Wellness isn't a biohack!

Wellness is one of the most overused words in medicine. It's also one of the most important.Not because of biohacks or trends — but because the fundamentals of how we build a body, mind, and life that lasts are consistently overlooked in favor of short-term fixes.In this episode, I break down what wellness actually means, why lifespan and healthspan are not the same thing, and the Six Pillars framework I use to think about sustainable well-being.What You'll LearnWhy living longer doesn't automatically mean living better — and what the data actually shows about healthspan in AmericaThe Six Pillars of Wellness and how neglecting even one weakens the entire structureWhy most people don't have a wellness problem — they have a prioritization problemThe Six PillarsPhysical Health — Movement as medicine. Why consistency beats intensity, and why physical inactivity is an independent risk factor for chronic diseaseNutrition — Not a diet. A lifestyle. Why any deviation from the standard American diet is a step forward, and what the long-term evidence actually supportsMental & Emotional Health — Stress management isn't weakness. Practical tools: mindfulness, breathwork, journaling, gratitude, and therapySleep & Recovery — The most underrated performance variable. What sleep deprivation does to insulin resistance, pain sensitivity, and decision-makingConnection — Loneliness carries a mortality risk comparable to smoking. Why relationships, community, and purpose are non-negotiable pillarsLeadership & Personal Responsibility — Ownership over your life and your journey. The difference between a victim mentality and a growth mentalityKey InsightMost people over-index on one pillar and neglect the rest. The goal isn't perfection in any single area. It's coordination across all six. A practical starting point: rate yourself 1–10 in each pillar. Identify your lowest score. Focus there for the next 30 days.If this was useful, leave a comment. If not, no worries — see you next time.

In this episode, Dr. Brian Joves shares a personal journey of confronting cancer and how it reshaped his perspective on nutrition. Despite the fact that most physicians receive only a few hours of formal training in nutrition, diet remains one of the most powerful—and underutilized—tools in medicine.We’ll discuss:Why nutrition education is lacking in medical training.The dangers of the Standard American Diet (SAD) and its role in chronic disease and pain.The science behind ketogenic diets, the Warburg effect, and what emerging research says about cancer and metabolism.How nutrition quality directly impacts chronic spinal pain and recovery.Practical, evidence-based ways patients can improve wellness and resilience—whether managing cancer, chronic pain, or simply aiming for better health.Key Takeaways:Nutrition is foundational—not optional—for long-term health, recovery, and resilience.Cancer and chronic pain share a common thread: both are influenced by inflammation, metabolic health, and lifestyle choices.Medical interventions—whether injections, medications, or surgery—are more effective when paired with better nutrition, movement, rest, and mindset.Patients don’t need to overhaul everything at once. Small, consistent changes—reducing processed foods, improving diet quality, and focusing on whole foods—can be transformative.Want to dive deeper into the link between nutrition and pain? Check out my prior episodes here:Nutrition and Chronic Pain (https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/eo3TZcNloWb?utm_source=chatgpt.com)Nutrition, Inflammation, and Pain Medicine (https://open.spotify.com/episode/18CCOiYVIN2yN4wOO2Xuwi?si=DQM3SJgwS5-Nj0Er_4P5Hg&utm_source=chatgpt.com)

In this episode, I take a step back from the usual discussions on interventional pain medicine to share something deeply personal. Recently, I was diagnosed with oral cancer—an unexpected and humbling moment that has given me a new lens through which to look at health, wellness, and the work we do every day in medicine.This experience has reminded me of two important truths:Health is never guaranteed. It requires intentional, daily choices.True wellness goes beyond treating disease. It’s about prevention, proactive care, and balance—physical, emotional, and even spiritual.We’ll explore how evidence-based medicine and wellness intersect, and why these conversations need to expand beyond procedures and medications. That means screening for silent diseases, prioritizing exercise and nutrition, managing stress, and building sustainable habits that allow us to live fully—not just avoid pain.As a physician, as a patient, and as someone who has lived both sides of the exam room, I want to use this chapter of my life to expand the dialogue. My hope is that this conversation will not only resonate with those struggling with chronic pain, but also with anyone who needs the reminder that wellness is an ongoing journey—one that requires attention before the crisis, not just after it.Takeaway: Wellness isn’t an abstract idea. It’s something we can integrate into pain medicine, into our personal lives, and into the daily decisions that shape our future health.

