Podcasts about Rheumatoid arthritis

Dr. Casey Kelley got diagnosed with POTS in medical school after years of fatigue, dizziness, and a heart rate that wouldn't quit. She tried multiple medications — none of them fixed anything. It wasn't until she dug into functional medicine that she discovered her POTS was actually a symptom of adrenal burnout and chronic tick-borne infections. Once she addressed those, the POTS went away. In this conversation, we get into what POTS actually is, why infections and toxins are behind so much of the immune dysfunction we're seeing right now, and the stress you've probably become "nose blind" to. Casey also shares her go-to breathing technique (and why box breathing can backfire), the three foods she pulls first with almost every patient, and the foundational pillars that apply whether you have POTS, autoimmunity, or just want to feel better. If you've ever wondered whether your diagnosis is really the full picture — or you're stuck managing symptoms without understanding why they're there — this one's for you.

Dr. Cory Rice is a board-certified internal medicine physician who went from forensic science to running a functional medicine practice treating tens of thousands of patients in Dallas. In this conversation, we bust three autoimmune myths that keep people stuck — that autoimmune disease is rare, that there's one root cause to find, and that these conditions can't actually improve. We get into why 80% of autoimmune patients are women, what hormones have to do with immune function at every age, and why Dr. Rice went from gut-testing skeptic to making a functional stool analysis mandatory for every single new patient. His take: if the gut isn't sealed, it doesn't matter how clean you eat. If you've been told to just manage your symptoms and accept your diagnosis, this one's for you. We talk about what actually moves the needle — and why hope might be the most important deficiency to address first.

What should you do when your treatment isn't working—or you're actually getting worse?In this Rheumatology 101 episode, Dr. Isabelle Amigues shares an important lesson from her clinical practice: when a treatment isn't working the way it should, sometimes the answer isn't simply increasing the medication. It's time to pause and reconsider what is really going on.Steroids such as prednisone can work quickly for many inflammatory conditions. But when symptoms don't improve as expected, or worsen despite treatment, that can be an important signal to stop and reassess.Dr. Isabelle explains why rheumatologists may need to consider whether:• The original diagnosis is correct • Another rheumatologic condition could be causing the symptoms • More than one condition is present • An infection could be contributing to symptoms • Another medical specialty should be involved • Increasing immunosuppression could potentially cause harmShe also discusses a patient whose symptoms were initially thought to be rheumatoid arthritis but were ultimately found to be related to coccidioidomycosis, a fungal infection—highlighting why doctors need to remain open-minded when a patient's response doesn't match what is expected.Most importantly, Dr. Isabelle shares what patients can ask when their doctor says, "I'm not sure."You deserve an answer, or at least a clear next step.Don't continue down a path that isn't helping you. Pause. Ask questions. Reassess. And make sure you leave with a plan for what comes next.This video is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice.

Imagine waking up and not knowing if you're going to be able to walk. That was Cheyanne Martin's reality.Rheumatoid arthritis brought severe pain, swelling, and inflammation into her life—and at one point, she felt like a prisoner in her own body. But she decided she wasn't going to live that way.This is Cheyanne's story. Follow Cheyanne:Instagram: @CheyenneMartin1 TikTok: CheyenneMartin510Follow Karin:Facebook: https://facebook.com/karinnahmaniauthorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/karinnahmaniauthor/TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@karinnahmani?_t=8lE1nUh7KHv&_r=1

Functional wellness practitioner Hali Laricey reads standard lab work through a functional lens — and she's really good at finding answers in the labs your doctor stamped "normal." In this episode, we zero in on the CBC with differential, one of the cheapest and most common blood tests out there, and how its five markers can reveal chronic infections, immune stress, and early signs of autoimmune flares. Hali walks through each marker — neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils — with the functional ranges she uses and why they're tighter than what your lab report flags. She also explains why pulling three to five years of labs from your patient portal matters way more than any single draw, and shares a simple ratio you can track on your own to watch for flares. If you've ever left a doctor's appointment holding "normal" labs while still feeling terrible, this one's for you. You'll walk away knowing exactly what to request and what to look for.

In this episode of the Live Yes! With Arthritis podcast, we'll explore how to use the right food and your overall nutrition to maximize its benefits for your arthritis. *Visit the Live Yes! With Arthritis Podcast episode page to get show notes, additional resources and read the full transcript: https://www.arthritis.org/liveyes/podcast/episodes/eating-smart-for-arthritis-159 * We want to hear from you. Tell us what you think about the Live Yes! With Arthritis Podcast. Get started by emailing podcast@arthritis.org.Special Guests: Bailey (Bowman) Cook, Dr. Chris D'Adamo, and Ruth Frechman, MA, RDN, CPT.

Life is longer for “those who think young”; Watching too much TV may shrink your brain (literally!); Diet and supplements may help lupus; When a high-fiber diet before surgery may be inadvisable; Your mouth may be the gateway to your overall health and longevity.

Tiffany Kaloustian was told lupus was basically the end of the life she expected. In her twenties that landed like a life sentence — heavy meds, little education, and a lot of grief. We talk about what changed when she stopped wearing the diagnosis as her identity and started treating healing like a dance: hard days included, mindset and nervous system first, and food and root-cause care that actually moved her markers. If you have been living under a diagnosis like it already decided your future, this episode is for you. Come for the honesty. Stay for the reminder that a label does not get the final word.

Drawing from their own lived experiences, they discuss everything from when to disclose a diagnosis while dating to navigating rejection, communicating with partners, managing physical intimacy, and recognizing relationship red flags. They also share practical advice for building healthy partnerships rooted in honesty, empathy, and mutual support. Along the way, Cheryl and Eileen examine what research tells us about chronic illness, loneliness, and relationship outcomes, while challenging the myth that arthritis inevitably harms romantic relationships. Instead, they argue that although chronic illness can create real challenges, it can also deepen connection, vulnerability, and resilience with the right partner. Above all, they emphasize that the strongest foundation for any relationship is cultivating self-compassion, self-worth, and a healthy relationship with yourself first. Episode at a glance: 00:00 Welcome and Premise 00:33 Why This Topic Matters 01:02 Eileen and Cheryl Backgrounds 03:05 When to Disclose Illness 06:26 Cheryl Dating Lessons 10:36 Myth vs Fact Impact 12:56 Self Love and Breaks 18:34 Sex and Intimacy Tips 27:28 Relationship Styles That Work 30:30 Loneliness and Health Research 34:19 Key Takeaways and Wrap Up Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I'm talking with Dr. Anik St. Martin, a chiropractor and author of Skin on Fire: Healing Psoriasis Naturally, who spent over 12 years battling psoriasis before discovering the one piece she'd been missing — her mindset. After years of dialing in her nutrition, supplements, and gut healing, Anik's skin finally cleared completely after a self-directed 5-day intensive where she did nothing but walk, observe her thoughts, and flip every self-deprecating thought to its opposite. We get into the science behind why this works — from a 1940s Harvard placebo study to real-time synaptic rewiring — and why the fact that your skin turns over every 21 days is actually great news. We also cover: • The environmental triggers that worsened her psoriasis (vaccines in one sitting, formaldehyde, tattoo ink) • Why obsessing over a "perfect" healing protocol can be just as harmful as the condition itself • Her go-to supplements and GI repair formula for managing flares • The one morning practice she recommends everyone start today If you've tried everything and still aren't where you want to be, this episode is worth your time. For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/254

