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The Science Behind Music's Power to Relieve Chronic Pain

Feeling trapped by chronic pain and dependent on pills? Discover how music can rewire your nervous system and alleviate pain, anxiety, and depression. Join Dr. Michael Lenz as he delves into robust scientific evidence—from randomized controlled trials to systemic reviews—that highlight music's efficacy in treating chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia. Learn how self-chosen music, through mechanisms involving neurochemicals like beta endorphin and oxytocin, can act as your brain’s natural pharmacy. Dr. Lenz provides practical takeaways on harnessing the power of music to activate your body's internal pain relief systems, reduce stress hormones, and improve emotional well-being.

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00:00 Introduction: Music as Medicine
01:20 Scientific Evidence: Music's Impact on Pain
03:31 Mechanisms of Music-Induced Analgesia
04:26 Neurochemicals and Pain Relief
08:21 Practical Applications and Benefits
09:54 Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of Music

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—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. 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 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

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In this episode of the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia podcast, host Mike introduces the podcast's first medical doctor guest, Dr. Maureen Allen. Dr. Allen shares her extensive journey from being a nurse to becoming a family medicine physician and an emergency medicine expert in Nova Scotia, Canada. The episode dives deep into the complexities of managing chronic pain, explaining how palliative care intersects with chronic pain treatment and the challenges patients face in finding the right care. They discuss the distinctions between acute and chronic pain, the role of emergency departments, and the need for a bottom-up approach to pain management. Dr. Allen also highlights the importance of patient education and shares insights from her own practice to help listeners understand and manage chronic pain more effectively.

Watch on YouTube HERE

00:00 Welcome to the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast
00:10 Introducing Dr. Maureen Allen
00:55 Dr. Allen's Medical Journey
01:54 Chronic Pain and Palliative Care
02:36 Addressing Misconceptions About Substance Use
04:00 Challenges in Diagnosing Fibromyalgia
05:39 Pain Education and Management in Canada
09:08 Emergency Departments and Pain Management
13:09 Understanding Chronic Pain Flare-ups
20:13 Patient Concerns and Misdiagnoses
23:29 Understanding Chronic Pain
24:22 Acute Pain vs. Chronic Pain
25:30 Pain Protective Behaviors
27:33 The Role of Exercise in Pain Management
32:27 The Intersection of Anxiety and Pain
36:05 The Importance of Education and Support
40:29 Real Stories and Hope

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—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. 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 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

In this episode, we welcome Amy Larocca, author of 'How to Be Well: Navigating Our Self-Care Epidemic, one Dubious Cure at a Time'. Amy joins us to discuss the intersection of fashion and wellness, chronic invisible illnesses, and the deceptive allure of the wellness industry. From her observations as a fashion journalist to her personal experiences and deep dive into the world of wellness, Amy reveals the psychological and cultural forces at play. We explore the commercialization of self-care, the rise of wellness trends, and the problematic blend of functional medicine with profit-driven motives. Amy also touches on the controversial role of celebrities, such as Gwyneth Paltrow, in promoting pseudoscience, and the constant societal pressure on women to achieve an unattainable standard of 'wellness'. Join us as we dissect the myths of the wellness industry and delve into the true meaning of self-care.

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00:00 The Origins of a Name
00:22 Introducing Amy Larocca: From Fashion to Wellness
01:11 The Intersection of Fashion and Wellness
02:37 The Rise of Wellness Trends
04:10 Motherhood and Wellness
06:59 Gwyneth Paltrow and the Goop Phenomenon
17:13 The Allure and Pitfalls of Functional Medicine
23:49 The Growing Gap in Healthcare Access
25:21 Debunking Health Myths
25:43 The Juice Cleanse Phenomenon
28:41 Balancing Humor and Seriousness in Health
29:04 The Absurdity of Health Trends
30:35 The Exploitation of Wellness
39:36 Biohacking and Its Implications
41:32 The Role of Lifestyle Medicine
43:35 Concluding Thoughts on Wellness

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—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. 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 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

New Breakthrough: The Neurobiological Basis of Fibromyalgia Pain Revealed

Are you or a loved one struggling with widespread pain often dismissed as stress-induced? Dr. Michael Lenz uncovers groundbreaking data showing that such pain is linked to measurable changes in the brain's structure. This episode delves into a massive study involving over 40,000 participants from the UK Biobank, validating the fibromyalgia index (FMI) as a reliable marker for nociplastic pain, especially seen in fibromyalgia. Key findings spotlight the altered structural connectivity within brain regions like the periaqueductal gray and amygdala, elucidating the link between chronic pain and symptoms such as fatigue and depression. Tune in to grasp a deeper understanding of the biological underpinnings of nociplastic pain and its ramifications for targeted treatments.

