Living Beyond Pain: Dr. Mel Pohl's Opioid-Free Approach
The best painkiller, the strongest, most reliable painkiller, is an opioid, and opioids work in a part of the brain where rewards are experienced and, as you know, the reward center is what's deranged or abnormal in people who have addiction.
What if there was a way to manage chronic pain without relying on opioids? In this episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', host Mary Woods sits down with Dr. Mel Pohl, the Vice President of Medical Affairs and Medical Director of the Las Vegas Recovery Center. Dr. Pohl is not only a renowned public speaker but also an author who has dedicated his career to finding effective, non-opioid treatments for chronic pain.
He shares insights from his book, 'A Day Without Pain', and discusses the complexities of chronic pain management. Dr. Pohl explains that chronic pain is more than just a physical sensation; it involves a complex interplay of the brain's reward systems and pain amplification mechanisms. Some people are genetically predisposed to feel pain more intensely, making traditional opioid treatments risky due to their high potential for addiction. Instead, Dr.
Pohl advocates for a holistic approach that includes exercise, healthy eating, and quitting smoking. These lifestyle changes may not offer immediate relief but provide long-term benefits. The episode also delves into alternative therapies like hypnosis and acupuncture, and how emotional and cultural factors can influence one's experience of pain. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice on managing pain without the risks associated with opioids.