In today’s episode, we dive into how brain health plays a crucial role in chronic pain management. Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr. Brenda Lau, the Medical Director and renowned pain specialist at ChangePain in Vancouver, B.C.
ChangePain - https://www.changepain.ca/
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Accessing healthcare can be challenging for Canadians without a family doctor, and Veterans are no exception. For Veterans, having a family doctor is often essential to navigate Veterans Affairs Canada benefits, as assessments, referrals, and documentation require a physician’s involvement. Unfortunately, many Veterans leaving the Canadian Armed Forces face additional hurdles when they find themselves without primary care.In this episode, retired Lieutenant-General Jean-Marc Lanthier joins us to shed light on the release process from the Canadian Armed Forces and discuss a key service designed to support Veterans without family doctors. Tune in to learn how Veterans can access the care they need during this critical transition.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Welcome back to The Most Painful Podcast! We’re wrapping up our Live from Invictus series, bringing you one last inspiring conversation from the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, BC. Today, I have the great opportunity to speak with Oleksandr Androschuk, an athlete competing with the Ukrainian team. He shares his journey of resilience, the challenges of preparing for the Games, and what it means to represent his country on the international stage. From training to competition, Oleksandr’s story is one of determination, strength, and the unbreakable Invictus spirit.
Thank you for joining us for this special series. Stay tuned for more episodes of The Most Painful Podcast!
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Welcome back to The Most Painful Podcast! We're continuing our Live from Invictus series, bringing you exclusive conversations straight from the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, BC. In this episode, I had the chance to sit down with Marie-Cécile Boeuf, a French athlete with an incredible story to tell. Competing in Skeleton, one of the most extreme winter sports, she shares a hair-raising account of what it’s like to race headfirst down an icy bobsled track at breakneck speeds. From the adrenaline rush to the mental and physical challenges, Marie takes us inside this thrilling event and what it means to compete on the Invictus stage.Stay tuned for more powerful stories from Live from Invictus!
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Welcome back to The Most Painful Podcast! We're continuing our Live from Invictus series, bringing you exclusive conversations straight from the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, BC. In this episode, I had an unexpected but incredible reunion with Bruce Thompson—we discovered that we had served together in the same unit years ago. Bruce is now dedicating his time to supporting fellow Veterans through his work with Veterans Connect, an Edmonton-based organization focused on mental health and peer support. We discuss the challenges Veterans face, the importance of staying connected, and the work being done to ensure no Veteran struggles alone.Stay tuned for more powerful stories from Live from Invictus!
Veterans Connect - https://veteransconnect.ca/
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Welcome back to The Most Painful Podcast! We're continuing our Live from Invictus series, bringing you exclusive conversations straight from the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, BC. In this episode, we sit down with Clara John from the Liìote Nation, who carries a deep-rooted background in traditional medicine passed down from her uncle. Clara shares her personal experiences with the effects of traditional healing practices and their role in health and well-being. Join us as we explore the intersection of ancestral wisdom and modern recovery, and how these practices continue to support Veterans and athletes alike.Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Live from Invictus!
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Welcome back to The Most Painful Podcast! We're continuing our Live from Invictus series, bringing you exclusive conversations straight from the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, BC. In this episode, we sit down with Igor Khoeodylo, the medic for the Ukrainian Invictus team. As a former combat medical lead and past Invictus athlete, Igor brings a unique perspective on both the battlefield and the competition. Join us as we discuss his journey, the resilience of Ukrainian athletes, and the vital role of medical support in adaptive sports.Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Live from Invictus!
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Welcome back to The Most Painful Podcast! We're continuing our Live from Invictus series, bringing you exclusive conversations straight from the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, BC.
In this episode, we sit down with Senator Rebecca Patterson, a former Rear Admiral with the Canadian Armed Forces and now a Senator focusing on defence and Veteran policy. Join us as we discuss her transition from military leadership to policy making, her advocacy for Veterans, and how initiatives like the Invictus Games are making a difference.Stay tuned for more insightful conversations from Live from Invictus!
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Welcome to a special edition of The Most Painful Podcast! We're coming to you live from the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, BC, bringing you exclusive conversations with leaders, athletes, and changemakers.
In this episode, recorded on the first day of competition, we sit down with Helen Helliwell, CEO of the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham, UK. Join us as we discuss the impact of the Games, what’s ahead for 2027, and how these events continue to inspire resilience and recovery through sport.Stay tuned for more episodes from our Live from Invictus series!
Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 - https://www.invictusgamesfoundation.org/invictus-games/birmingham-2027
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Can cold water therapy improve conditions like chronic pain or inflammation, which impact overall health? Emerging studies suggest it may have benefits for physical recovery and wellness. To explore this topic, we’re joined by Andrew Thomas, a former Canadian Forces physiotherapist and now a civilian practitioner, who has both used and studied the effects of cold-water therapy.
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A 2020 study by Megan Nichole Poole, published in the Journal of Military, Veteran and Family Health, highlighted that Canadian female veterans face distinct physical and mental health challenges compared to their male peers and women in the general population.
Despite these findings, gender-specific issues remain under-researched, echoing long-standing anecdotal evidence.In June 2024, the Invisible No More: A Gender-Based Analysis of Women Veterans' Issues report by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs presented recommendations addressing these unique challenges.
Joining the conversation in this episode are retired Captain Hélène LeScelleur and retired Sergeant Anouk Beauvais, who share their experiences and insights as Canadian veterans.
Women Veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces and Royal Canadian Mounted Police: A scoping review - https://utppublishing.com/doi/full/10.3138/jmvfh-2021-0020 (Megan Nichole Poole)
Invisible No More. The Experiences of Canadian Women Veterans - https://www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Committee/441/ACVA/Reports/RP13177333/acvarp15/acvarp15-e.pdf
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Many people living with chronic pain often feel isolated and misunderstood, even by those closest to them. But what happens when your family doctor doesn't fully grasp or believe your experience? This can add frustration to an already challenging journey.
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Andrea Furlan, a renowned pain specialist based in Toronto and author of 8 Steps to Conquer Chronic Pain. Dr. Furlan shares her insights and strategies to navigate these situations, ensuring your voice is heard and your pain is better understood.
Dr. Andrea Furlan’s 8 Steps to Conquer Chronic Pain - https://www.doctorandreafurlan.com/book
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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In past seasons, we spoke about traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the impacts it can have on the body. A similar issue that people may be aware about is brain fog. But what is brain fog and how does it impact quality of life? Ronessa Dass, who just completed a research project on brain fog, joins Tom Hoppe today to discuss this topic.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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In this episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Caelin Nadin to discuss how adaptability, acceptance and self regulation can help manage chronic pain. Caelin will discuss how understanding and identifying signs of dysregulation can help you regain control over your body and mind. As well, Caelin will talk about how to discover the importance of developing a personalized set of strategies to promote balance, reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Welcome back to season five of The Most Painful Podcast!
In this episode, we dive into a topic that's crucial not only for Veterans but also for clinicians, researchers, and Veteran families. Accessing health benefits for service-related injuries requires Veterans to have an approved pension condition with Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), and the process can be overwhelming. Joining Tom Hoppe on this show is Harold Leduc, a former member of the Veterans Affairs Review and Appeal Board. Harold has adjudicated over 5,000 cases and served as an expert witness before Parliamentary and Senate committees. He has also advised government officials on Veteran benefits and legislation. Known for his deep knowledge of Veterans' rights and policies, Harold is here to shed light on this complex process.
Veterans Affairs Canada compensation https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/mental-and-physical-health/mental-health-and-wellness/compensation-illness-or-injury
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Research shows exercise is the best medicine for a healthy body and longevity.
In past episodes, we have had experts say “motion is lotion” as being active is important to help with pain and they have talked about the importance of strength training to allow a person to do more activities in their life. Cardio and respiratory fitness are very important for health and longevity, but what is the best way to increase your respiratory and cardio function? One method is high-intensity training or HIIT.
On this episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr Martin Gibala, Professor at the School of Kinesiology at Macmaster University in Hamilton.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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In past episodes, we had discussed the topic of osteoarthritis. Similar to that topic is arthritis. Arthritis has an impact on a lot of people and we have had many requests from our audience for more information about arthritis and how to better manage it.
On this episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr. Max Sun, Professor at the University of British Colombia and a Pain Specialist.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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On the podcast, we have had many experts talk on topics of pain, wellness, fitness and many other topics. Much of what they talk about comes from research.
If you are looking online for information to help manage your pain, how do you know if that information is correct and how does research information get to the end users? Knowledge mobilization is a method to disseminate research information.
