Compassion—First and foremost I am on a much-needed vacation this week in Italy. From 1980 until 1990, my wife lived in Florence. We have many friends in Italy we like to visit as much as we can. It is a unique opportunity for me in that she is fluent in … Read More
I discuss how the brain becomes more sensitive to pain with repetition. I also introduce the first 3 “E’s” of the 5 “E’s” of chronic pain as well as the evolution of pain. The 5 “E’s” are Empathy, Evaluation, Education, Encouragement and Engagement. For more on this, check out Sensitization … Read More
I discuss the cultural belief system about spine surgery and it’s impact on the treatment for chronic pain. It took me years to understand that performing fusions for LBP is based on unsubstantiated belief rather than hard data. I thought that surgery could always alleviate pain and felt I had an … Read More
I look at the source of the pain and it’s receptors in reference to back pain and one’s spine. I also discuss the difference between a structural and non-structural source of the pain. Read more about this topic in discussing structural sources of pain.
I was raised in a chaotic household. My mother was physically and emotionally abusive. It was confusing for me to feel like I had a mother who would do anything for her family and then, within seconds, watch her unpredictably fly into a rage lasting several days. From a young child’s … Read More
I talk about the importance about finding the “source” of the pain and the implications of the “real” success rates of most spine operations. This clip takes a closer look into back fusions and the research behind them. Learn more about this in my post, “Surgical Results Overly Optimistic.” Aching … Read More
I specialize in Spinal Deformity and salvage operations. In this video, I talk about the cost of unnecessary surgeries and the emotional toll that is can have on patients. It’s something I’ve written about in The “Catastrophe Index.” BF
I discuss the lack of awareness to the alternative approaches in the spine surgeon world and the treatment of chronic pain. We are both not being trained in the correct and effective approach, but also ignoring well-established data. (1) Young AK, et al. “Assessment of presurgical psychological screening in … Read More
I discuss how the DOCC Project model organizes all of the concepts of one’s pain into an understandable format and identifies certain tools that are variably to help one take back control of their life and overcome chronic pain. BF
I talk about the frustration and the feeling of being trapped by chronic pain and how using the DOC Project will help get your pain “Back in Control”. Remember: Anger = Loss of Control.