Show Notes HOST Melody Hartzler | | Book Appointment AROUND THE TABLE Dr. Amber Fish Book Appointment In Today's Episode In this episode of Table Talk, Melody Hartzler sits down with Pharm to Table pharmacist Amber Fish to discuss her personal journey with rheumatoid arthritis and how functional medicine transformed her health. Amber shares how addressing gut health, nutrition, lifestyle, and root causes helped her reduce inflammation, regain her quality of life, and move beyond simply managing symptoms with medication. Together, they discuss practical strategies for supporting autoimmune conditions and the importance of making sustainable lifestyle changes. Key Take Aways Functional medicine focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of autoimmune disease rather than simply managing symptoms. Healing the gut can significantly reduce inflammation and improve symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. Supplements can be valuable tools during healing, but they work best when paired with strong lifestyle foundations like nutrition, sleep, movement, and stress management. Lasting health improvements come from consistent daily habits, not quick fixes or short-term programs. Healing is a journey and sustainable progress happens by making small, manageable changes over time. Topics Discussed 00:00 – Welcome to Table Talk Introduction to today's conversation on rheumatoid arthritis and functional medicine. 00:32 – Amber Fish's Health Journey Amber shares her background as a pharmacist and her diagnosis with rheumatoid arthritis. 02:24 – Conventional Treatment & Medication Challenges Navigating medications, side effects, and searching for better answers. 06:31 – Discovering Functional Medicine How a new approach gave Amber hope beyond symptom management. 09:07 – Functional Testing & Finding Root Causes Exploring gut health, SIBO, micronutrient deficiencies, and mold exposure. 10:33 – Navigating Supplements How to approach supplements without becoming overwhelmed. 14:27 – Healing the Gut & Reducing Inflammation The improvements Amber experienced after addressing gut health. 16:30 – Building Healthy Daily Habits Why nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, and relationships all matter. 19:51 – Healing Is an Ongoing Process Maintaining progress and adapting to life's challenges. 21:47 – How Long Does Healing Take? Setting realistic expectations for autoimmune recovery. 23:26 – Mold Exposure & Environmental Factors Understanding how environmental stressors contribute to chronic illness. 24:49 – Final Thoughts & Where to Connect with Amber Resources Mentioned The PharmToTable Team – Functional Medicine Providers Dr. Amber Fish – PharmD, BCPS, IFMCP Functional Testing & Tools Stool Testing SIBO Breath Testing Micronutrient Testing Health Topics Rheumatoid Arthritis Functional Medicine Gut Health Autoimmune Disease Chronic Inflammation

Could stimulating a nerve reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis?In this video, rheumatologist Dr. Isabelle Amigues explains the science behind the newly FDA-approved vagus nerve stimulation device for rheumatoid arthritis and why this breakthrough could change the future of autoimmune treatment.Learn how the vagus nerve communicates with the immune system, why researchers have been studying the inflammatory reflex for decades, and how targeted nerve stimulation may reduce inflammation without directly suppressing the immune system.In this video:✔️ What vagus nerve stimulation is✔️ How the inflammatory reflex works✔️ Why the FDA approved this new rheumatoid arthritis treatment✔️ Who may benefit from this therapy✔️ How vagus nerve stimulation compares to biologics and DMARDs✔️ Meditation, humming, cold exposure, and other natural ways to stimulate the vagus nerve✔️ The future of bioelectronic medicine for autoimmune diseasesIf you have rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or are interested in the latest advances in autoimmune care, this video breaks down the science in a practical, patient-friendly way.Subscribe for weekly videos on rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, autoimmune disease, inflammation, longevity, and evidence-based rheumatology.

If you've been eating well, doing all the right things, and still not feeling better — this one's for you. I sat down with Stephanie Nelson, a trauma-informed somatic coach and founder of The Stress Healers, to talk about something most health conversations completely miss: what happens in the body when stress and trauma don't get processed. Stephanie was diagnosed with arthritis, bursitis, and tendinitis in both hips at age 12. She spent years trying to heal through diet, yoga, and supplements — and while those helped, it wasn't until she discovered nervous system and somatic work that things actually shifted. In this conversation, we get into: • Why your nervous system — not your diet — is the master coordinator of your health • What fascia actually is and why it's your body's richest sensory organ • How perfectionism, procrastination, and anxiety are all adaptive survival strategies (not character flaws) • The three body languages we're born with — and how Western culture teaches us to ignore two of them • Why the goal of somatic work isn't to be calm — it's to have *choice* • A simple 10-second practice you can do today to signal safety to your nervous system Stephanie also shares how her forever-free "Resourced" membership is a great starting point if you want to actually try this work. Find her at thestresshealers.com or @thestresshealers on Instagram. For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/253

In this updated introduction, I share how my response to this question has changed, the importance of exploring internalized ableism, and why I think a better question is: Can I build a joyful, meaningful life with rheumatoid arthritis along for the ride? After these reflections, you'll hear the original 2021 episode and see what has changed, and what has stayed the same in my thinking over the years. This is very much informed by the rich discussions I've had with people in the Rheum to THRIVE communities and the Arthritis Life community at large, whether on social media, email or in person. I would love to hear your thoughts on this question after listening to the episode!  Episode at a Glance 2026 updated thoughts: 00:00 Why Revisit Normal 02:16 Redefining Normal Life 06:05 Ableism And New Goals 08:50 Acceptance Not Giving Up 17:24 Thriving Without Remission 19:28 Toolboxes Fixing And Adapting 22:22 Community And Imperfection 2021 original audio:  26:08 Origins Of The Question 29:43 “Normal Compared To What?” 33:25 Uncertainty And Remission Paths 34:44 Truth Bombs And New Normal 41:43 Pain Versus Suffering 44:34 ACT In Practice 50:43 Rheum To THRIVE Framework 53:22 Final Takeaways Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Case A 22-year-old female with no significant past medical history presents to an urgent care center reporting 3.5 months of worsening joint pain and swelling. She states that both her hands, her right knee, and her left ankle have been bothering her and are swollen at times. Today's Reader Aryana Nazem is a 4th year medical student at the State University of New York Upstate Medical University. About Dr. Raj Dr Raj is a quadruple board certified physician and associate professor at the University of Southern California. He was a co-host on the TNT series Chasing the Cure with Ann Curry, a regular on the TV Show The Doctors for the past 7 seasons and has a weekly medical segment on ABC news Los Angeles. More from Dr. Raj ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Dr. Raj Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dr. Raj on Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dr. Raj on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want more board review content? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠USMLE Step 1 Ad-Free Bundle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Crush Step 1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Step 2 Secrets⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beyond the Pearls⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Dr. Raj Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Beyond the Pearls Premium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠USMLE Step 3 Review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MedPrepTGo Step 1 Questions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MedPrepTGo Step 2 Questions⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. David Chernoff, Chief Medical Officer of Setpoint Medical.

