Épisodes

  • Inflammation and Sciatica Pain
    Sep 16 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Ashley Mak discusses the often misunderstood role of inflammation in the healing process, particularly in relation to sciatica pain. He explains the three main phases of tissue healing—acute inflammatory, proliferation, and maturation—and emphasizes that inflammation is a necessary part of recovery. The discussion also covers the causes of sciatica pain, the differences between acute injuries and chronic conditions, and the importance of managing inflammation through movement, nutrition, and sleep.

    Disc Healing/Resorption:

    • Title: The Spontaneous Regression of a Herniated Lumbar Disc: A Review of the Literature and a Case Report
    • Journal: Pain Physician
    • Link: https://www.painphysicianjournal.com/current/2017/March/Vol20-S1/PPJ_20-S1_S139.pdf

    McKenzie Method and Directional Preference for Disc Pain:

    • Title: Directional preference in the management of low back pain: a systematic review
    • Journal: Spine
    • Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17694119

    Medical Imaging Not Correlating with Pain:

    • Title: Systematic literature review of imaging features of spinal degeneration in asymptomatic populations
    • Journal: American Journal of Neuroradiology
    • Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25433605

    Ice and Modern Healing Principles:

    • Title: Revisiting the PRICE and RICE acronyms for soft tissue injury management: a systematic review
    • Journal: Sports Medicine
    • Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29243037

    Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products

    Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN

    Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com

    Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707

    Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations

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    11 min
  • Best supplements for Sciatica Pain
    Aug 25 2025

    In this episode, Dr. Ashley Mak discusses the role of supplements in managing sciatica and nerve pain. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the causes of sciatica and highlights the most researched supplements, including alpha lipoic acid, B vitamins, and palmitolethylamide. The conversation also covers supplements with mixed evidence, such as turmeric and MSM, and provides guidelines for safely using supplements. Dr. Mak concludes by stressing the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen.


    Referenced Research Articles

    1. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

    • Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/375279477_Systematic_Review_and_Meta-Analysis_Medicine_R_Effectiveness_of_alpha-lipoic_acid_in_patients_with_neuropathic_pain_associated_with_type_I_and_type_II_diabetes_mellitus_A_systematic_review_and_meta-an
    • Review Article: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9774895/

    2. B Vitamins (especially B12)

    • Systematic Review: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/12/8/2221
    • Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33619867/

    3. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA)

    • Review of Clinical Applications: https://www.dovepress.com/palmitoylethanolamide-in-the-treatment-of-pain-and-its-clinical-applic-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-DDDT
    • Meta-Analysis: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39798151/

    4. Other Supplements

    • Turmeric (Curcumin): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8125634/
    • MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/7458879_Efficacy_of_methylsulfonylmethane_MSM_in_osteoarthritis_pain_of_the_knee_A_pilot_clinical_trial
    • Arnica: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC539394/


    Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products

    Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN

    Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com

    Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707

    Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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    15 min
  • Anxiety and Sciatica pain
    Aug 11 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Ashley and Dr. Tracy Foose, MD explore the intricate relationship between anxiety and pain, discussing how they influence each other and create a feedback loop. They delve into the role of psychiatrists in managing chronic pain, the science behind pain perception, and the psychological impact of conditions like sciatica. The discussion also covers behavioral responses to pain, the influence of social media, and various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy and medication options. Dr. Foose shares insights on finding the right psychiatrist and highlights the importance of understanding the body's response to anxiety and pain.

    You can see more of Dr. Foose's work here: https://www.drfoose.com/

    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us

    Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products

    Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN

    Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com

    Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707

    Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    55 min
  • Fix your own Sciatica v 3.0
    Aug 4 2025

    In this episode, Dr. Ashley Mak discusses the complexities of managing sciatica pain, emphasizing a personalized approach that treats the individual rather than just the diagnosis. The conversation covers the importance of identifying the source of pain, understanding the anatomy of sciatica, and exploring common causes such as herniated discs and piriformis syndrome. Dr. Mak also highlights the significance of quality movement, exercise selection, and the creation of a personalized action plan for effective pain management. The episode concludes with a discussion of common myths and mistakes in sciatica management, encouraging listeners to empower themselves in their healing journey.