In this episode of the Spine & Nerve Podcast, Dr. Brian Joves and Dr. Jason Kung dive into the evolving world of peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS). As the field of pain medicine continues to progress, new studies are offering more insights into advanced therapies for challenging conditions like peripheral neuralgia and chronic pain. This discussion focused on the COMFORT study, which evaluates the efficacy of the Nalu PNS System, and discuss recent data presented at the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA) meeting concerning the SPRINT PNS System. Key Topics Covered: COMFORT Study Insights: The doctors analyze the one-year data from the COMFORT trial, a randomized controlled study assessing the Nalu PNS System combined with conventional treatments versus conventional treatments alone for chronic neuropathic pain. They highlight significant findings, including an 87% responder rate with an average pain reduction of 69% among responders at 12 months. SPRINT PNS System Data: Discussion extends to new data from the SPRINT PNS System, particularly the RESET Clinical Trial, which compares 60-day percutaneous PNS to standard interventional management for chronic low back pain. The trial's primary endpoint results indicate that PNS provided clinically meaningful and statistically superior reductions in pain, as well as improvements in function and quality of life. Clinical Implications and Future Directions: Dr. Joves and Dr. Kung explore the broader implications of these studies for clinical practice, emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment plans and the potential for PNS therapies to offer durable pain relief. They also discuss the evolving landscape of pain management and the need for ongoing research to refine and validate these therapeutic approaches. Resources and Links: https://nalumed.com/clinical-trials/comfort-trial/ https://www.sprtherapeutics.com/2024/11/21/new-sprint-pns-data-for-low-back-shoulder-knee-and-headache-at-23rd-annual-asra-pain-medicine-meeting/ Follow us on LinkedIn: ⁠Jason Kung, MD and Brian Joves, MD⁠ Subscribe to the Spine & Nerve Podcast everywhere podcasts are available Keep striving to provide the best care for your patients and stay informed on the evolving practices in pain management! This podcast is for information and educational purposes only, it is not meant to be medical or career advice. If anything discussed may pertain to you, please seek council with your healthcare provider. The views expressed are those of the individuals expressing them, they may not represent the views of Spine & Nerve.

Episode Overview: In this episode, Dr. Brian Joves sits down with Dr. Scott Pritzlaff, an esteemed pain management specialist and the residency program director at UC Davis, to tackle some big questions on the current state and future of pain medicine. They dive into Dr. Pritzlaff's recent thought-provoking editorial, "From Pain Medicine to Pain Surgery: How Our Specialty Lost Its Way," which critiques the field’s shifting focus toward procedures at the expense of comprehensive patient care. Together, Dr. Joves and Dr. Pritzlaff discuss challenges in pain medicine, including recruitment issues, the evolving landscape of interventional procedures, and the complexities of training the next generation of pain specialists. Key Topics Discussed: The Evolution of Pain Medicine: Dr. Pritzlaff explains the rapid technological advancements in pain medicine, especially in peripheral nerve stimulation, spinal cord stimulation, and minimally invasive spine procedures. While these advancements offer more options for patients, he warns that they can overshadow the core values of patient-centered care and non-procedural management. Pain Medicine’s “Identity Crisis”: In his editorial, Dr. Pritzlaff questions the growing emphasis on procedures and the trend of “pain surgery” within the specialty. He emphasizes that pain management is about more than just interventions—it’s about the art of diagnosis, multidisciplinary treatment plans, and knowing when not to perform procedures. This emphasis on procedure-heavy training, he argues, risks alienating future specialists who are passionate about comprehensive patient care. The Challenge of Training in a One-Year Fellowship: With the increasing complexity of pain medicine, a one-year fellowship may no longer suffice. Dr. Pritzlaff advocates for an expanded training period to cover essential skills, such as advanced imaging interpretation, opioid and multimodal pharmacology, and honing the “soft skills” crucial for patient communication and holistic care. Recruitment Issues in Pain Medicine: Pain medicine residency applications have dropped, especially from anesthesiology—a trend driven largely by competitive anesthesiology salaries and demand. Dr. Pritzlaff and Dr. Joves discuss how pain medicine needs to rebrand itself to attract applicants who are passionate about improving patients’ quality of life through comprehensive care, not just procedures. Future Training Models and Vision for Pain Medicine: A 2 year fellowship model or a dedicated residency program are presented as potential solutions to better prepare trainees. Dr. Pritzlaff imagines a program where the first year focuses on foundational knowledge and multi-disciplinary skills, and a second year sharpens advanced interventional skills. Takeaways for Listeners: Pain medicine is at a pivotal point, balancing advancements in interventional procedures with the traditional values of comprehensive patient care. The field must prioritize holistic training and mentorship to foster well-rounded pain physicians who can deliver thoughtful, personalized care. Links & Resources: Dr. Scott Pritzlaff’s Editorial: "From Pain Medicine to Pain Surgery: How Our Specialty Lost Its Way" in the Journal of Pain Research Connect with Dr. Pritzlaff and Dr. Joves on Linkedin or Twitter This podcast is for information and educational purposes only, it is not meant to be medical or career advice. If anything discussed may pertain to you, please seek council with your healthcare provider. The views expressed are those of the individuals expressing them, they may not represent the views of Spine & Nerve.