Dr. David Chernoff, Chief Medical Officer of Setpoint Medical, discusses electrically driven vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as a “neuroimmune modulation” approach to autoimmune and inflammatory disease. Chernoff explains the vagus nerve's sensory role in monitoring organs and signaling the brainstem and spleen to regulate immune responses, and how precise stimulation can reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines without immunosuppression. Setpoint's miniaturized, wireless, MRI-compatible implant is placed in an outpatient 45-minute neck procedure and delivers one minute of daily stimulation titrated to an upper comfort level; long-term safety is supported by prior surgical experience and a 242-patient blinded RA study with two-year data, leading to FDA approval for rheumatoid arthritis. The discussion covers add-on use with medications, potential steroid tapering, reimbursement, and research in Crohn's disease, relapsing MS (vision and remyelination), and other conditions, including psoriatic arthritis, lupus, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Receiving an autoimmune diagnosis can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to define your future.In this heartfelt message, rheumatologist Dr. Isabelle Amigues shares why she believes hope is an essential part of medical care. She explains how modern rheumatology has transformed, why remission is the goal, and why patients should never settle for simply "getting by."In this video, you'll learn:✔️ Why remission, not just symptom control, is the goal✔️ Why there are more treatment options than ever before✔️ What to do if your current medication isn't working✔️ Why hope is grounded in science, not wishful thinking✔️ The importance of advocating for yourself and communicating with your rheumatologist✔️ How visualization and mindset can support your healing journey alongside evidence-based medicineWhether you're living with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, or another autoimmune disease, this conversation is a reminder that today's treatments offer possibilities that didn't exist years ago.Your diagnosis is part of your story, but it doesn't have to be the ending.

If you've been told your labs are fine but you still feel terrible, this episode is for you. Dr. Pamela Cipriano is an ILADS-trained nurse practitioner who spent ten years watching her own son deteriorate from undiagnosed Lyme disease — dismissed by doctor after doctor — before she finally figured out what was wrong and healed him herself. In this conversation, she breaks down why standard Lyme tests are practically designed to produce false negatives, what the HNK-1 natural killer cell count reveals that most labs miss, and how a co-infection called Bartonella is quietly being misdiagnosed as ALS. She also gets into the Lyme biofilm problem — why even IV antibiotics can't touch it — and the stevia + serrapeptase protocol that finally broke through for her son. Plus, her emerging research on ivermectin for Bartonella, and what she's seeing with seizures triggered by Herxheimer reactions. If you or someone you love has unresolved neurological symptoms, autoimmune markers that don't quite add up, or a history of tick exposure, this is a conversation worth your full attention. Find Dr. Cipriano at thepracticeofhealthandwellness.comFor the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/252

I sat down with Natalie Novak, co-founder of Kindness Powered Skincare and certified oncology esthetician, who spent years battling debilitating symptoms — constant anxiety, RA-like joint pain, vision problems — while doctors told her nothing was wrong. The culprit turned out to be her breast implants, which were full of mold. After having them removed in 2018, her RA symptoms vanished almost immediately. Her eyesight returned the next day. But Natalie's story doesn't stop there. Long before her own health crisis, she'd already been on a mission to clean up the beauty industry — sparked by watching a skincare product literally eat through carpet and padding at a Nordstrom stockroom. In this episode, we talk about why what you put ON your body matters just as much as what you put IN it, how the FDA hasn't updated the Cosmetics Act since 1938, and why "it's sold in a store" doesn't mean it's safe. Natalie also walks us through a simple 3-step skincare ritual — cleansing oil, probiotic toner, and the right face cream — designed specifically to support women dealing with autoimmunity, hormonal shifts, and sensitive, compromised skin. Find Natalie and her products at kpsessentials.com For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/251

Dr. Hazelwood emphasizes the importance of balancing risks and benefits and provides insights into how modern treatments can significantly improve quality of life. The episode emphasizes the safety and necessity of these medications and highlights the benefits of starting treatment early to prevent long-term complications.  This episode is particularly valuable for anyone newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis who is navigating the complexities and concerns surrounding medication. Episode at a glance: Meet Rheumatologist & Researcher Dr. Glenn Hazelwood: Busting Myths About Medications Challenging Stigmas Around Advanced Treatments Addressing Misconceptions About Medication Use Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels (including Rheumer Has It) was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl Crow, OT created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today's Episode Rick discusses his journey with RA diagnosis and management, highlighting his experience as a patient advocate. Rick explains how he learned to distinguish RA flares from normal aches and pains by noting that RA symptoms persist continuously while normal pain resolves within 3 days. Rick emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy, developing a collaborative relationship with healthcare providers, and being willing to seek second opinions when needed. He also shared practical advice about adapting exercise routines and maintaining an active lifestyle while managing symptoms. About Dr. Koolaee Dr. Michelle Koolaee did her training for internal medicine residency at St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital and went on to do her fellowship at University of Pennsylvania for rheumatology, where she was named Fellow of the Year. She then became an assistant professor at the University of Southern California before working at organizations such as Healthcare Partners and Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital. She currently practices at Huntington Health, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai, and is now starting her own direct care practice. Links for Dr. Koolaee ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.drrmichellekoolaee.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Rheuminations, host Adam J. Brown, MD, will walk you through the history of pleural effusions in rheumatoid arthritis. He discusses topics ranging from fascinating case studies to how pleural effusions are treated today.  ·        Diving into pleural effusions. 2:38 ·        What's in the fluid? 12:01 ·        When did pleural effusions become linked to RA? 15:18 ·        The glucose talk. 27:04 ·        Green effusions. 32:40 We'd love to hear from you! Send your comments/questions to Dr. Brown at rheuminationspodcast@healio.com. Follow us on Twitter @HRheuminations @AdamJBrownMD @HealioRheum.

I was diagnosed with IBS about 10 years before I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis — and I had no idea the two were connected. That's exactly why I wanted to have this conversation with Izabella Wentz, pharmacist and founder of Thyroid Pharmacist.Izabella was told her IBS was just stress during pharmacy school. She ignored it — until Hashimoto's showed up years later and forced her to dig deeper. What she found became the foundation of her work, and now her newest book: IBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. We talk about why IBS so often shows up years before an autoimmune diagnosis, the gut testing that actually finds answers (and why a colonoscopy alone won't cut it), which foods and additives are quietly making things worse, why SIBO keeps coming back if you're not addressing the real drivers, and how her husband went from a brand-new UC diagnosis to full remission in under eight weeks. If you've been told your gut issues are just stress, or you're managing an autoimmune condition and still struggling — this one is worth your time. For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/250

Interview with Christian Geier, MD

My guest Nicole Bell is the CEO of Galaxy Diagnostics and author of What Lurks in the Woods. She came to this work after her husband's Lyme disease — along with co-infections Bartonella and Babesia — was misdiagnosed as early-onset Alzheimer's. He passed away in 2022. In this episode, we talk about why the standard Lyme test misses so many people (hint: it's 30-year-old technology that relies on antibody detection from a pathogen that actively suppresses your immune system), what co-infections like Bartonella and Babesia actually do to the brain and body, and how Galaxy Diagnostics is using urine-based antigen testing and digital PCR to find what older tests can't. We also get into the myths that keep people from getting the right diagnosis — including why only 14% of Lyme patients get the classic bullseye rash, why Lyme is present in all 50 states, and why finishing a round of doxycycline doesn't mean you're in the clear. If you or someone you love is dealing with unexplained mood changes, cognitive decline, chronic fatigue, anxiety, or joint pain — this conversation is worth your full attention. For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/249

Send us Fan MailRheumatoid arthritis is often thought of as a condition that only affects the joints, but emerging research suggests the story begins much earlier and extends far beyond them.In this episode of The Autoimmune RESET, registered nutritionist VJ Hamilton explores the latest evidence surrounding rheumatoid arthritis, including the fascinating links between the gut microbiome, intestinal barrier, oral health and immune regulation. You'll learn why researchers now believe that immune dysfunction may begin at mucosal surfaces such as the gut and mouth years before joint symptoms develop, and how factors including microbial diversity, nutrition, sleep and stress can influence immune resilience.VJ explains the science in an accessible and practical way, covering the role of key bacteria such as Prevotella copri and Akkermansia muciniphila, why butyrate-producing bacteria are so important, and how oral bacteria may contribute to immune activation. She also discusses the gut-joint axis, why stool testing has become such a valuable tool in personalised nutrition, and the simple lifestyle changes that can support your immune system alongside conventional medical care.Whether you've recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, are supporting someone who has, or simply want to better understand autoimmune disease, this episode offers practical, evidence-based insights to help you look beyond symptom management and towards supporting the root causes of immune dysfunction.The Root Reset® IntensiveA private, in-person experience designed to help you connect the dots, identify potential root causes, and create a personalised six-month strategy for improving your health.The first Root Reset® Intensives will be taking place on Harley Street in London this summer.You can apply here. 

After 50 years of unhealthy patterns, can someone truly begin again—and heal?In this inspiring episode of Metabolic Matters, host Christina Mason sits down with Linda Riccio, OT/L, FAOTA, and Dr. Yvonne Teverbaugh, DSc., ND, PhD, MSHN, for a powerful, hope-filled conversation about resilience, intuition, and whole-person healing that goes beyond symptoms and diagnoses.Linda shares her extraordinary journey—from weighing over 350 pounds and becoming bedridden at age 50 due to an undiagnosed chronic illness to emerging as a healthcare innovator, certified grief counselor, and advocate for lifestyle-based healing. After years of unexplained symptoms, she was diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, severe hormonal dysfunction, a brain meningioma and genetic coagulation problems. Determined to understand her body, Linda began working with Dr. Yvonne, opening the door to profound healing and self-discovery.Together, they explore the complexities of chronic illness, the necessity of individualized care, and the patience and self-compassion required for true transformation and lasting healing. Linda reflects on her evolution from being disconnected from her body to hearing its wisdom loud and clear—and now helping others build that same awareness, resilience, and self-trust.At the heart of this episode is the enduring partnership and friendship between Linda and Dr. Yvonne. Over more than a decade, they have navigated physical illness, emotional healing, grief, nutrition, and the deep connection between mind, body, and spirit. This conversation is a powerful reminder that healing is not instant—it unfolds over time through small, intentional steps. As Linda puts it, “When progress is personal, it is unstoppable.”Connect with our Guests:Linda Riccio, OT/L, FAOTA thenaturalpathtowellness.net Yvonne Teverbaugh, DSc., ND, PhD, MSHN thenaturalpathtowellness.net About Your Host: Christina Mason is a lifelong storyteller, educator, and truth-seeker whose journey—from music and teaching to entrepreneurship—has always been guided by curiosity. Following her own breast cancer diagnosis, she turned her focus toward metabolic health and healing. As host of Metabolic Matters, she creates space for real people to share real stories and the many paths that shape how we understand health.Follow the Show: Website: www.metabolicmatters.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/metabolicmatters_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577488944537 Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@metabolicmatters LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/metabolic-matters Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MetabolicRegen © 2026 Metabolic Regen. All rights reserved. Produced by Metabolic Regen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jenn has lived with Rheumatoid Arthritis since she was six years old. While she was an active and athletic child, as an adult, her arthritis has become more limiting. It's been a challenging process for her to redefine her sense of self and to accept these limitations, while still trying to move forward and to work around them. Despite her disability, she has been able to remain active. For most of her professional life, Jenn has been an English teacher and school leader, and has loved the time that she spent with the teenagers that she taught, many of whom she still has in her life. For the past seven years, she has worked as a DEI and disability advocate. In her work as a disability advocate and educator, she brings disability awareness into all of the work that she does. Too often, serving people with disabilities is not part of the national conversation. She helps the people with whom she works to consider how we can create a world that is more inclusive of all people, including people with disabilities. Jenn works to educate people about the strengths and gifts that people with disabilities have. Everyone has something that limits them, and success asks that we simply move forward even with the limitations that we have. That said, we need allies, systems, and structures that ensure our inclusion and success. Jenn has also earned certification as a listener poet and is invested in working with organizations to use the listener poet process as part of a support system for those in careers with a high emotional demand. Jenn loves writing, and collaborated with her husband, Kevin, on a poetry collection last year. She has also completed a book that profiles people with disabilities. See Us, Know Us; Profiles of Disability tells the stories of 30 diverse individuals with disabilities. Each profile consists of a portrait, a narrative biography, an original poem and a poem origin story that gives context to the poem. The book will be available in October   https://jenniferchassmanbrowne.com/  

If you've heard of the Autoimmune Protocol but felt like it was too restrictive to even try — or you've done it and wondered if you were doing it right — this episode is worth your time. I sat down with Mickey Trescott, one of the key people behind AIP, to talk about her new book The New AIP. We get into the actual clinical research (IBD, Hashimoto's, and RA studies), what the results really showed, and the newly formalized Modified AIP pathway that makes the protocol far more accessible than most people realize. We also bust the biggest myth about AIP — that it's just a restrictive diet — and talk about what the protocol actually involves beyond food, how long you should stay in elimination, when to troubleshoot if it's not working, and what the long game looks like when you're living with a chronic condition. Mickey also shares her own recent health setback — a new psoriatic arthritis diagnosis 15 years into her journey — and what she actually did about it. Practical, research-backed, and refreshingly honest. For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/248

Joint pain shows up for at least three completely different reasons, and the right response in each case looks completely different. Inside today's episode, I break down the three drivers of joint pain that show up the most in coaching practice and primary care offices, why treating all three the same way gets you right about a third of the time, and how to actually sort out which one you or your client is dealing with. For coaches and active individuals alike, this is the framework to run before reaching for an intervention. Topics Discussed - Three Drivers of Joint Pain- Overuse and Programming Variables- Volume, Failure Work, and Recovery- Hydrolyzed Collagen and Vitamin C- Osteoarthritis and the Imaging Picture- Two Profiles Most People Miss- Resistance Training and Joint Health- Rheumatoid Arthritis and Gut Origins - The Fasting Trial Data- Individual Triggers vs Generic Protocols---------- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠My Live Program for Coaches: The Functional Nutrition and Metabolism Specialization ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.metabolismschool.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠---------- [Free] Metabolism School 101: The Video Series⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.metabolismschool.com/metabolism-101⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠----------Subscribe to My Youtube Channel: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://youtube.com/@sammillerscience?si=s1jcR6Im4GDHbw_1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠----------⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grab a Copy of My New Book - Metabolism Made Simple⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠---------- Stay Connected: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: @sammillerscience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube: SamMillerScience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook: The Nutrition Coaching Collaborative Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: @sammillerscience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠----------“This Podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast and the show notes or the reliance on the information provided is to be done at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is for educational purposes only. Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program and users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. By accessing this Podcast, the listener acknowledges that the entire contents and design of this Podcast, are the property of Oracle Athletic Science LLC, or used by Oracle Athletic Science LLC with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of Oracle Athletic Science LLC, which may be requested by contacting the Oracle Athletic Science LLC by email at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠operations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@sammillerscience.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. By accessing this Podcast, the listener acknowledges that Oracle Athletic Science LLC makes no warranty, guarantee, or representation as to the accuracy or sufficiency of the information featured in this Podcast."

If you've been doing everything right and still feel exhausted, anxious, and like your body just won't cooperate — this episode is for you. I sat down with Dr. Scott Sherr, a board-certified internal medicine physician and COO of Troscriptions, to talk about the sympathetic spiral: a chronic fight-or-flight loop most people don't even know they're in. And here's what surprised me most — you don't have to feel stressed to be stuck in it. We get into why your cellular energy and your anxiety are locked in a loop, what mitochondrial dysfunction actually means for your daily life, and how a specific sequence of support can help you finally start feeling better. We also go deep on methylene blue — the history, how it works, the right dosing range, and the sourcing and safety details that most people skip (including who should absolutely not use it). Plus: why GABA deficiency is so common, how to calm your nervous system without sedating yourself, and why sleep is a full-day practice — not just a bedtime routine. For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/247

They also explore exciting new therapies like CAR T-cell treatment, along with practical advice on self-advocacy, building the right healthcare team, and what it truly means to thrive while living with a rheumatic disease. Episode at a glance: Why Dr. Singh became a rheumatologist after watching her grandmother struggle with osteoarthritis What current research shows about biologics and cancer risk Why most cancer fears surrounding arthritis medications are often more complicated than they seem How cancer immunotherapy can sometimes trigger inflammatory arthritis The importance of communication between rheumatologists, oncologists, and other specialists What patients should know about skin cancer, lymphoma, and other cancer risks The emerging role of CAR-T cell therapy in autoimmune diseases Why researchers are increasingly optimistic about long-term remission and potential cures Advice for newly diagnosed patients navigating inflammatory arthritis What it means to truly "thrive" while living with rheumatic disease Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Could your home be the reason you're not getting better?I sat down with Paul Kealey, founder of EcoBuilt, to talk about something most of us never think to question — the air inside our homes. Paul has spent nearly 25 years in construction, and what he shares might change how you see your living space entirely. We get into why new homes aren't automatically healthier (studies suggest over 25% have hidden mold inside the walls), how bedroom CO2 levels can hit 5x what's outside — quietly wrecking your sleep and your body's ability to detox overnight — and why "energy efficient" and "healthy" are not the same thing. Paul also walks through three tests any homeowner can run right now to find out if their home is working against them: a mold dust swab test, a CO2 and humidity monitor, and an energy audit. If you're dealing with an autoimmune condition, chronic fatigue, or symptoms that never quite have an explanation, this one is for you. For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/246

If you have autoimmune disease, you've probably been told to keep an eye on your bone density number. But here's the thing — that number only predicts fractures in about 44% of women with osteoporosis. Most of what's actually driving your fracture risk isn't showing up on that scan. I brought Dr. John Neustadt back to talk about his newly expanded book, Fracture-Proof Your Bones, and this conversation goes well beyond what we covered last time. We get into how gut inflammation — the kind that comes with autoimmunity, leaky gut, Crohn's, or celiac — directly triggers bone loss through inflammatory cytokines that activate the cells that break down bone. We also talk about the medications most doctors aren't warning you about (SSRIs, prednisone, PPIs) and how they're silently destroying bone tissue. Plus: what your diet is actually doing to your skeleton, a simple 10-second balance test that predicts fracture risk better than a bone scan, the surprising link between oxytocin and your osteoblasts, and which routine labs to ask for that most people never get. People with autoimmune disease face a 200–400% increased fracture risk. That's the reality — but there's a lot you can do about it. Find Dr. John Neustadt at nbihealth.com For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/245