    Fix your sciatica v 1.0- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/id1563055005?i=1000520072886

    Fix your sciatica v 2.0- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/id1563055005?i=1000660036358

    Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products

    Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN

    Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com

    Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707

    Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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    42 min
  • Using AI for sciatica pain
    Jun 30 2025

    Dr. Ashley discusses the challenges of managing sciatica pain, emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment approaches. The discussion transitions into the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, particularly in pain management. Dr. Ashley shares insights on how AI can serve as a virtual physical therapist, offering customized treatment plans and increasing accessibility while also addressing the limitations of AI in healthcare. The conversation concludes with practical steps for utilizing AI tools to manage sciatica pain effectively.

    Step 1: Open up google gemin, chatgpt or any other AI program

    Step 2: Copy this podcast link and paste into a digital note: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/id1563055005

    Step 3: Copy this youtube link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDSyjTFrrE45LNbmXNad2dQ

    Step 4: Write this prompt into the chat bot: I want you to pretend to be my physical therapist helping me with sciatica pain. I would like for you to approach my recovery based on Ashley Mak, PT, DPT. Here’s his podcast and here’s his YouTube channel. Let’s start from the beginning as If we are meeting for the first time. Ask me one question at a time.

    (Copy and past the links from the digital note in the prompt as well)

    Step 5: press enter


    Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products



    Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com

    Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707

    Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    18 min
  • Pain management through pregnancy and postpartum
    Jun 23 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Ashley and Dr. Lizellen LaFollette, MD discuss the various stages of pregnancy, focusing on pain management, physical changes, and the importance of support systems. They explore the first, second, and third trimesters, addressing common aches and pains, as well as the postpartum recovery phase. The discussion emphasizes the need for communication with healthcare providers, the role of physical therapy, and the long-term health considerations for women, including menopause.

    You can reach out to Dr. LaFollette directly here:

    Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products

    Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN

    Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com

    Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707

    Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call





    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    47 min
  • The ins and outs of virtual care
    Jun 16 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Ashley and Dr. Krystal Soudaitis explore the evolution of digital health solutions, particularly in the context of tele-rehab in a post-COVID-19 world. They discuss the current landscape of digital health, the impact of the pandemic on healthcare delivery, and the benefits and challenges of tele-rehab. The conversation also highlights the importance of effective communication between patients and healthcare providers, the navigation of health plans and benefits, and the reimbursement models for tele-health services. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the ongoing evolution of digital health and its implications for patient care.

    Here's Krystal's new podcast! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/luxury-cruising-podcast-come-explore-the-world-in-style/id1798831077

    Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products

    Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN

    Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com

    Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707

    Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call





    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    34 min
  • Overcoming Pain: Deborah's Journey with Sciatica
    Jun 9 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Ashley and Deborah Moore discuss Deborah's extensive athletic journey, transitioning from endurance sports to strength training, and overcoming chronic pain. They explore the importance of adaptability in training, debunk myths about aging and mobility, and emphasize the significance of proper form and mindset in athletic performance. Deborah shares her experiences with nutrition and wellness, and they conclude with insights on injury prevention and personal growth in athletics.

    You can reach out to Deborah on instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/strongr_movement/

    Check out our favorite products! (affiliate page): https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/favorite_products

    Did you know that our YouTube channel has a growing number of videos including this podcast? Give us a follow here- https://youtube.com/@fixyoursciatica?si=1svrz6M7RsnFaswN

    Are you looking for a more affordable way to manage your pain? Check out the patient advocate program here: ptpatientadvocate.com

    Here’s the self cheat sheet for symptom management: https://ifixyoursciatica.gymleadmachine.co/self-treatment-cheat-sheet-8707

    Book a free strategy call: https://msgsndr.com/widget/appointment/ifixyoursciatica/strategy-call



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/fix-your-sciatica-podcast/donations

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
    Voir plus Voir moins
    44 min