In this episode of the Spine & Nerve podcast, Dr. Brian Joves sits down with Dr. Richard Winters, an emergency physician, leadership coach, and author, to discuss leadership, coaching, and the unique challenges physicians face as they transition into leadership roles. Whether you're early in your career or a seasoned physician looking to expand your leadership skills, this episode offers practical advice on how to build a successful career in medicine while growing as a leader. Key Takeaways: 🩺 Leadership at All Levels: Dr. Winters explains that leadership doesn't just come from holding formal titles—it's about how we lead in our everyday roles as physicians, working with our teams, and even interacting with patients and their families. 🔍 Understanding the Difference Between Mentorship and Coaching: Dr. Winters breaks down the critical distinction between mentorship and coaching, emphasizing how mentors provide guidance based on their experiences, while coaches help you unlock your potential by asking the right questions and facilitating growth. 💡 Overplaying Expertise: One common pitfall physicians face, especially early in their careers, is overplaying their expertise. Dr. Winters highlights the importance of knowing when to lead as an expert and when to step back and facilitate collaboration, especially in complex, uncertain environments. 🤝 Leading Teams & Self: As a physician leader, it’s essential to learn how to lead small teams, larger organizations, and, most importantly, yourself. Dr. Winters discusses the value of self-awareness and continuous personal development. 💬 Quotes from the Episode: "Expertise is valuable, but knowing when to step back and allow others to contribute can be even more powerful." "Physician leadership isn’t just about running committees or managing departments—it’s about how we interact, communicate, and support the people around us every day." "Coaching is about helping people find their own answers. It’s not about telling them what to do." 📈 Practical Applications: For New Leaders: If you're stepping into a leadership role for the first time, this episode will help you understand the dynamics of leading teams and how to balance your role as an expert with that of a coach. For Mentors and Coaches: Learn how to support younger physicians by balancing mentorship and coaching, helping them grow without imposing your own path on them. Resources: Dr. Winters' Book: You're the Leader, Now What? Richard Winters Website Connect with Dr. Winters on LinkedIn and Twitter 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to the Spine & Nerve Podcast for more conversations with leading experts on pain management, leadership, and healthcare! #LeadershipInMedicine #PhysicianCoach #BrianJovesMD #RichardWinters #HealthcareLeadership #CoachingInMedicine #SpineAndNerve #Podcast

The Pros and Cons of Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) vs. Office-Based Procedure SuitesWelcome back to another insightful episode! Today, we’re diving deep into a topic that’s been on the minds of many healthcare providers: the differences between Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) and office-based procedure suites. Joining us is Teri Yates, an expert in helping physicians navigate the complexities of practice management and facility development. Whether you're a solo practitioner or part of a growing group, understanding the pros and cons of these options is crucial for optimizing your practice.In This Episode, We Cover:- The Key Differences Between ASCs and Office-Based Procedure Suites:Learn what sets these two options apart, from regulatory requirements to billing practices, and why the choice matters for your practice. - The Benefits and Challenges of Setting Up an ASC: Discover why ASCs require a significant investment but can offer unparalleled control over your operations, leading to increased efficiency and patient satisfaction.- The Hybrid Model Explained:Some physicians are choosing to combine both ASCs and office-based suites in one facility. Find out how this approach can provide flexibility and maximize reimbursement.- Why a Feasibility Study is Essential:Before jumping into ASC development, a feasibility study is crucial. We discuss the key factors that should influence your decision, including case volume and state regulations.- Long-term Strategic Considerations:Thinking about the future? We explore how owning an ASC can be a valuable asset, offering opportunities for future sale, real estate investment, and even a retirement plan.Why You Should Listen:If you’re considering expanding your practice or simply want to understand the best operational setup for your needs, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Teri Yates shares expert advice that could help you make informed decisions about the future of your practice.Connect with Terri Yates:- Website: Doc Centric Surgery Centers www.doccentricasc.com- Contact: Teri Yates - Accountable Physician Advisors [email protected]’t miss this episode if you’re looking to enhance your practice’s efficiency, revenue, and future potential!