Broadcast from KSQD, Santa Cruz on 5-21-2026: This is the second show featuring Mira Achilles, a UCSC graduate working on her masters in epidemiology. Dr. Dawn and Mira open with a Harvard study showing OpenAI's o1 reasoning model reached correct diagnoses 67% of the time versus 50-55% for physicians, and scored 89% versus 34% on treatment plans. The AI advantage shrinks when doctors get more data and time, suggesting its greatest value is in fast-moving triage. Dr. Dawn cautions that over-reliance on AI during residency could undermine the clinical reasoning neurologic pathways doctors must develop, and emphasizes the "zebra paradox"— rare diseases remain rare even when symptoms match the textbook. Dr. Dawn shares a personal case of a patient with throat shingles, leading her to use a medical AI (OpenEvidence) to investigate Shingrix risks. An Australian study found an elevenfold increase in shingles within 21 days of the first Shingrix dose in adults over 65, though dose two reduced overall risk by 73%. She explains this could be one of several things such as immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), or that the AS01B vaccine adjuvant's strong activation may transiently reactivate latent virus, and recommends valacyclovir prophylaxis for high-risk patients for their first Shringrex shot.. Mira discusses AI in education, noting the shift from professors threatening plagiarism charges to teaching students how to critique AI output, emphasizing taking summaries "with a grain of salt." Dr. Dawn describes Chinese research scanning 1,154 children that identified a third ADHD subtype—severe emotional dysregulation—showing 45 abnormal brain regions versus 26 in the inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types, with standard stimulants working poorly for this group. She connects this to traditional psychiatric personality disorder classifications and A discussion of vagus nerve stimulation's emerging applications for autoimmune conditions. Dr. Dawn and Mira discuss menstruation and bodily autonomy, then describe the Somedays period pain simulator that uses electrical impulses to let men experience menstrual cramps, highlighting differing pain thresholds. An emailer references a Radiolab episode about deliberate hookworm infection to treat asthma and allergies. Dr. Dawn explains parasites release immunosuppressants to survive, including anti-inflammatory protein-2 (AIP) now in drug development, which stimulates T-regulatory cells and IL-10 while "alarmins" inhibit lung inflammation—though this increases vulnerability to new infections. A caller with H. pylori and frequent viral infections asks whether S. boulardii and reuteri probiotics are safe given her low immunity. Dr. Dawn explains immunosuppression warnings target transplant-level drug suppression, not a tendency toward viruses like hers. Dr. Dawn thinks that her near-zero natural killer cells explain frequent infections, and suggests that the H. pylori test given her absence of symptoms, may be an incidental bystander rather than the cause of her low ferritin, which suggests bleeding. In medical news of the weird, Dr. Dawn describes Baby Cassian, diagnosed in utero with congenital high airway obstruction syndrome (CHAOS), who was partially removed from the womb at 25 weeks for airway surgery, returned, and born again at 31 weeks—leading to a discussion of microsurgery and how specialties partition by the physical scale of the surgery rather the location or type of structure.

What's changing in rheumatoid arthritis treatment in 2026? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Isabelle Amigues and Dr. Diana Girnita discuss the latest breakthroughs in rheumatoid arthritis care, including precision medicine, biologics, remission strategies, tapering medications, vagus nerve stimulation, stress reduction, and the future of autoimmune healing. They explore how rheumatology is evolving from simply managing symptoms to helping patients achieve full remission and improve overall quality of life. From methotrexate and biologics to meditation, breathwork, and nervous system regulation, this discussion highlights a more personalized approach to autoimmune disease treatment.If you're living with rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune disease, chronic inflammation, or searching for new hope beyond traditional treatment models, this episode is for you.Topics discussed:• Rheumatoid arthritis treatment updates• Biologics vs JAK inhibitors• Precision medicine in rheumatology• Can patients taper off medication?• Vagus nerve stimulation for inflammation• Stress, nervous system & autoimmune disease• Direct care rheumatology• Full remission in RA• Lifestyle medicine & autoimmune healing• Future of rheumatology care

I sat down with Karen "ZuZu" Ziemer Armes — holistic health educator, author, and founder of Lilly Fields Retreat Center — who reversed her own epilepsy in her early 20s using food alone. In this conversation, we get into the four electrical systems your body runs on (and why most people have never heard of them), how mineral deficiencies silently drive chronic illness, why EMF exposure is one of the most overlooked culprits behind chronic symptoms, and what you can actually do about all of it — starting today. ZuZu has been teaching this stuff for over 30 years. She's practical, direct, and brings receipts — including live blood cell analysis that shows mold, parasites, and gut toxins circulating in real patients' blood. If you've been to doctor after doctor and still don't have answers, this one's for you. For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/244

Can someone with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (high CCP, inflammatory synovitis, severe flare) go into full remission without long-term medication?In this powerful interview, Dr. Isabelle Amigues speaks with Brandon, a patient diagnosed with textbook rheumatoid arthritis who experienced:• Severe joint inflammation• High anti-CCP antibodies• Debilitating flares• Prednisone and methotrexate treatment• Biologic therapy (Kevzara)After a profound turning point, Brandon explored:• Vagus nerve stimulation• Stress reduction & nervous system regulation• Meditation & humming techniques• Anti-inflammatory nutrition• Exercise & muscle rebuilding• Body awareness & alignmentToday, he has been in full remission for over 6 months without medication.This episode explores:• The role of stress in autoimmune disease• Vagus nerve stimulation and inflammation• Can RA remission happen naturally?• The bridge between Western medicine and nervous system healing• Why remission is the goal — no matter the pathThis is not medical advice. This is a story of possibility, partnership, and personalized care.If you'd like access to our vagus nerve stimulation webinar, comment below.

I sat down with Dr. Alice Honican — naturopath, acupuncturist, and bioenergetic practitioner at Longevity Health Center in Roswell, Georgia — to talk about a diagnostic approach that's been quietly getting results for decades but most people have never come across. Dr. Honican grew up in a naturopathic household, has been working with chronic and autoimmune patients since 2003, and uses three specific tools in her clinic: bio-energetic testing (the Quest 4), computer regulation thermography, and a bioterrain urinalysis. Together, they help identify — and prioritize — what's actually driving someone's condition, whether that's Lyme, mold, Epstein-Barr, leaky gut, or something else entirely. We also get into why patients who do "everything right" with their diet can still end up reacting to healthy foods, how to use binders and herbs without overwhelming your system, and what post-COVID is actually looking like in practice right now. If you've been through rounds of testing without clear answers, this one is worth a listen. For the complete show notes, links and transcripts, visit inspiredliving.show/243

