Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast

This podcast delves into the expected impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on chronic pain, exploring the disruption it has caused in daily life. Dr. Lenz discusses the psychological, physical, and social stressors brought by the pandemic, as well as the potential health consequences. He also reflects on long-haul COVID and calls for effective strategies for chronic pain management.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions The podcast discusses the historical medical phenomena of 'Railway Spine', a post-accident "traumatic neurosis" condition noted in the 19th century, and its relevance to understanding modern chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia. This condition often arose after railroad accidents, showing symptoms similar to fibromyalgia such as pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. The podcast discusses how physicians struggled to diagnose this condition due to the lack of clear physical abnormalities and the role of psychological factors, exploring the theories of notable physicians like Dr. Erickson and Dr. Page. It also mentions how the exploration of railway spine led to modern understanding of conditions like fibromyalgia, known as software problems in contrast to the hardware problems of classic organic conditions. Dr. Lenz emphasizes the importance of historical perspectives to understand and manage fibromyalgia better in the present.00:00 Introduction to Railway Spine00:39 Understanding the Symptoms of Railway Spine00:54 Medical Dilemma and Physician's Response02:00 Historical Perspective and Modern Relevance03:08 Symptoms and Overlapping Conditions12:16 Theories of Pathophysiology14:55 Psychological Impact and Trauma22:00 Evolution of Medical Understanding25:37 Reflections and Conclusions Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen 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. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this episode Dr. Michael Lenz  explores the historical understanding of chronic pain that lacks visible physical symptoms. He discusses stigma against sufferers, hypochondria, historical sex bias in pain understanding, and the transition in recognizing non-visible pain as real with the advent of functional MRIs. Dr. Lenz makes a case for the necessity of understanding the complexity of pain beyond the classic biomedical model and acknowledging the historical roots of current attitudes towards pain for better pain management in the present .00:00 Introduction to Chronic Pain and Stigma01:06 Understanding the Host's Background01:58 Exploring the Concept of Pain02:41 The Historical Perspective of Pain03:49 The Concept of Mechanical Objectivity05:19 The Clinical Gaze and its Impact08:56 The Role of Medical History in Understanding Pain09:17 The Stigma and Misunderstanding of Chronic Pain09:33 The Problem of Pain Without Lesion10:33 The Role of Forensic Science in Understanding Pain11:36 The Impact of Sex and Social Status on Pain Perception15:06 The Impact of Stigma on Pain Perception15:49 The Role of Modern Medical Approaches in Understanding Pain20:39 The Role of Legal Cases in Understanding Pain27:31 Conclusion: The Historical Impact on Current Pain Perception29:07 Final Thoughts  Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen 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. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Exploring the prestige rankings of medical conditions like leukemia compared to fibromyalgia, and the impact on patient care. Addressing the stigma and challenges faced by those with fibromyalgia, especially in relation to personal accountability. Examining the role of faith backgrounds in understanding pain and the historical context of chronic pain conditions.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Prepare to be captivated as we unravel the poignant life story of Rosemary Kennedy, in conversation with renowned author Kate Clifford Larson. Offering a fresh perspective on the lesser-known Kennedy daughter, we explore the profound impact of the Montessori method of education in her life. A technique that encourages experiential learning, this method significantly contributed to Rosemary's personal growth and the positive experience it offered her serves as a testament to its efficacy. The joyful resonance this brought to the community around her is truly heartening to hear. However, our conversation takes a darker turn as we navigate through the despairing later stages of Rosemary's life. We grapple with the underlying struggles she faced upon her return from England and the unfathomable decision her father made in the hope of curing her. Larson brings us face to face with the grim realities of a misguided lobotomy - the veiled truths, the unchecked optimism of doctors, and the tragic aftermath. Rosemary's story serves as an important reminder of cherishing and supporting those differently-abled, shedding light on a harsh past we must remember. This is a riveting tale of resilience and tragedy, one you won't soon forget. Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen 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. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions This  is the second episode of a series on Rosemary Kennedy. Using the biography as a guide to time travel into Rosemary's life, Dr Lenz uses a modern lens to reflect and support those living with similar challenges. It explores Rosemary's disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder and ADHD, and the challenges faced by her and the Kennedy family in seeking help for her when our present perspectives didn't exist. The episode discusses the influence of the eugenics movement during the 19th and early 20th centuries, which categorized certain individuals, including the intellectually and physically disabled, as defects. It covers the advocacy of prominent figures like Teddy Roosevelt and wealthy industrialists who supported eugenics. It highlights the hardships faced by Rosemary and her family due to societal stigmatization and the pursuit of a potential "cure."Dr. Lenz describes Rosemary's experiences at various boarding schools, the struggles she faced with academics, and the attempts made to address her intellectual and emotional challenges. He touches on the Kennedy family's privileged lifestyle during the Depression era and their efforts to find medical treatments, including endocrine therapies. He also mentions Rosemary's adjustment to new surroundings, such as her trip to Europe and her presentation at the British debutante season. Lastly, he emphasizes the importance of understanding, learning, and growing from the mistakes and misunderstandings of  the past to better appreciate and support those living with struggles in the present. Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen 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. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Do you ever wonder what it's like to unravel the secrets of a life long hidden from public view? Join us today as we sit down with acclaimed biographer Kate Clifford Larson, author of Rosemary - The Hidden Kennedy Daughter. Together, we embark on an emotional journey through the life of Rosemary Kennedy, beginning with her birth amid the Spanish Flu pandemic. We dive into the challenges Rosemary faced due to her intellectual disability and how the Kennedy family navigated these difficulties in a time when resources were scarce.Kate spent six years in the archives, piecing together Rosemary's story. Her groundbreaking findings suggest that Rosemary might have been on the autism spectrum and had ADHD which was unbeknownst to herself, her family, her physicians, and teachers. This revelation presents a new perspective on the hardships the Kennedy family had to overcome in their quest to provide the best care for their daughter. We also discuss the power and sometimes the struggle of storytelling, particularly when it comes to chronicling your experience of chronic pain. Tune in and be prepared to be moved by a poignant tale of resilience, determination, and the undying spirit of a family. This episode isn't just about history, it reflects life's trials and triumphs. Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen 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. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions What if the secret to overcoming chronic pain and illness doesn't lie in a pill bottle, but on our plates? Our guest, Tim Kaufman, knows this truth firsthand. His journey from a man dependent on opioids, tethered to a walker due to crippling pain, to a vibrant, healthy individual is nothing short of inspiring. By converting to a plant-based lifestyle, Tim found himself shedding weight, reclaiming his health, and breaking free from the shackles of chronic pain. An inspiring moment from his journey was his first walk after years of being sedentary. Hear his remarkable story in this episode.Living with chronic pain comes with its own unique set of challenges, and our conversation today delves deeply into these. For those battling with conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and finding little relief in traditional medications, there are alternative paths to explore. Tim found solace and relief in unexpected places like music, podcasts, and breathing techniques. His journey is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with chronic pain, showing how alternative coping mechanisms can make a world of difference.Finally, we'll see how the transformational power of food can help manage chronic pain. "Fat Man Rants" shares his journey of overcoming chronic pain and illness through dietary changes, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and preparation when adopting a plant-based lifestyle. Plus, we highlight the crucial role of doctors and offer a wealth of resources for those interested in making the switch. So join us in this exploration of the benefits of a plant-based diet, particularly for those with Ehlers-Danlos and Fibromyalgia, and discover how to find helpful resources and coaches. Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen 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. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Tim Kaufman, our guest on this episode, was battling with a weight of over 400 pounds and the agonizing grip of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. He succumbed to opioid, alcohol, and food addiction to cope. Tim's story is a testament to the power of unwavering determination and lifestyle changes, as he managed to shed over 200 pounds and is now essentially pain-free. His journey offers a beacon of hope for those wrestling with similar struggles.Growing up on a dairy farm and an avid hunter, a whole foods plant-based diet was not part of his upbringing. Like many, he was very active in his younger years. He discusses how pain medication became a double-edged sword, bringing temporary relief but also escalating his chronic pain. But this episode isn't just about the struggles but the fight. Hear how Tim, armed with a changed diet and small exercises, began to turn the tide against the disease.In the final stretch of our conversation, we confront the unforgiving realities of living with chronic pain and fibromyalgia. Tim's experience illustrates how a whole food, plant-based diet, and lifestyle changes can significantly manage these debilitating conditions. As your hosts, we invite you to join our community and stand together in the battle against chronic pain and fibromyalgia. After all, every new journey starts with a single step. Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen 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. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Remember Lynn Larson, our brave listener battling fibromyalgia? She's back with updates on new challenges and discoveries. An inspiring shift in her career sees her move from retail management to procurement and accounts payable, a role that lets her tap into her love for crafting policies and training others.Balancing a chronic condition like fibromyalgia and work is no easy feat, and Lynn's personal stories resonate with those who've felt the physical and mental strains of an office setting. She discusses the transition to a hybrid work arrangement, then striking out on her own to gain more flexibility and autonomy. Listen for valuable insights on maintaining work-life balance and the crucial connection between fibromyalgia and mental health. We'll also touch upon meditation and Tai Chi, practices that have offered solace to Lynn and others like her.Embrace yourself - that's the core lesson we glean as we explore self-acceptance and find personal best practices when managing fibromyalgia. The struggle of feeling inadequate when compared to others who appear more physically active, the importance of accepting your unique abilities and limitations, and even the overlap between fibromyalgia and possible neurodivergence - we discuss it all. Join us as we navigate the complexities of chronic pain syndromes and highlight the significance of self-awareness in charting a path to wellness. Prepare to be inspired and educated on this journey with Lynn. Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showWhen 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. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace personal medical advice.* ...