In this episode of The Spine & Nerve Podcast, Dr. Jason Kung and Dr. Brian Joves break down the new California opioid guidelines with insights that every healthcare provider and pain management specialist should know. Our doctors explore the latest guidelines from the California Medical Board, published in July 2023 and designed to navigate the complexities of prescribing opioids in chronic pain management. Whether you're in California or beyond, this episode is a must-listen to understand the evolving landscape of pain treatment. Understanding the New Guidelines Published in July 2023, these guidelines are a response to the opioid crisis and aim to balance effective pain management with reducing opioid-related risks. Patient-Centered Approach Discover how the new guidelines emphasize a patient-focused approach. From initial evaluations to risk assessments- the guidelines highlight the importance of treating each patient as an individual, tailoring treatments to their specific needs and conditions. The Role of Documentation thorough documentation in pain management is critical. Proper documentation not only supports clinical decisions but also safeguards both the provider and the patient throughout the treatment process. Managing High-Risk Patients Explore strategies for managing patients at high risk of opioid misuse. The guidelines provide tools for assessing and mitigating risks, ensuring that opioid therapy is reserved for those who will benefit most and are least likely to experience adverse outcomes. Opioid Tapering and Legacy Patients The team discusses the sensitive topic of tapering long-term opioid therapy, particularly for legacy patients who have been on high-dose opioids for extended periods. Learn how to approach tapering with caution to minimize patient distress and maximize safety. Telehealth and Pain Management Understand the role of telehealth in pain management as outlined in the new guidelines. While a valuable tool, telehealth requires careful use to ensure that patients receive appropriate examinations and care. Social Media Spotlight: Dr. Kung shares his experience rejoining social media through LinkedIn, offering a glimpse into how pain management professionals stay connected and informed. Breaking Down the Guidelines: A detailed exploration of the California Medical Board’s opioid guidelines, including patient evaluation, risk assessment, and non-opioid treatments. Explore the California Opioid Guidelines: Access the document directly from the show notes to understand the specifics and apply them in your practice. Engage with Us: Subscribe to the Spine & Nerve podcast, share this episode with your colleagues, and join the discussion on LinkedIn and other social media platforms. "Pain relief is important, but it is difficult to measure objectively. Our goal is to maintain or improve function while managing pain effectively." - Dr. Brian Joves Dive into this episode and equip yourself with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complex world of pain management with confidence and compassion. California Opioid Guidelines: Access the full guidelines here Follow us on LinkedIn: Jason Kung, MD and Brian Joves, MD Subscribe to the Spine & Nerve Podcast everywhere podcasts are available Keep striving to provide the best care for your patients and stay informed on the evolving practices in pain management! This podcast is for information and educational purposes only, it is not meant to be medical or career advice. If anything discussed may pertain to you, please seek council with your healthcare provider. The views expressed are those of the individuals expressing them, they may not represent the views of Spine & Nerve.