Cheryl and Mariah discuss everything from medication decisions during pregnancy to adapting family life, traveling with chronic illness, managing expectations, and finding “micro moments” of joy along the way.  If you've ever worried that chronic illness might prevent you from building the life or family you want, this episode offers compassionate, practical encouragement that you do not have to give up on your goals, even if you have to adapt the path forward.  Episode at a glance: 00:00 Welcome Mariah Leach 02:18 Mariah's Diagnosis Story Recap 04:00 Why She Started the Mamas Facing Forward Group 13:41 Hive Mind Parenting Tips 17:51 Writing The Pregnancy Book 20:46 Medication Risk Tradeoffs 24:51 Pregnancy Remission Options 27:24 Book Research and Purpose 28:17 Parenting With Arthritis 31:43 Adapting Dreams and Grief 37:17 Tools and Book Picks Medical disclaimer:  All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Episode Sponsors Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected.  See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Joints play a critical role in how we move, stay active, and maintain independence—but joint pain and arthritis can make everyday activities challenging. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Nana Sarpong, an orthopedic surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, about how joints function and what happens when cartilage wears down. Dr. Sarpong explains the difference between mechanical osteoarthritis and inflammatory forms of arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis, including how each impacts joint movement, pain, and stiffness. The conversation covers conservative treatment strategies such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, bracing, and injections—along with when surgery becomes the right option. Dr. Sarpong also explains how modern joint replacement surgery works, how long implants now last, and what recovery looks like. Dr. Sarpong debunks common myths, including whether cracking your knuckles is harmful, if weather really affects joint pain, and the idea that people with arthritis should avoid movement. His key message: motion really is lotion—and staying active is essential for protecting your joints and preserving long-term mobility.   Chapters 00:00 – What Are Joints and How Do They Work? An overview of joint anatomy, function, and why joints are essential to movement 04:30 – Arthritis and Joint Conditions The difference between osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis, causes of joint pain and stiffness 08:45 – Treating Joint Pain and Arthritis Conservative care, physical therapy, injections, and when surgery becomes the right option 12:00 – Protecting Your Joints and Busting Myths Exercise, weight management, common misconceptions, and the importance of staying active   Key Topics Covered How joints function in the body Osteoarthritis vs. rheumatoid and inflammatory arthritis Causes of joint pain, stiffness, and cartilage loss Physical therapy and non-surgical treatments Joint replacement surgery and recovery Exercise recommendations for joint health Weight loss and joint load reduction Myths about cracking joints and weather-related pain Takeaway Message Joint pain doesn't mean you should stop moving. Staying active, strengthening the muscles around your joints, and managing weight can help protect joint function and slow arthritis progression. When conservative treatments stop working, modern joint replacement surgery offers safe, durable solutions that can restore mobility and independence for decades.   Doctor Bio Nana Sarpong, MD, MBA, is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee reconstruction. He is skilled in minimally invasive techniques, including partial knee reconstruction, primary hip replacement (both direct anterior and mini-posterior hip approaches), knee replacement, hip resurfacing, and complex primary and revision hip and knee replacement after failed surgeries. His practice leverages advanced technologies, including computer-assisted navigation and robotics, and offers the latest evidence-based surgical and nonsurgical treatment options. Based on a rigorous process to identify healthcare providers with a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement, Super Doctors named Dr. Sarpong one of New York's Rising Stars. Dr. Sarpong was raised in New York City and attended Brandeis University, in Massachusetts, on the Posse Foundation Leadership and Merit scholarship, graduating magna cum laude. He received his MD/MBA degree from Tufts University School of Medicine, where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society and received the Norman S. Stearns MD/MBA Excellence in Leadership Award. Dr. Sarpong completed his orthopedic surgery residency at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where he was elected as executive chief resident in his final year. As a chief resident, he was the recipient of the Nas Eftekhar award for excellence in adult reconstruction and the chief resident teacher of the year award. He completed the prestigious adult reconstruction and joint replacement surgery fellowship at the Hospital for Special Surgery and NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, where he received specialized training in navigation and computer-assisted joint replacement and complex and revision reconstruction. Dr. Sarpong is actively engaged in research, with more than 80 peer-reviewed papers, textbook chapters, editorials, and national and international scientific presentations to his credit. His ongoing research interests include the impact of enabling technologies on patient outcomes after hip and knee reconstruction. Dr. Sarpong has served as a peer reviewer for many academic journals, including Foot & Ankle Specialist, the Journal of Arthroplasty, Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, HSS Journal, and the Knee Journal. He is an active member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, the J. Robert Gladden Orthopaedic Society, the New York State Society of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and the American Orthopaedic Association, where he was elected as an emerging leader. Dr. Sarpong is committed to developing the next generation of leaders in medicine as a mentor to medical students, residents, and fellows.

Join Elevated GP: www.theelevatedgp.com Register for the live meeting: https://www.theelevatedgp.com/ElevationSummit Download the Injection Molding Guide: https://www.theelevatedgp.com/IMpdf    What happens when a patient's oral symptoms are actually the first warning signs of a much larger systemic health issue? In this episode of Digital Dentist Digest, Dr. Melissa Seibert welcomes Dr. Natalia Trahan, Assistant Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina, for a deep and clinically relevant conversation on the relationship between systemic disease and oral health.   Dr. Trahan specializes in oral medicine, pathology, and radiology, with a strong focus on the intersection of oral and systemic disease. Together, they discuss how conditions like Sjögren's Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome can present first in the dental office—often before a formal medical diagnosis is made.   This episode explores practical diagnostic strategies for identifying oral manifestations of autoimmune disease, including xerostomia, hyposalivation, chronic parotitis, recurrent candidiasis, increased caries risk, TMJ degeneration, trismus, hypermobility disorders, and inflammatory arthritis involving the temporomandibular joint. Dr. Trahan explains how she evaluates these patients clinically, what radiographic findings matter most, and when advanced imaging like MRI becomes essential for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.   The conversation also addresses the emotional and clinical complexity of treating patients with chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Dr. Trahan shares how empathy, patient advocacy, and a deeper understanding of autoimmune and rheumatic disease can transform the way dentists approach patient care and prevent provider burnout.   For general dentists, restorative dentists, and clinicians interested in oral medicine, this episode offers actionable insight into how better understanding systemic disease leads to better dentistry. If you want to improve diagnosis, strengthen interdisciplinary care, and become a more comprehensive provider, this is an episode you won't want to miss.  

Nearly 26% of U.S. adults—more than 61 million people—live with a disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, yet persistent disparities in employment, education, and health outcomes continue to shape their daily experiences. At the same time, research from the National Institutes of Health shows that nearly half (44%) of respondents believe organizations perform at their best when they actively welcome, respect, and include people of all backgrounds, with a specific emphasis on disability inclusion. In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Chassman Browne—educator, school leader, and passionate DEI and disability advocate—who has been living with Rheumatoid Arthritis since the age of six. Drawing from a lifetime of lived experience and a career dedicated to working with young people, Jenn shares powerful insights into the strengths, resilience, and unique perspectives that individuals with disabilities bring to our communities. Jenn also explores the critical role of allies, inclusive systems, and intentional structures in creating environments where everyone can thrive. As a certified listener poet, she brings a creative and deeply human approach to her work, using storytelling and poetry to foster empathy, connection, and a true sense of belonging. This conversation challenges assumptions, highlights systemic gaps, and ultimately reframes disability not as a limitation—but as a vital part of human diversity that enriches us all. For more information: https://newground.us/index.html Email: jachassman@gmail.com  Follow:  @JenniferChassmanBrowne   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Though burnout is often described as being beyond tired, and in a clinical definition, is a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress. Janet Diaz shares a perspective and practical insights for chronic illness management while building your dream business that completely reframes how we understand burnout, especially when you're managing autoimmune conditions while building a business. Janet is the co-founder of Soulcraft Journeys, creating transformational retreat experiences. She has also navigated decades in corporate roles while managing rheumatoid arthritis, ultimately discovering that her biggest challenges led her to exactly where she was meant to be.What you will learn:Why burnout is really about disconnection, not exhaustionHow to recognize when you're wearing a mask to hide your health strugglesWhy your original plan falling apart might be redirecting you to your purposeHow chronic illness progression can actually clarify your prioritiesThe power of slowing down to reconnect with your inner wisdomHow to transition from survival mode to building something meaningfulWhy adaptation and resilience are entrepreneurial superpowersThis episode is for you if:You feel disconnected from your business purposeYou're pushing through chronic illness while maintaining a professional facadeYour original life plan got completely derailed by health challengesYou're in survival mode as the primary breadwinner with chronic illnessYou're ready to build something that aligns with your authentic self

