Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast

Dr. Michael Lenz MD
  • 4.8 (69)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. In the exam room, time is limited. But the need for understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia is vast. That’s why I created this space: to offer deeper education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told that fibromyalgia "isn’t real'" or that it’s "all in your head," I want you to know: I see you. I believe you. And you're not alone. This podcast is here to affirm what you’ve lived through and to explain the science behind what you’re experiencing. Whether you're living with fibromyalgia, supporting someone who is, or a healthcare professional seeking to better serve your patients, I hope you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insight drawn from my 28+ years as a medical doctor, pediatrician, internist, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist. Together, let’s bring compassion and clarity to a condition that’s too often misunderstood—and help make the invisible, visible. You can learn more at www.conqueringyourfibromyalgia.com.

  1. 1D AGO

    Can Weather cause Abdominal Pain?

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Abdominal Migraines, Weather, and Early Fibromyalgia Clues: Pediatric Case and Listener Feedback The episode shares insights on fibromyalgia-related problems with a focus on the role of weather and activity in flareups and how symptoms can begin years before an adult fibromyalgia diagnosis. A pediatric case is presented of a 10-year-old boy with intermittent severe upper abdominal pain lasting hours to a day, nausea without vomiting, reduced appetite, and mild to moderate headaches, with no red-flag symptoms (no fever, diarrhea, bloody stools, weight loss, rash, bruising/petechiae, or joint swelling) and a normal physical exam. Family history includes migraines (maternal aunt), fibromyalgia (maternal grandmother), and restless leg/growing pains (father). The diagnosis is abdominal migraines, and the discussion emphasizes treatment approaches including restoring consistent exercise (noting a drop in activity during winter after basketball season), improving sleep regularity, considering coexisting restless leg syndrome and iron deficiency, maintaining a healthy diet, and screening for stressors and untreated ADHD. The episode also discusses how colder weather and shorter days can reduce activity and contribute to symptom worsening, and recommends tracking steps and adapting with indoor activity or appropriate clothing; it notes that extreme cold or heat can trigger fibromyalgia pain flares. Listener feedback includes praise for a five-part ADHD series with Dr. Dodson and a question about finding fibromyalgia care in Tampa, Florida, with guidance to start with primary care and noting rheumatologists often diagnose fibromyalgia after ruling out inflammatory disease. 00:00 Episode Overview 00:37 Pediatric Case Setup 01:54 Key History Questions 04:43 What Changed This Winter 06:42 Exam Findings 07:45 Diagnosis Abdominal Migraine 08:31 Treatment Basics 10:19 Weather Exercise Connection 14:56 Fibromyalgia Early Clues 15:49 Listener Feedback Q&A 16:42 Finding Fibro Care 17:53 Wrap Up and Goodbye Support the show When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

    19 min
  2. Ep 242 Fibromyalgia in Men Goes Unrecognized

    FEB 19

    Ep 242 Fibromyalgia in Men Goes Unrecognized

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions The Hidden Fibromyalgia Epidemic: How Bias Leaves Millions Undiagnosed—and How AI Can Help The script explains fibromyalgia as a chronic, long-term condition marked by widespread pain, profound fatigue, cognitive difficulties (“fibro fog”), and related mood issues, affecting an estimated 2–4% of the U.S. population (7–14 million) but potentially far more due to underdiagnosis. It describes how the condition is often missed because it is “invisible,” lacks definitive objective tests, and commonly leaves patients in diagnostic limbo for about five years while being dismissed as stressed, depressed, or imagining symptoms. Although the 2016 American College of Rheumatology criteria rely on the Widespread Pain Index and Symptom Severity Score, the script argues diagnosis often fails at the moment clinicians don’t suspect fibromyalgia—driven by longstanding gender and age stereotypes that frame it as a middle-aged women’s disease. It highlights research showing that unbiased application of criteria yields a much closer gender split (about 59% female, 41% male), and that many more men report symptoms than receive diagnoses. The script centers on a study of over 21,000 pain-clinic patients who completed tablet questionnaires with a digital body map; an AI clustered pain patterns into nine groups and identified a “widespread heavy” cluster strongly associated with fibromyalgia, where patients were nearly 30 times more likely to have a fibromyalgia diagnosis than those with low back pain. Yet more than two thirds of patients flagged by the AI lacked a clinical fibromyalgia diagnosis; an objective “informatics proxy” applying the formal criteria found 66.3% of the widespread-heavy cluster met diagnostic criteria, while only 22.4% were diagnosed. The missed patients were more likely to be male and older, demonstrating diagnostic bias. Extrapolating from these findings, the script suggests the true U.S. population meeting criteria could be 21–42 million. It proposes integrating digital body maps and machine-learning alerts into clinic workflows to prompt unbiased evaluation, while emphasizing existing tools already work if applied. The script also frames fibromyalgia as nociplastic pain (central nervous system hypersensitivity), w Support the show When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

