Ep 122 Chronic Pain Reset: 30 Days of Activities, Practices, and Skills to Help You Thrive with Dr. Afton Hassett Part 2

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Do you know what cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance of commitment therapy, and mindfulness-based stress reduction all have in common? They're all strategies Dr. Afton Hassett suggests in her book "Chronic Pain Reset" for managing chronic pain that we'll be dissecting in today's episode. Dr. Hassett's evidence-based approaches to chronic pain management are not just practical. Still, they also encourage the development of a personalized plan by trying out a different skill each day for 30 days. The goal is to build a repertoire of five to ten skills that work for you, leading to a better quality of life.

The conversation doesn't stop there, though. Our discussion turns into pediatric chronic pain and neuroimaging studies. We explore how understanding chronic pain can increase compassion and prevent burnout for pediatricians and family practice doctors. Before we wrap up, we probe the different treatments for chronic pain - from medication and physical therapy to innovative self-management programs like Pain Guide. We'll even touch on the implications of ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, hypersensitivity, and trauma related to chronic pain. This episode is packed with information on a topic that affects so many, and we hope to provide insights and strategies that can lead to a better understanding and management of chronic pain.

Dr. Lenz is an internist, pediatrician, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist interested in helping those with fibromyalgia and related problems go beyond just learning to live with it and even reverse fibromyalgia. He is also the author of the book "Conquering Your Fibromyalgia: Real Answers and Real Solut

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When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. You’re not alone. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 28+ years as an MD.

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