To have Dr. Morse answer a question, visit: https://drmorses.tv/ask/ All of Dr. Morse's and his son's websites under one roof: https://handcrafted.health/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/handcrafted.health 00:00:00 - Intro - Health Information 00:08:00 - Sports - Fitness 00:09:47 - Swallowing - Throat Issues 00:32:35 - Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) 00:50:24 - ADHD - Bipolar 01:03:30 - Acne - Eczema - Inflammation 01:22:35 - Hirsutism 01:30:25 - Poor Digestion - Eczema - Erythema Nodosum (EN) - Hypothyroidism - Suspicious Mole 00:08:00 - Sports - Fitness Can a man my age compete in sports at a high level? 00:09:47 - Swallowing - Throat Issues Does just eating fruit mainly, cause swallowing/throat issues?  00:32:35 - Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Dr. Morse discussing Rheumatoid Arthritis. 00:50:24 - ADHD - Bipolar I feel my kidneys and adrenals are suffering since I go to toilet four times a night. 01:03:30 - Acne - Eczema - Inflammation What other problems do you see in my eyes? 01:22:35 - Hirsutism I'm feeling incredibly tired and worn out with the amount of hair I have on my body as a young woman. 01:30:25 - Poor Digestion - Eczema - Erythema Nodosum (EN) - Hypothyroidism - Suspicious Mole My naturopath advised against juicing and raw foods.

Join Elevated GP: www.theelevatedgp.com Register for the live meeting: https://www.theelevatedgp.com/ElevationSummit Download the Injection Molding Guide: https://www.theelevatedgp.com/IMpdf    How often do systemic diseases first reveal themselves in the dental chair? In this episode of Digital Dentist Digest, Dr. Melissa Seibert sits down with Dr. Natalia Trahan, Assistant Professor at the Medical University of South Carolina, to explore the critical connection between systemic health and oral health.   Dr. Trahan shares her expertise in oral medicine, pathology, and radiology, with a special focus on how conditions like Sjögren's Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, and autoimmune disorders present with oral symptoms that dentists often encounter first.   The conversation dives into xerostomia, hyposalivation, parotitis, TMJ involvement, chronic pain conditions, inflammatory arthritis, and the importance of recognizing when oral symptoms are actually signs of larger systemic health concerns. Dr. Trahan also explains how dentists can improve diagnosis and treatment planning by looking beyond the oral cavity and considering the full patient picture.   This episode is especially valuable for dentists who want to strengthen their diagnostic skills, improve patient communication, and deliver more compassionate, comprehensive care for medically complex patients. From interpreting panoramic radiographs and MRI findings to understanding autoimmune disease progression and the role of empathy in patient care, this episode offers practical clinical insight every GP can apply immediately.   If you're looking to stay on the cutting edge of evidence-based dentistry, oral-systemic health, and comprehensive patient care, this episode is a must-listen.

The comedy queen of our generation Nikki Glaser is on the pod today!! Not only is she hilarious and gorgeous, but extremely smart and compassionate and a phenomenal talker. We talk all things back pain, depression, sex, and our time together at the Vanity Fair Party. It's a good one enjoy!! Watch her new Hulu comedy special “Good Girl” on Hulu 4/24!! Fibromyalgia quote mentioned source: Wolfe, Walitt, Katz, and Häuser. “Symptoms, the Nature of Fibromyalgia, and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 (DSM-5). Defined Mental Illness in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia Website: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3925165/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Show Notes Inflammation is one of the body's most important defense mechanisms—but when it doesn't shut off, it can quietly contribute to serious health problems. In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison speaks with Dr. Charis Meng, a rheumatologist at NewYork‑Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, about how inflammation works and why chronic inflammation can put the body at risk. Dr. Meng explains the difference between short‑term, helpful inflammation and long‑term inflammation that lingers for months or years, affecting everything from joints to the heart, brain, and immune system. The conversation explores autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, what causes inflammation, and how lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep, stress, and physical activity can impact inflammation. Dr. Meng also discusses treatment options ranging from targeted immune therapies to lifestyle changes, acupuncture, and emerging research on GLP‑1 medications. This episode offers clear, science‑based guidance to help listeners understand inflammation—and what they can do to help keep it in check. Chapters 00:00 – What Is Inflammation, and When Is It Helpful? How inflammation works as the body's natural defense system 03:45 – Acute vs. Chronic Inflammation Why inflammation sometimes doesn't shut off—and how it can cause harm 07:30 – Inflammation and Disease Risk Autoimmune conditions, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer 09:45 – How to Reduce Chronic Inflammation Medical treatments, diet, exercise, sleep, and emerging research   Key Topics Covered Inflammation and the immune system Acute vs. chronic inflammation Autoimmune diseases and rheumatoid arthritis Heart disease, diabetes, and cancer risk Anti‑inflammatory lifestyle habits Mediterranean diet and inflammation Exercise, sleep, and immune balance Acupuncture and integrative care GLP‑1 medications and inflammation research   Takeaway Message Inflammation is the body's natural healing response, but when it becomes chronic and doesn't turn off, it can contribute to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. While some chronic inflammation is driven by autoimmune disease or factors beyond our control, healthy habits like diet, exercise, and sleep can still help support the body and reduce long-term health risks.   Doctor Bio Dr. Charis Meng is an assistant attending rheumatologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an assistant professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, who is also certified in acupuncture. Her practice is in general rheumatology, and her special interests are in treating older patients with chronic pain, low back pain and inflammatory arthritis.

Nutritionist Leyla Muedin discusses joint inflammation—its symptoms (swelling, pain, redness, warmth, morning stiffness, reduced range of motion) and why it is usually a sign of an underlying condition rather than a disease itself. She reviews common causes including osteoarthritis (cartilage wear and tear), rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune synovium attack with prolonged morning stiffness and fatigue), gout (uric acid crystals, often in the big toe), psoriatic arthritis, injuries, autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, ankylosing spondylitis, Sjogren's), infections such as septic arthritis requiring urgent care, and surrounding-tissue problems like tendonitis and bursitis. Lifestyle factors that worsen inflammation include excess weight, poor diet (including unaddressed food allergies; avoiding nightshades is suggested), insulin resistance contributing to gout, lack of exercise, smoking, and stress. Management strategies include rest, bracing, ice vs. heat, OTC anti-inflammatories, gentle low-impact exercise, anti-inflammatory foods, weight loss, treating root causes, and supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, bromelain, turmeric, Boswellia, and quercetin.