    20 min

  3. FEB 11

    Ep 241 FIVE Lesser Known Fibromyalgia Symptoms

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions 5 Lesser-Known Symptoms of Fibromyalgia: Understanding the Hidden Clues This episode addresses the frustration of constantly feeling pain and fatigue despite normal medical tests and discusses fibromyalgia as a possible cause. It highlights five often-missed symptoms of fibromyalgia: extreme skin sensitivity (allodynia), non-cardiac chest pain (costochondritis), vision problems and sensory overload, pelvic and bladder issues (similar to interstitial cystitis), and widespread burning, tingling, or numbness (paresthesia). The goal is to provide viewers with information and validation to facilitate better conversations with their doctors, helping them feel more in control of their health. The episode emphasizes that fibromyalgia symptoms are real and offers hope for a path forward. 00:00 Introduction: The Frustration of Unexplained Pain 00:24 The Mystery of Fibromyalgia 01:11 Symptom 1: Extreme Skin Sensitivity (Allodynia) 02:49 Symptom 2: Non-Cardiac Chest Pain (Costochondritis) 05:17 Symptom 3: Vision Problems and Sensory Overload 07:11 Symptom 4: Pelvic and Bladder Issues 09:10 Symptom 5: Widespread Burning, Numbness, and Tingling 11:05 Conclusion: Empowering Your Health Journey Support the show When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

    14 min
  4. Ep. 240 Fibromyalgia Is Not An Acceptable Diagnosis?

    FEB 4

    Ep. 240 Fibromyalgia Is Not An Acceptable Diagnosis?

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Debunking Myths About Fibromyalgia Diagnosis: A Doctor's Reaction to Naturopathic Claims Dr. Michael Lenz reacts to a naturopath's controversial statements about fibromyalgia diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based medicine. He discusses the legitimacy of fibromyalgia as a real condition characterized by altered pain processing in the central nervous system. Dr. Lenz debunks myths about root causes like mold toxicity, food sensitivities, adrenal fatigue, and mitochondrial dysfunction, advocating for a holistic, science-based approach to managing these chronic invisible illnesses, also known as nociplastic pain syndromes, which fibromyalgia epitomizes. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Story 01:04 Controversy Around Fibromyalgia Diagnosis 01:56 Understanding Fibromyalgia: Symptoms and Diagnosis 03:12 Challenges with Fibromyalgia Diagnosis 04:58 Functional Medicine Perspective 13:39 Debunking Functional Medicine Claims 15:07 Evidence-Based Solutions for Fibromyalgia 18:50 Conclusion and Call to Action Support the show When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

    21 min
  5. Ep 239 What Motion Sickness Teaches us about Fibromyalgia

    JAN 28

    Ep 239 What Motion Sickness Teaches us about Fibromyalgia

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Understanding Fibromyalgia Flares Through Motion Sickness in Autism and ADHD Join Dr. Michael Lenz as he explores the connection between motion sickness and fibromyalgia flares, particularly in individuals with autism and ADHD. Discover how sensory processing differences and predictive coding play a role in chronic pain and stress responses. Learn practical strategies for reducing unpredictability and supporting neurodivergent individuals living with fibromyalgia and other pain syndromes. Like, subscribe, and share for more science-based insights into chronic pain and neurodiversity. 00:00 Introduction: Motion Sickness and Fibromyalgia 00:37 Understanding Motion Sickness 01:32 Neurodivergence and Sensory Processing 02:09 Fibromyalgia and Sensory Mismatch 03:25 Managing Life with Neurodivergence 03:52 Compassionate Interventions 04:14 Conclusion: Insights and Support Support the show When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

    6 min
  6. Ep 238 ADHD and Perimenopause: New Research Findings

    JAN 21

    Ep 238 ADHD and Perimenopause: New Research Findings

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Exploring ADHD and Perimenopausal Symptoms: Insights from a Recent Study In this episode, we examine the intersection of ADHD and perimenopausal symptoms using a recent cohort study from Iceland, Sweden, and the Netherlands. The study aimed to fill a knowledge gap about the impact of perimenopause on women with ADHD. Findings indicated that women with ADHD experience more severe and earlier onset perimenopausal symptoms compared to women without ADHD. The discussion highlights major findings, methodology, potential confounding factors, and the implications for healthcare professionals and women with ADHD. Tune in for a comprehensive look at this significant research! Watch on YouTube Here 00:00 Introduction to the Study 00:23 Research Goals and Hypotheses 01:16 Study Methodology 03:17 Key Findings on Symptom Burden 05:26 Age and Timing of Symptoms 06:23 Contributing Factors and Comorbidities 07:38 Implications for Healthcare 08:39 Study Limitations and Future Research 10:00 Conclusion and Call to Action Support the show When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

    11 min
  7. Ep 237 CBD and Marijuana for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain: Does It Really Help?

