
Sawbones: A Marital Tour of Misguided Medicine
Join Dr. Sydnee McElroy and her husband Justin McElroy for a tour of all the dumb, bad, gross, weird and wrong ways we've tried to fix people.
Latest episodes

May 21, 2024 • 39min
Sawbones: Hydrogen Water
Dr. Sydnee has ruined her TikTok algorithm for the listeners once again and came across something called "Hydrogen Water." Similar to alkaline water, hydrogen water goes through an ionization process that leaves it with excess hydrogen molecules. But . . . is it better than regular water? Probably not. Music: "Medicines" by The Taxpayers https://taxpayers.bandcamp.com/

May 7, 2024 • 45min
Sawbones: Plexus
Exploring the MLM Plexus, hosts discuss its controversial history, lack of FDA evaluation, and product expansion into weight management and wellness. They tackle topics like self breast exams, gut health items, nerve pain relief products, and Plexus' business model with a cautionary view on misleading claims and income potential for brand ambassadors.

Apr 30, 2024 • 39min
Sawbones: Vampire Facials
You may have seen some celebrities or influencers on social media getting something called a Vampire Facial. It's exactly what it sounds like: blood spread on the face like a cream mask. But why would anyone do this unless it's supposed to do something for the skin? Dr. Sydnee and Justin draw out where this trend came from and its questionable benefits.Music: "Medicines" by The Taxpayers https://taxpayers.bandcamp.com/

Apr 23, 2024 • 42min
Sawbones: CPR
This podcast delves into the fascinating history and techniques of CPR, debunking misconceptions from movies and TV. It explores the evolution of resuscitation methods, from ancient origins to modern practices. The hosts discuss the importance of proper training for life-saving techniques and highlight unique historical cases, like rectal fumigation for drowning victims.

Apr 16, 2024 • 40min
Sawbones: Lazarus Syndrome
Delving into Lazarus Syndrome, the hosts explore CPR reality vs media portrayal, unexpected revivals, and challenges in declaring death. They discuss convenient meal options, plant buying support, naloxone risks, and uncertainties in death declarations. The miraculous case of Velma Thomas in Nitro, WV adds a touch of unpredictability to medical intervention.

Apr 9, 2024 • 41min
Sawbones: Sea Moss
The podcast explores the trendy superfood sea moss, discussing its historical use for ulcers, vegan gelatin substitute, and lack of proven medical benefits. It delves into sea moss origins, confusing market labels, transition to tank cultivation, wellness influencers' promotion, and potential risks of excess iodine consumption.

Apr 4, 2024 • 42min
Sawbones: Interpreting Research
The podcast explores the challenges of discerning between good and bad research, the impact of pay-to-publish journals, and the importance of peer review in scientific studies. It also emphasizes the significance of seeking expert advice for accurate interpretation of research data in healthcare decisions.

Mar 28, 2024 • 51min
Sawbones: Gamer Pills
Exploring the world of 'gamer pills,' the hosts discuss supplements claiming to boost focus and energy for gamers, despite lacking doctor approval. They delve into ingredients like caffeine derivatives, teacrine, and theacrine, and the risks associated with these performance-enhancing supplements.

Mar 19, 2024 • 52min
Sawbones: Can You Lick the Capsaicin Patch?
Dr. Sydnee and Justin are welcoming in the spring and allergy season with listeners' strangest medical questions! Why do some people get goosebumps when they do alcohol shots? Does baking soda work for bug bites? Do people with facial hair get more sick? And for real, how long can you REALLY actually look at an eclipse before it's unsafe? Music: "Medicines" by The Taxpayers https://taxpayers.bandcamp.com/

Mar 12, 2024 • 43min
Sawbones: Bad Bugs
There are many ways people get sick, but sometimes diseases are carried to people by insects. Dr. Sydnee and Justin talk about the top ten "bad bugs" including mosquitoes, ticks, assassin bugs, and some beetles that are big and bad. Music: "Medicines" by The Taxpayers https://taxpayers.bandcamp.com/