On this episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Deb Denman, Director of Knowledge Mobilization for the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence.
CPCoE Knowledge Mobilization - https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/knowledge-mobilization
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Suffering from chronic pain can be a lonely journey that can impact our mental and emotional health. Peer support has proven to help people connect, exchange ideas, improve mental health, and establish a community.
Today, Tom Hoppe is joined by Virginia McIntyre, President of People in the Pain Network to speak to us about how their peer program can help people suffering from chronic pain.
People in Pain Network - https://www.pipain.com/
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Opioids are one treatment for post-surgery pain management. As we have heard in the media, opioids may have a negative impact on a patient. That sparks the question; what other treatments are available to help manage post-surgical pain?
One such treatment is the use of hypnosis. On this episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr. Brittany Rosenbloom, a clinical and health psychologist and associate scientist at the Toronto Academic Pain Medicine Institute and co-author of a research project studying the effectiveness of hypnosis to help with post-surgical pain.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Purpose and identity are important in the biopsychosocialspirtitual model of chronic pain. In previous seasons, we spoke about the similarities between military Veterans and professional athletes, especially when it comes to identity, mindset and transition when leaving the service or sport.
But what are some organizations doing to help their athletes transition and deal with chronic pain management? On this episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Brian Ramsey, Executive Director of the Canadian Football League (CFL) Players Association (CFLPA).
CFLPA - https://cflpa.com/
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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In previous seasons, we have covered the topic of yoga and how yoga can help manage pain. But what about trauma-informed yoga? How can it help people who struggle with emotional stress from past traumatic events. On this episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Lori Taylor, a trauma informed yoga and fitness instructor.
Lori Taylor - https://loritaylor.ca/
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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In most of our previous episodes, we have had experts talk about chronic pain in adults, but what about chronic pain in children? There is a high number of children suffering from pain, but what resources are available for children? One organization is Solutions for Kids in Pain (SKIP). On today's episode Tom Hoppe is joined by Katie Birnie, an Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary and the Associate Scientific Director for Solutions for Kids in Pain.
SKIP - https://kidsinpain.ca/
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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On this episode of The Most Painful Podcast, Tom Hoppe speaks with Dr. Andrea Furlan, Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto and Staff Physician and Senior Scientist at Toronto Rehabilitation Institute. Dr. Furlan has a book called "The Eight Steps to Deal with Chronic Pain" which helps patients climb and conquer that mountain of chronic pain.
Dr. Andrea Furlan - https://www.doctorandreafurlan.com/
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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On today's show, Tom Hoppe is joined by Randy Turner, a former Joint Task Force 2 (JTF2) Assaulter, retired Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competitor and currently a coach for strength and conditioning. Randy will speak about the importance of personalized strength training for everyday conditioning and improved mobility as well as what is a tactical athlete.\
More information on Direct Action - https://directactions.ca/
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This episode of The Most Painful Podcast focuses on post surgical pain.
What is post surgical pain, rates of post surgical pain, psychological interventions, and some helpful tips for those who are going through post surgical pain.
Joining Tom Hoppe for this topic is Dr. Max Slepian, Assistant Professor at the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine at the University of Toronto. Also, Dr. Hance Clarke, who is also an Assistant Professor at the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine at the University of Toronto.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Welcome back to season four of The Most Painful Podcast! We are excited to bring you some exciting guests and topics for this upcoming season.
Today's episode we are going to talk about occupational therapists (OT) and what their role is in pain management. If someone is struggling with pain, what does an occupational therapist do to help people improve their well being and overall health?
Tom Hoppe is joined by John Secen, who is an OT at the DeGroote Pain Centre in Hamilton, Ontario as well as John Brown, a Veteran who will share his story of how an OT can help people with pain.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Many Veterans suffer from transition, chronic pain, finding new purpose, losing community, and losing hope. We also see similarities with civilians who live with chronic pain.
To aid with these problems, programs have been designed to help Veterans. On today's episode, Tom Hoppe will discuss a program he is involved with called the Military Veteran Alpine Challenge.
He will be joined by three participants from the hike; Dr. Lindsay Rite, Synika Gee and Lauren O'Grady.