    JAN 14

    Ep 237 CBD and Marijuana for Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain: Does It Really Help?

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Unveiling the Truth: CBD, Marijuana and Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain - Groundbreaking Research Findings Join us in this episode as we welcome Marianne Rasmussen, a health scientist with extensive experience in fibromyalgia research, to discuss a pivotal study on the efficacy of CBD in treating fibromyalgia. Marianne shares her journey from a registered nurse to a PhD researcher, her passion for fibromyalgia patients, and the surprising results of her rigorous trial. Despite high hopes, the study revealed no significant benefits of CBD over placebo for pain, quality of life, or functional ability. We delve into the recruitment process, the importance of patient care, and the broader implications of these findings. This enlightening conversation sheds light on the complex world of fibromyalgia treatment and the power of compassionate healthcare. Don't miss this deep dive into cutting-edge research and its impact on patient care. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:36 Guest Background and Experience 02:27 Motivation Behind the Study 03:59 Study Design and Methodology 06:21 Key Findings and Surprising Results 08:14 Patient Recruitment and Randomization 11:24 Treatment Details and Side Effects 16:36 Placebo Effect and Patient Care 24:27 Broader Implications and Recommendations 31:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Click here for the YouTube channel Support the show When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

    38 min
  8. Ep 236 ADHD and Trauma: What You Need to Know

    JAN 7

    Ep 236 ADHD and Trauma: What You Need to Know

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Understanding the Link Between ADHD and Trauma with Dr. Iris Manor Join us as we explore the intricate connections between ADHD, PTSD, and trauma with Dr. Iris Manor, a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist and director of the lifespan ADHD clinic at Gaha Mental Health Clinic. In this in-depth discussion, Dr. Manor sheds light on why individuals with ADHD are more prone to developing traumatic stress disorders and PTSD, backed by research and case studies. We delve into the biological, behavioral, and environmental factors contributing to these conditions, as well as the essential treatment and management strategies. Dr. Manor also emphasizes the importance of treating ADHD to mitigate the impact of trauma and provides valuable insights into the role of family dynamics in recovery. Whether you're a clinician, a parent, or someone living with ADHD and trauma, this episode offers vital information and practical advice. Watch on YouTube Here 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Special Guest 01:19 Understanding the Link Between ADHD and Trauma 03:20 Behavioral and Biological Explanations 05:22 Genetic and Environmental Factors 07:53 Impact of Trauma on ADHD 14:16 COVID-19 as a Trauma and Its Effects 19:23 Treatment and Resilience Strategies 26:05 Positive Magic Circle for PTSD and ADHD 26:31 Screening Parents for ADHD and PTSD 26:49 Diagnosing and Treating Families 29:22 Challenges in Treating ADHD and PTSD 31:36 Emotional Dysregulation and ADHD 33:48 Medications for Emotional Dysregulation 36:23 Autism, ADHD, and Trauma 39:07 The Impact of Trauma on ADHD 44:48 ADHD Awareness and Treatment Click here for the YouTube channel International Conference on ADHD in November 2025 where Dr. Lenz will be one of the speakers. Joy Lenz Fibromyalgia 101. A list of fibromyalgia podcast episodes that are great if you are new and don't know where to start.  Support the show When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD. Please remember to talk with your doctor about your symptoms and care. This content doesn’t replace per...

    58 min
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4.8
out of 5
69 Ratings

About

When I started this podcast—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. In the exam room, time is limited. But the need for understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia is vast. That’s why I created this space: to offer deeper education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told that fibromyalgia "isn’t real'" or that it’s "all in your head," I want you to know: I see you. I believe you. And you're not alone. This podcast is here to affirm what you’ve lived through and to explain the science behind what you’re experiencing. Whether you're living with fibromyalgia, supporting someone who is, or a healthcare professional seeking to better serve your patients, I hope you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insight drawn from my 28+ years as a medical doctor, pediatrician, internist, lifestyle medicine physician, and clinical lipidologist. Together, let’s bring compassion and clarity to a condition that’s too often misunderstood—and help make the invisible, visible. You can learn more at www.conqueringyourfibromyalgia.com.

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