Author: Dr. Michael Reuter, DPT, OCS
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Mindfulness: Taming the Pain Beast
Chronic pain has a way of taking over. It can dominate your thoughts, color every plan you make, and turn simple moments — sitting, walking, waiting in line — into something to brace against. Mindfulness, the first pillar of the MEDS approach, offers a different way to relate to that experience. At its core, mindfulness…
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Exercise and the MEDS Approach: Moving Through Chronic Pain
Chronic pain touches nearly every part of daily life — sleep, mood, relationships, work, and the ability to simply enjoy the day. For veterans, chronic pain is especially common, and it often shows up alongside other challenges like PTSD or old service-related injuries. That’s why effective pain management rarely comes down to a single fix.…
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Relieving Pain and Boosting Health: The Mediterranean Diet for Veterans
As a physical therapist I understand that pain management is a crucial aspect of your journey to recovery and wellness. In this post, I’d like to introduce you to the Mediterranean diet, a delicious and nutritious option of eating that can not only enhance your overall health but also help in managing pain effectively. The…
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Sleep: Your Ally in Managing Chronic Pain – A Guide for Veterans
Living with chronic pain can be an overwhelming challenge, and many are all too familiar with its persistent grip on daily lives. As a physical therapist who has had the privilege of working with veterans, I understand the cycle that sleep and pain have with each other. The Chronic Pain Battle Chronic pain can disrupt…
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The MEDS Approach to a Healthier Life: Mindfulness, Exercise, Diet, Sleep
Chronic pain can be a daunting challenge for many veterans who have served. Whether it’s a result of combat-related injuries or the wear and tear of military service, living with chronic pain can significantly impact the quality of life. However, there’s hope on the horizon in the form of the MEDS approach: Mindfulness, Exercise, Diet,…
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Over a Decade at the VA: Unraveling the Complexities of Treating Persistent Pain
In the world of healthcare, few challenges are as daunting and multifaceted as the treatment of persistent pain. Over the past ten years, as a physical therapist working at a Veterans hospital, I have encountered countless veterans battling persistent pain. Through these experiences, I’ve gained profound insights into the complexities of this condition and, more…
