Dopamine is a chemical formed in the brain that allows us to experience pleasure, reward, and motivation. The more of it that is released in the synapse, the more likely it can reinforce us to do a specific action all over again. In this episode, Dr. Joe Tatta is joined by Anna Lembke, MD, who discusses how dopamine is not only released through pleasurable activities but also relatively painful ones. She discusses how to achieve a complete pain-pleasure balance in today’s world that keeps bombarding us with dopamine hits left and right – and most of the time, even at our own command. Dr. Anna also explains why pain can become addictive and what must be done to secure a healthy dose of pain in our lives.

It is saddening to hear stories from members of the LGBTQ+ community who are denied healthcare services. Most of the time, doctors and medical practitioners refuse to attend to their needs because of personal preferences, political views, and religious beliefs. Alivia Stehlik, PT, DPT dedicates herself to turning this unfortunate situation around. Joining Dr. Joe Tatta, she talks about her advocacy as a queer trans woman currently serving in the US Army as medical team leader for the 3rd Security Force Assistance Brigade at Fort Cavazos, Texas. Alivia shares practical approaches to transform both the military and healthcare, making them more inclusive and accessible to the LGBTQ+ community. He explains why every medical practitioner should openly meet every human being wherever they are, helping them feel safe and secure regardless of sexual orientation or identity.

The role of the physical therapist in addiction recovery is multifaceted and it encompasses various aspects of the evaluation, the treatment of and support in recovery and addiction. At first glance, it may not seem that physical therapy fits within the addiction realm, but in fact, physical therapy and physical therapy in mental health and addiction is a perfect fit. This is a new topic for most people in our space, so we’re bringing someone who can spearhead this conversation. Holly Johnson, PT, DPT, is a specialist in the intersection between physical therapy, chronic musculoskeletal pain and addiction and mental health. In this conversation, she highlights the need for PTs to educate and train themselves on psychologically informed care so they can make a difference in the lives of people who are recovering from addiction. Tune in and get to know the nuances of care along the intersection of seemingly disparate fields of practice.