Ep 75: Lifestyle Medicine Meets Orthopedics: Changing the Way We Treat Pain with Dr. Heidi Prather

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Starting Gate, we talk with PM&R physician Dr. Heidi Prather, who founded the Lifestyle Medicine Program at Hospital for Special Surgery. Dr. Prather has seen firsthand how lifestyle changes can play an important role in managing musculoskeletal pain, improving function, and even influencing outcomes for patients undergoing orthopedic surgery.We discuss why the same treatment or intervention may not work the same way for every person and how underlying health conditions—including cardiovascular and metabolic health—can influence treatment response. Dr. Prather shares how dietary changes can affect pain and recovery, why movement is important for joint health, and how to know when it is appropriate to move through pain versus when pain is a signal to stop.We also explore the often-overlooked connections between sleep, stress, social isolation, and pain, and how community and group medical visits can support meaningful lifestyle change.Finally, we talk about the potential for lifestyle medicine to improve surgical outcomes, help patients recover more successfully, and ultimately reduce costs for the healthcare system.This conversation is a powerful reminder that treating musculoskeletal problems may require looking beyond the joint—and addressing the whole person.Find Dr. Prather at the Hospital for Special Surgerythestartinggatepodcast.comEmail us with questions and topics you want us to cover at [email protected] us on social media @thestartinggatepodcastThe content in this podcast is for general reference and educational purposes only.  It is not meant to be complete or exhaustive, or to be applicable to anyspecific individual’s medical condition.   No information provided in this podcast constitutes medical advice and is not an attempt to practice medicine or to provide specific medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician- patient relationship and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Please do not rely on this podcast for emergency medical treatment.  Remember that everyone is different so make sure you consult your own healthcare professional before seeking any new treatment and before you alter, suspend, or initiate a new change in your routine.