Dr. Michael Lenz and the Link Between Fibromyalgia and Autism

Feb 17, 2025

Dr. Michael Lenz, a physician and author specializing in chronic pain and neurodiversity, dives deep into the connection between fibromyalgia and autism. He unpacks various types of pain and their relevance to conditions like ADHD and sensory processing differences. The conversation highlights the emotional toll of being dismissed in healthcare and advocates for compassionate, interdisciplinary care. Lenz shares compelling patient stories and stresses the need for better medical understanding and education around neurodivergent experiences with chronic pain.

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INSIGHT

Three Types of Pain Explained

Chronic pain divides into nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic types, with the latter often misunderstood.
Fibromyalgia exemplifies nociplastic pain where perception of injury exceeds actual tissue damage.

INSIGHT

Mast Cells & Nervous System Link

Mast cell activation in fibromyalgia reflects a hyperresponsive nervous system signaling rather than faulty mast cells.
Central nervous system likely triggers mast cells' reactions, linking neurological with immune symptoms.

ANECDOTE

Hidden Chronic Pain Revealed

A college student concealed chronic, widespread pain due to dismissal by previous doctors.
Upon careful examination, fibromyalgia, ADHD, restless leg syndrome, and autism diagnosis led to effective treatment and relief.

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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael Lenz, a physician specializing in pediatrics, internal medicine, lifestyle medicine, and lipidology. Dr. Lenz is the author of Conquering Your Fibromyalgia and host of the podcast by the same name. His passion for lifelong learning and holistic patient care has led him to specialize in chronic pain syndromes — conditions that are often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and dismissed by the medical community.

Together, we explore:

The different types of pain — nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic — and why understanding these distinctions is crucial
How chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, POTS, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), and migraines often intersect with neurodivergence
Why so many autistic and ADHD individuals experience chronic pain and how sensory processing differences can complicate diagnosis and treatment
The emotional and psychological impact of being dismissed by medical professionals
Why outdated medical education and systemic gaps continue to leave neurodivergent patients struggling for validation and relief

Dr. Lenz also shares insights from his clinical experience, including real patient stories that highlight the need for greater awareness, compassion, and interdisciplinary care. If you've ever felt unheard or gaslighted by the medical system — or if you want to understand the complex relationship between neurodivergence and chronic pain — this conversation is for you.

Watch this episode on YouTube.

Check out Dr. Michael Lenz's website: Conquering Your Fibromyalgia

Theme music: "Everything Feels New" by Evgeny Bardyuzha.

All episodes written and produced by Kristen Hovet.

Send in your questions or thoughts via audio or video recording for a chance to be featured on the show! Email your audio or video clips to otherautism@gmail.com through WeTransfer.

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The views, opinions, and experiences shared by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or production team. The content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical or professional advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions related to your health, fitness, or wellness.