. Korb emphasizes the need for self-compassion. It’s not about lowering standards—it’s about creating a mental environment where healing can occur.
Small Wins, Big Impact
Recovery doesn’t require giant leaps. In fact, small, consistent actions can create powerful momentum. A short walk, a moment of sunlight, or a completed task can trigger positive changes in brain chemistry—boosting dopamine, improving sleep, and reducing pain perception.
These micro-adjustments help shift the brain from a downward spiral to an upward one, where healing becomes more sustainable and empowering.
Gratitude as a Balancing Act
Gratitude isn’t about ignoring pain or pretending everything is fine. It’s about redirecting attention to what’s still working—supportive relationships, access to care, or even simple comforts. This practice helps balance the emotional landscape and fosters resilience.
Emotional Sensitivity: A Hidden Strength
Perhaps the most inspiring insight from Dr. Korb is his reframing of emotional sensitivity. He compares it to driving a Ferrari—more responsive, more powerful, and yes, sometimes harder to manage. But with the right tools and understanding, it becomes a tremendous asset. Emotionally sensitive individuals often experience deeper empathy, stronger connections, and greater creativity. In the context of recovery, this sensitivity can be harnessed to build resilience, foster meaningful support systems, and ultimately accelerate healing.
Supporting the Whole Person
At Berkley Industrial Comp, we’re committed to supporting the whole person—not just the injury. This episode of Adjusted reminds us that healing is as much about mindset and emotional well-being as it is about medical treatment. By understanding the brain’s role in recovery, we can better support injured workers on their journey—one small, meaningful step at a time.