More information on the Military Veteran Alpine Challenge - https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/posts/canadian-military-veterans-bring-awareness-and-education-to-chronic-pain-through-annual-hike-event
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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The 2019 Life After Service Study* shows Canadian Veterans suffer from chronic pain twice that of the Canadian population. The study also indicates women Veterans suffer from chronic pain twice that of male Veterans. But, how does pain impact women in service compared to men?
To explore this topic in more depth, Tom Hoppe is joined by Luc J. Hébert, host of the French version of The Most Painful Podcast, and Hélène Le Scelleur, Co-Chair for the CPCoE Advisory Council for Veterans who is completing her Ph.D. on military identity.
Other resources mentioned:
*https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/about-vac/research/research-directorate/publications/reports/lass-well-being-2020
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Having access to good pain management in a clinic is important to help a person living with chronic pain. However, if you do not have a pain clinic in your area or cannot get access to a clinic, what are some options available to you to help with your pain?
On today's episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Rosemary Wilson from Queens University and Racheal Bosma from Women’s College and Toronto University to talk about a research project on virtual care while waiting for interpersonal care.
Other resources mentioned:
Power Over Pain - www.poweroverpain.ca
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Strength training helps maintain muscle mass, helps with balance, mobility, and longevity. However, when someone suffers from chronic pain how does that person do strength training in a safe manner? On this episode of The Most Painful Podcast, host Tom Hoppe is joined by Leroy Ho, a physiotherapist, to help us understand the proper way to strength train when suffering from chronic pain.
Other resources mentioned:
Season 2 Episode 7- Intentional Breathing with Dr. Abhimanyu Sud https://www.spreaker.com/episode/52705961
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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We know that Veterans live with chronic pain at twice the rate of the general population. One form of chronic pain that both Veterans and civilians live with is osteoarthritis. But, what can you do to treat or help people have a better quality of life if they have osteoarthritis? On todays episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr. Eugene Maida who is with the Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at McMaster University.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Veterans may be familiar with the term Traumatic Brain Injury or TBI with cases being linked to overseas deployment and roadside blasts, but what is a TBI? How does it impact a person? Is a TBI the same as a concussion? On this episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Lyn Turkstra who is speech language pathologist and is conducting research about TBI and concussions in Veterans.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Back in season 1, episode 2, we spoke about cannabis and if it's effective in the management of chronic pain.
On this episode, Tom Hoppe is joined once again by Dr. Jason Busse who has just completed research comparing opioids to cannabis in terms of their success when helping manage chronic pain treatments.
Listen to Season 1 Episode 2: Is Cannabis an effective treatment for chronic pain?
https://www.spreaker.com/episode/51855162
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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As Veterans and Canadian citizens, we are aware of the situation and treatment of chronic pain of Veterans in the Canadian system. But what about other countries?
In season one, episode 10, we spoke to Eric Schumacher, a retired US Army surgeon general, about how the USVA is changing the way they treat chronic pain for Veterans.
Now, we look to the United Kingdom. On today's episode, Tom Hoppe is joined by Dominic Aldington who is a pain physician in England and will talk about what the UK is doing for its Veterans.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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When someone suffers from chronic pain they may, look for alternative ways to manage the pain. Yoga is one of those ways, but does it really help? On today’s show, we will discuss the scientific evidence for yoga as pain management. Host Tom Hoppe is joined by Neil Pearson a physiotherapist and adjunct professor at University of British Columbia.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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After the buzzer goes and its time to hang up your jersey, what comes next? On The Most Painful Podcast season three season premiere, Tom Hoppe is joined by Leo Rautins, former NBA player and current Canadian broadcaster for the Toronto Raptors, along with Cameron Gaunce, a current professional hockey player.
Tom discusses the similarities between military and athlete identity and why it is important for athletes and Veterans to discuss transition and mindset after their careers are over.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Catch Cameron on The Most Painful Podcast season two!
On the ice and in service – Athlete and Military Identity https://www.spreaker.com/episode/51886482
Get ready to continue the journey into the world of chronic pain in the Veteran community as we gear up for Season 3 of The Most Painful Podcast! In this upcoming season, host Tom Hoppe dives deep into intriguing topics that promise to challenge conventional wisdom.
Ever wondered about the science behind yoga and its potential to alleviate chronic pain? Join us as we unravel the mysteries and explore whether yoga is truly a game-changer for Canadian Veterans and other chronic pain patients.
We’re bringing you the latest research fresh off the press, comparing opioids and cannabis. Is cannabis emerging as a formidable contender in the realm of pain management, potentially rivaling opioids? Prepare for an eye-opening discussion that could reshape your perspective.
And, as we cross the pond, we’ll delve into how chronic pain is managed in the UK. What lessons can we learn from across the Atlantic, and are there innovative approaches that could benefit patients worldwide?
Join us in Season 3 for knowledge, insights, and groundbreaking discoveries. Stay tuned, because The Most Painful Podcast is back, and we’re ready to change the way you think about chronic pain.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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The Most Painful Podcast is produced for the Chronic Pain Center of Excellence by Story Studio Network
Dans ce second balado de la saison 2, nous recevons un invité bien spécial qui n’est pas encore vétéran et qui est en service actif au sein des FAC et qui connait très bien ce que représente la douleur et comment elle peut avoir un impact considérable sur la qualité de vie d’un militaire. Je m’entretiens avec le LCol Simon Mailloux, présentement en échange au Pentagone comme officier d’état-major avec le Joint Staff américain. Lors de son premier déploiement en Afghanistan en 2007, le jeune officier Mailloux est victime d’un engin explosif improvisé et il perd des hommes sous son commandement. Lui-même sévèrement blessé, il subit une amputation à une jambe et de multiples blessures. Après une longue réadaptation et plusieurs mois d’entrainement ardu, il est redéployé à nouveau en zone de combat en 2009. Dans cette balado, nous discutons avec le LCol Mailloux de sa façon de gérer au quotidien ses douleurs et de ses stratégies pour demeurer aussi actif physiquement. Nous abordons également les thèmes suivants : la culture militaire et son impact sur la gestion de la douleur et le lien de confiance avec les cliniciens qui la traite, la perception de ce qu’est un vétéran en 2023 selon la population en générale et l’importance de l’identité militaire mais aussi et surtout l'impact de notre propre culture civile sur notre identité militaire.
Hébergé par Luc J. Hébert. Écoutez l'épisode 'Francophone Military Identity with Luc Hébert' pour rencontrer Luc.
https://www.spreaker.com/episode/53456776
Pour nous donner votre avis sur l'émission ou avoir plus d'informations, consultez notre site internet https://www.veteransdouleurchronique.ca/
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Pour commencer cette première saison de baladodiffusions en français, quoi de mieux que de suggérer aux vétérans et vétéranes des façons non pharmacologiques de gérer la douleur!
Dans cette balado, nous discutons avec Nathan Augeard, physiothérapeute, étudiant au Doctorat à l’Université McGill à Montréal, de l’importance de la réadaptation et de la physiothérapie dans la prise en charge de la douleur et comment chaque personne peut essayer de gérer sa douleur et en minimiser les impacts dans son quotidien. Nous abordons également la notion d’un modèle utilisé en réadaptation qui tient compte de la personne dans sa globalité soit l’utilisation du modèle biopsychosocial et la manière dont les physiothérapeutes l'utilisent pour l'évaluation et la planification du traitement de la douleur. Et cette balado conclut sur l’importance pour le physiothérapeute, dans le traitement de la douleur, de travailler en partenariat avec la personne.
Hébergé par Luc J. Hébert. Écoutez l'épisode 'Francophone Military Identity with Luc Hébert' pour rencontrer Luc.
https://www.spreaker.com/episode/53456776
Pour nous donner votre avis sur l'émission ou avoir plus d'informations, consultez notre site internet https://www.veteransdouleurchronique.ca/
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Every military member in Canada goes through the same basic training and methodology, which forms a unique military identity and culture. But how does your civilian culture also impact your military identity? Today on the show, host Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr. Luc J. Hébert to speak about francophone military identity and overall military identity and culture when it comes to research.
We are excited to announce that Luc will be hosting our next two episodes of The Most Painful Podcast fully in French!
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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On today's episode, host Tom Hoppe speaks with Monica Szeliga, a nutritionist and registered dietician, on why food is fuel. They discuss the importance of not only what we eat, but also how we eat and why what we eat can affect our overall health, including our physical, mental and emotional well-being.
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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When someone is suffering from chronic pain, movement has been proven to be helpful in conditioning, recovery, and overall improvement in health. What needs to be considered is what is safe movement and how do you move when you are suffering from chronic pain? We need to make Veterans aware they must change how they approach physical training and that movement may be completely different from the movements they've learned in service. On today's show, host Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr. Lindsay Rite, the director of Allied Health at CHANGEPain Clinic in Vancouver.
CHANGEPain Clinic https://www.changepain.ca/
For more about the Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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No matter what we are doing; eating, sleeping, walking or talking - we are breathing. Our breath is with us at every moment of our life. On today's episode, host Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr. Abhimanyu Sud, who explains the importance of yogic breathing when living with chronic pain.
Included in this episode: An ujjayi breath exercise you can try at home.
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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On today's episode, host Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr. Rob Whitley, Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at McGill University, to speak about the impact the media has on Veterans who suffer from chronic pain. Dr. Whitley also speaks about the role of cannabis in treatment of chronic pain and the lack of knowledge within the healthcare system.
Watch the 'Joint Forces: Cannabis Use, Chronic Pain and PTSD among Canadian Veterans' series on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKGu0ZIrR7Zy8wcPwM9Qekx2Mx5BqQsfb
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Mindfulness can play a key role in managing your chronic pain, specifically when it comes to orienteering your thoughts and emotions during your day to day activities to help manage your health. Today on the show, Tom Hoppe hosts Dr. Rahul Gupta to speak about physical and mental well being.
Exploring the connection between mental health and chronic pain. In this and the previous episode, we will be speaking to experts on the connection between chronic pain and mental health.
On today's episode, host Tom Hoppe welcomes Dr. Don Richardson - clinical psychiatrist working with Veterans and is currently conducting a research project on the connection between pain and mental health.
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Mental health can impact chronic pain. In the next two episodes, we will be speaking to experts on the connection between chronic pain and mental health. On today's episode, host Tom Hoppe welcomes Fardous Hosseiny, the CEO of Atlas.
Fardous Hosseiny shares about what ATLAS is and why it was established, the kind of research are Atlas is involved in, how Veterans are impacted and what resources are available to them.
For more on the Atlas Institude for Veterans and Families visit https://atlasveterans.ca/
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Chronic pain can impact sleep and we have heard from experts that good quality sleep is important for our health. So, if someone is suffering from chronic pain what can they do to get better sleep? To talk to us about this today is Allison Gaudet, who is a physiotherapist who works with people suffering from chronic pain.
Allison Gaudet MScPT, MCIScPT, BScKin – Physiotherapist and Co-Chair, Advisory Council for Veterans
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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In our first season, we talked to experts on the challenges of military identity on the healing journey for Veterans suffering from chronic pain. Military identity and mindset are important to work in a regimental institutionalized setting. Professional athletes have some of the same identity challenges. In the US, there is a program where professional athletes and Veterans work together to learn from each other’s challenges. What can Veterans learn from professional athletes to help them transition? Today on the show we have Cameron Gaunce who is a professional athlete and has insight into the identity challenges of athletes.
Cameron Gaunce – Professional Hockey Player with Ontario Reign
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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From our past show, the audience has provided some great feedback on how the information on this show has helped them. We have focused on chronic pain management in Canada, but how is chronic pain managed in other countries? Are the treatments the same? The US VA (United States Department of Veteran's Affairs) has changed their approach to how they manage chronic pain and to talk about this today, we are joined by Retired Surgeon General from the US Army, Eric Schoomaker.
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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With so many veterans and family members suffering from chronic pain, how does sex and gender impact the research, assessment, and treatment of chronic pain?Dr. Stacey Ritz, PhD, MEd – Associate Professor, Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences and Assistant Dean, BHSc Program, McMaster University.
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Suffering from chronic pain can have a severe impact on a person’s quality of life. Psychedelics are being talked about as a treatment to help people suffering from chronic pain, but does it really work? To talk about the effectiveness of psychedelics I am joined by Dr. Michael Verbora from Macmaster University, welcome to the show, and Bruno Guevremount a Veteran and consultant to the psychedelics industry welcome to the show and Arron Victory a veteran and consultant to the psychedelics welcome to the show.Bruno Guevremont – Veteran and member of the Advisory Council for VeteransDr. Michael Verbora MBA, MD – Chief Medical Officer at Aleafia Health and Assistant Professor at McMaster University
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Many veterans and many listeners to this show suffer from back pain.
Many have asked does surgery help with back pain? Or are there other therapies which may help with back pain vs surgery?
To help answer this question Tom Hoppe is joined by Dr. Brian Drew
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Research has shown veterans who suffer with chronic pain may also suffer with an OSI injury. When one suffers from chronic pain and an operational stress injury it can severally impact quality of life and create stress within the family.
On today’s show Tom Hoppe is joined by Steve Critchley founder of CanPraxis a non for profit organization helping veterans and their families who are struggling with chronic pain and OSI.
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Military members have all their healthcare needs taken care of while they are in service, but what happens when the members leave the military? How smooth is the transition to the civilian medical system? especially with a shortage of family doctors? How do veterans navigate the medical system to ensure they get the care they need for service-related injuries? What do civilian clinicians need to understand about this transition to better help their veteran patients? To help answer those questions we are joined by two guests veteran Brad White and Dr. Abhimanyu Sud.
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Chronic pain is pain that typically persists for 90 days and can also be associated with with a procedure or injury when healing fails to progress as expected. On this episode of the Most Painful Podcast we discuss inter-disciplinary pain clinics. Our guests are Dr. Ramesh Zacharias – CEO, President and Medical Director at the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans Dr. Brenda Lau – Founder and Medical Director at Change Pain
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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When a person gets into the military culture, their identity changes, their mindset changes to mission-first, self-last. How does that impact how they manage and view chronic pain? In this episode of The Most Painful Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Melanie Noel – Associate Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Calgary, and Hélène Le Scelleur – Veteran and Recipient of the 2021 Capacity Building Initiative.
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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People who live with chronic pain suffer greatly, and it impacts their quality of life. There are many treatments available and medications that will help people with chronic pain. One that’s been talked about over a number of years, is cannabis. But does cannabis actually work? Is it effective? To help answer these questions, we’re joined by two guests: Dr. Jason Busse – Research Director at the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans and Bruno Guevremont – Veteran and member of the Advisory Council of Veterans.
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Many Canadians are living with chronic pain. And chronic pain can impact a person's quality of life. Studies have shown that Canadian military Veterans suffer from chronic pain twice that of the Canadian population. Why is that? This episode of the Most Painful Podcast will dive into the research and, to do so, we talk to Dr. Ramesh Zacharias, who is the CEO of the Chronic Pain Center of Excellence for Veterans and the medical director of a pain clinic in Hamilton, Ontario.
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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Tom Hoppe is your host of the MOST PAINFUL PODCAST.
“I'm a veteran myself and I've been involved with veteran advocacy for 18 plus years. I got involved with the chronic pain center of excellence just as they were starting up. And they were talking about paying navigators or coaches, which I've done some work with veterans. That's how our relationship is. The room was full of researchers. Clinicians really cared about veterans and who wanted to see those markers move through research and evidence-based research veterans suffer twice that of the civilian population when it comes to chronic pain. And why? We’ve got to take a step back and really just say, well, what's it mean to be a soldier, culture and identity? Is that the impact that affects veterans, that thought bank, their military mindset of mission-first, team, regiment and self last is very different. And in order to complete the mission, one must push through. So, we become numb to pain. Mission First and self-last really ties into the chronic pain. Knowledge is power. So, through education, they will be able to better manage their chronic pain. We’re going to talk about that on the show. How do you manage your chronic pain? And, as researchers, we have to understand that veterans have a different culture. And when they're doing research, it can’t be viewed through a civilian lens. Do it through the lens of a veteran. It's not the same as a civilian’s. It's not the same as first responders’. And that is important to understand and same with the clinicians. When they have a veteran walk into their clinic, it’s important to understand the military culture. You don't want to say anything about your injuries, because it can impact your career. It could impact how you're viewed within your unit. And on top of that, some veterans who do not fully understand the Veterans’ Affairs system may also not want to disclose because it could impact their benefits. So, this education is a 360 approach. It's the veteran, it's the researcher and the clinicians. And by doing that, perhaps we can provide a better outcome for them. Because the veteran, as with any type of healthcare, the patient. In this case, the veteran has a responsibility to meet the clinician halfway to do their part. And we can do that through education."
For more about Chronic Pain Centre of Exellence visit https://www.veteranschronicpain.ca/
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The MOST PAINFUL PODCAST is produced for the Chronic Pain Center of Excellence by Story Studio Network and iContact Productions.