Watch on Youtube Here

00:00 Introduction to Nociplastic Pain
01:32 Groundbreaking Study on Fibromyalgia Index
01:52 Understanding Nociplastic Pain and Fibromyalgia
02:52 Brain Networks and Pain Modulation
04:08 Key Findings on Structural Connectivity
04:53 Specific Brain Circuits and Symptoms
06:10 Mediation Models and Symptom Domains
07:10 Specificity of the Fibromyalgia Index
07:48 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
08:16 Final Thoughts

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—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. 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 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

Navigating Chronic Pain and Pseudoscientific Treatments: A Deep Dive

The podcast episode features a conversation centered around the challenges and misconceptions in treating chronic conditions like fibromyalgia and ADHD. Topics covered include the shortcomings of mainstream medicine, supply issues of necessary medications, and the appeal of pseudoscientific treatments. Discussions extend to alternative therapies like EMDR for PTSD, their scientific validity, and potential psychological benefits. The episode critiques pseudoscientific grifts in wellness industries, emphasizes the importance of evidence-based medical approaches, and shares personal anecdotes to underline the significance of comprehensive, scientifically grounded care. The conversation concludes by advocating for skepticism over cynicism and the ethical duty of clinicians to empower patients with accurate information.

00:00 Introduction and Patient Case Study
00:05 Challenges with Fibromyalgia and ADHD
00:31 Alternative Medicine and Root Causes
01:43 Mainstream Medicine vs. Alternative Medicine
03:08 Exploring EMDR Therapy
03:54 The Purple Hat Metaphor
05:15 Debate on EMDR's Effectiveness
08:05 Neuroimaging and Mental Health Diagnosis
11:54 Critique of Alternative Pain Models
16:55 Red Flags in Evaluating Therapies
19:08 Personal Story and Motivation
22:14 Final Thoughts and Advocacy

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—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. 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 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

Navigating Mental Health and Chronic Illness: Cutting Through Pseudoscience with Dr. Jonathan Stea

In this episode, clinical psychologist and science communicator Dr. Jonathan Stea joins the show to discuss the intersection of chronic illness and mental health. As an advocate against pseudoscience, Dr. Stea offers insights on identifying and avoiding predatory wellness trends while finding effective, evidence-based treatments. Highlighting the multifaceted reasons why people turn to alternative therapies, Dr. Stea emphasizes the importance of accurate information and ethical healthcare practices. The conversation addresses the proliferation of pseudoscientific diagnoses and the complex factors contributing to misinformation in the wellness industry.

00:00 Introduction: Navigating the Maze of Mental Health and Wellness
00:20 Meet Dr. Jonathan Stea: Separating Fact from Fiction
00:46 The Rise of Alternative Therapies
04:26 Understanding the Appeal of Pseudoscience
05:57 The Cognitive and Social Factors at Play
10:58 The Allure of Integrative and Functional Medicine
18:24 The Harmful Impact of Pseudoscience
19:57 Common Pseudoscientific Practices in Mental Health
21:47 The Danger of Fake Diagnoses
23:57 Conclusion: The Need for Evidence-Based Understanding

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—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. 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 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

Unmasking Medical Misinformation with Scott Carney

In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of health, wellness, and medical misinformation with Scott Carney, a medical anthropologist and investigative journalist. Scott shares his journey from academia to mainstream journalism, exposing fraudulent practices in the wellness industry. The conversation navigates the challenges of differentiating evidence-based medicine from pseudoscientific claims, the rise of wellness gurus exploiting vulnerable populations, and the complex nature of health solutions in the digital age. Scott reveals the manipulative tactics of influencers like Mark Hyman and products like AG1, highlighting the psychological and financial pitfalls of believing in unproven therapies. The discussion also addresses the broader implications of this trend, including the erosion of trust in legitimate authorities and the increasing difficulty of finding reliable health information online. Scott advocates for critical thinking, skepticism, and staying informed to avoid falling prey to health scams.

00:00 Introduction to Scott Carney
01:00 Scott Carney's Background and Career
02:04 The Wellness Industry and Evidence-Based Medicine
03:59 Challenges in Evaluating Medical Claims
04:52 Historical Medical Practices and Modern Misconceptions
07:11 The Internet's Role in Health Misinformation
12:57 Functional Medicine and Its Pitfalls
19:44 The Business of Health Influencers
22:42 Case Study: Athletic Greens (AG1)
31:48 The Future of Health Information and Skepticism
39:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Click here for the YouTube channel

International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers.

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—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. 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 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

Transforming Health Over 50: Maxim Segouin on Plant-Based Living and Fitness

In this episode of the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia podcast, we continue our conversation with Maxim Seguin, who delves deeper into the mindset shifts, daily habits, and powerful stories that have enabled countless individuals to transform their health through a plant-based lifestyle and physical movement. Seguin shares invaluable insights on the importance of protein and fiber, mindset barriers, and the benefits of strength training, especially for individuals over 50. He also highlights the role of community support and practical strategies for integrating fitness and healthier eating into one's life. This episode is packed with inspiring stories and actionable advice for anyone looking to improve their well-being.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:43 Protein vs. Fiber: What's More Important?
01:54 Mindset and Coaching Strategies
05:00 Success Stories and Transformations
08:47 Key Habits for Health After 50
10:53 Why Focus on People Over 50?
12:29 The Importance of Strength Training
17:12 Debunking Fitness and Nutrition Myths
20:10 Overcoming Barriers to Change
22:13 The Power of Supportive Relationships
24:28 Fit Vegan Program and Community
33:51 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Click here for the YouTube channel

Support the show

When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—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. 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 29+ years as an MD.

Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...