In this episode of the Spine & Nerve podcast, join Brian Joves, MD for an enlightening conversation with Mike Ochoa, DPT, a passionate advocate for fitness in aging populations. Dr. Mike brings valuable insights into the importance of exercise, particularly weightlifting, in promoting longevity and overall well-being as we age. Discover the truth behind common misconceptions about aging and exercise, and learn how to tailor fitness routines to individual needs and goals. Key Takeaways: Learn why weightlifting is a powerful tool for enhancing muscle health and longevity in older adults. Understand the importance of challenging, albeit sometimes uncomfortable, exercise for optimal improvement. Explore the benefits of resistance training in preventing age-related conditions like sarcopenia and osteoporosis. Gain insights into debunking myths surrounding aging and exercise, fostering a mindset of empowerment and possibility. Discover practical strategies for creating personalized exercise programs that cater to individual abilities and aspirations. Tune in to gain valuable wisdom and actionable advice from Dr. Mike Ochoa, and embark on a journey toward maximizing fitness and vitality in your golden years. find Dr. Mike on YouTube, IG, TikTok @MovewithDrMike (https://www.youtube.com/@MovewithDrMike  ) Connect with Dr. Joves on Linkedin or X Follow @spinenerve on Youtube, IG This podcast is for information and educational purposes only, it is not meant to be medical or career advice. If anything discussed may pertain to you, please seek council with your healthcare provider. The views expressed are those of the individuals expressing them, they may not represent the views of Spine & Nerve.

Episode Summary:Join Dr. Jason Kung and Dr. Brian Joves for an in-depth discussion on the latest in neuromodulation. This episode covers a range of topics from the North American Neuromodulation Society 2024 Annual Meeting highlights to a journal club traversing the topics of spinal cord stimulation, closed-loop technology, and the impact of paraspinal muscle atrophy on vertebral endplates. With a blend of expert insights and a review of recent studies, this episode offers a comprehensive look into the advancements and challenges within the field of neuromodulation. Key Points Discussed: North American Neuromodulation Society Meeting Recap: Dr. Kung shares his experiences and key takeaways from the event, highlighting the growing interest in SI joint fusion and the lack of major announcements in neuromodulation waveforms. MRI Compatibility in Neuromodulation Devices: The hosts delve into the importance of MRI compatibility, discussing the implications for patient care and device selection. The Evoke Study and Closed-Loop Stimulation: An in-depth review of the 36-month data from the Evoke trial, which compares closed-loop spinal cord stimulation to traditional open-loop systems. The study's findings on pain relief and the potential for closed-loop technology to revolutionize patient outcomes are explored. Paraspinal Muscle Atrophy and Spinal Health: A discussion on a recent study examining the association between paraspinal muscle atrophy and vertebral endplate degeneration, underscoring the importance of physical therapy and core strength in pain management. Notable Quotes:" The development of the space is not just about this waveform versus that waveform, but understanding that there are many factors that play into patient success." - Dr. Brian Joves "With ECAPs, we're moving towards a two-way feedback system in spinal cord stimulation, akin to how a pacemaker works." - Dr. Jason Kung Closing Thoughts:The episode wraps up with reflections on the potential of neuromodulation technologies and the importance of continued innovation to improve patient care. The hosts also express interest in seeing how closed-loop stimulation and other advancements will perform in real-world settings. Connect with Us: Find Dr. Jason Kung or Dr. Brian Joves on LinkedIn Connect with the podcast on YouTube, IG and Facebook @ SpineNerve Be sure to share, like and subscribe! Upcoming Episodes:Stay tuned for future discussions on groundbreaking studies in pain management and neuromodulation, along with guest appearances from leaders in the field. References: Mullins CF, Harris S, Pang D. A retrospective review of elevated lead impedances in impedance-dependent magnetic resonance-conditional spinal cord stimulation devices. Pain Pract. 2024; 24: 270–277. https://doi.org/10.1111/papr.13301. Mekhail NA, Levy RM, Deer TR, et al ECAP-controlled closed-loop versus open-loop SCS for the treatment of chronic pain: 36-month results of the EVOKE blinded randomized clinical trial Regional Anesthesia & Pain Medicine Published Online First: 27 August 2023. doi: 10.1136/rapm-2023-104751 Schönnagel, Lukas et al. Understanding the Interplay Between Paraspinal Muscle Atrophy and Lumbar Endplate Degeneration: A 3-Year Longitudinal Study. Spine 48(23):p 1627-1634, December 1, 2023. | DOI: 10.1097/BRS.0000000000004826 Pritzlaff et al. A Review of the Factors and Outcomes of Institutional Interdisciplinary Neuromodulation Committees: A Multicenter Experience. Neuromodulation. February 06, 2024 Disclaimer: Reminder that the information provided is for educational purposes and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional.