Iatrogenic Harm
Learn how you can reduce the risk of iatrogenic harm by advocating for yourself and becoming your access point to pain relief.
Iatrogenic Harm
Iatrogenic refers to any illness, injury, adverse effect, or complication that is caused by medical examination, treatment, or intervention (including diagnostic procedures, medications, surgery, or even the healthcare provider’s words/behavior). It is typically unintentional.
Can Still-Face Influence Iatrogenic Harm
When people are in the presence of a healthcare professional, they are often vulnerable and distressed. They are searching for someone to serve as their access point to feel better. This makes them more sensitive to a physician’s emotional presence or absence.
A still-faced doctor may use minimal eye contact, have a flat affect, be distracted by screens and notes, or have an overly detached demeanor. Experiencing this as a patient can trigger them to stop sharing important details, become passive, feel hopeless, or disengage with the treatment plan.
Still-face can contribute to iatrogenic harm indirectly, but meaningfully. While it rarely causes direct physical injury, it increases the risk of harm via behavioral pathways.
- It may impair communication and information exchange.
- Reduce trust and treatment adherence.
- Heighten distress and increase pain.
- May result in missed emotional and psychosocial factors.
- Could result in healthcare avoidance.
If you need counseling services but are concerned they may be beyond your financial means, there are resources available to you.
Walter’s Walk is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) counseling organization that supports the community by providing integrated mental health services to children and adults who have experienced trauma, depression and anxiety, regardless of their ability to pay. All of their providers are committed to the wellness of the community by serving those in need.
You may be able to reduce iatrogenic harm by becoming your own advocate, and by becoming your access point to pain relief and wellness.
Prior to an Appointment with a healthcare professional Write down your symptoms, what helps and worsens them, past treatments, and specific concerns.
Seek out practitioners who value empathy, clear explanations, and collaborative care.
Remind yourself, “I deserve clear, respectful communication. I can ask questions and advocate.“
Take the Next Step
Iatrogenic harm can occur when explanations, language, or interventions unintentionally increase fear and protective responses. Pain management coaching reduces that extra threat load by building safety, clarifying what pain means, and supporting more accurate, less alarming ways to understand your experience.
If you would like to explore how coaching can shift these patterns, you can learn more about pain management coaching.
Disclaimer
All information provided on this website, including, but not limited to, educational materials, pain neuroscience explanations, treatment suggestions, and any other content shared during sessions, classes, or coaching, is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition, nor is it a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
You should always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you receive here.
Jennifer Brand Spa
Pain Management at 2717 Hwy K, O’Fallon, MO 63368