🏛️ Award: Associate of Science (AS)
⏱ Duration: 2 Years (Full-time) | 4 Semesters
📚 Credits: 60 Credits
🔍 Program Overview:
The Associate of Science in Natural Pain Management is a specialized degree that equips students with scientific knowledge and practical skills to help manage pain using natural, non-invasive methods. Students will learn about anatomy, physiology, pain science, holistic therapies, herbal medicine, nutrition, bodywork, and stress-reduction techniques. The curriculum combines evidence-based approaches with traditional wisdom to empower future practitioners and promote client-centered care.
🧾 Core Curriculum (60 Credits Total)
General Education (20 Credits)
English Composition I – 3 credits
Introduction to Psychology – 3 credits
Anatomy and Physiology I – 4 credits
Human Biology – 3 credits
Communication and Wellness – 3 credits
Research and Critical Thinking – 4 credits
Major Courses (40 Credits)
Each course is 3–5 credits and includes theory, practical application, and assessments.
📘 Major Course Descriptions & Module Breakdown
🧠 1. Introduction to Pain Management (3 credits)
Course Description:
Explore the foundational principles of pain, including acute vs chronic pain, neurological pathways, pain perception, and psychological dimensions. Students will learn historical and cultural perspectives of natural pain relief.
Modules:
Understanding Pain: Definitions, Types, and Theories
The Mind-Body Connection in Pain
The History of Pain Management Across Cultures
Introduction to Natural and Alternative Approaches
🌿 2. Herbal Medicine for Pain Relief (4 credits)
Course Description:
This course focuses on the use of medicinal herbs for pain relief, covering traditional and modern applications. Safety, interactions, and preparations are emphasized.
Modules:
Introduction to Herbalism and Phytochemistry
Herbs for Inflammatory Pain (e.g., turmeric, ginger)
Nervine and Analgesic Herbs (e.g., valerian, willow bark)
Herb-Drug Interactions and Ethical Practice
🧬 3. Anatomy and Physiology II (4 credits)
Course Description:
A deeper exploration of the musculoskeletal, nervous, and endocrine systems—focusing on their roles in pain sensation and body function.
Modules:
Musculoskeletal System and Pain Receptors
The Nervous System and Pain Pathways
Endocrine System and Pain Modulation
Integrative Organ Systems in Chronic Conditions
🥗 4. Nutrition and Anti-Inflammatory Diets (3 credits)
Course Description:
Explore the role of food in inflammation and chronic pain. Topics include anti-inflammatory nutrition, elimination diets, and functional foods.
Modules:
Inflammation and Pain: The Dietary Link
Anti-Inflammatory Foods and Supplements
Gut Health and Pain Syndromes
Creating Dietary Plans for Pain Clients
🧘 5. Mind-Body Therapies for Pain (4 credits)
Course Description:
Study meditation, yoga, guided imagery, and other mindfulness-based therapies proven to reduce pain perception and enhance quality of life.
Modules:
Pain Neuroscience Education
Mindfulness and Meditation Practices
Guided Imagery, Breathwork, and Biofeedback
Integrating Mind-Body Therapy into Daily Life
💆 6. Massage, Acupressure, and Bodywork (4 credits)
Course Description:
Learn physical methods of pain relief, including therapeutic massage, trigger point therapy, and acupressure techniques from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Modules:
Introduction to Manual Therapies
Massage Techniques and Indications
Acupressure Points for Pain
Ethics, Safety, and Contraindications
🧪 7. Natural Supplements and Topicals (3 credits)
Course Description:
Covers popular natural pain relief products such as magnesium, MSM, arnica, capsaicin, and essential oils—alongside research on efficacy and safety.
Modules:
Overview of Common Natural Products
Mechanisms of Action in Pain Reduction
Topical Applications and Delivery Methods
Research Review and Safety Guidelines
🌐 8. Case Studies and Clinical Application (3 credits)
Course Description:
Apply learned concepts through case-based learning, mock consultations, and treatment planning. Emphasizes integrative and client-centered care.
Modules:
Pain Assessment and Intake Methods
Holistic Treatment Planning
Simulated Client Consultations
Ethics, Scope of Practice, and Referral Systems
🧾 9. Capstone Project: Holistic Pain Management Plan (4 credits)
Course Description:
In this culminating project, students develop a comprehensive natural pain management plan for a hypothetical or real case under supervision.
Modules:
Research and Data Collection
Writing and Presenting a Holistic Plan
Peer Review and Feedback
Final Project Presentation
📅 Suggested Program Timeline
Semester
Courses
Total Credits
Semester 1
English Composition I, Intro to Pain Management, Human Biology, Research Skills
15 credits
Semester 2
Anatomy & Physiology I, Herbal Medicine, Intro to Psychology
15 credits
Semester 3
Anatomy & Physiology II, Mind-Body Therapies, Natural Supplements
15 credits
Semester 4
Nutrition for Pain, Massage & Bodywork, Clinical Application, Capstone
15 credits