Episodes

  • Brain Talks: The Complexities of Chronic Pain with Aaron Jones, MPT

    Brain Talks: The Complexities of Chronic Pain with Aaron Jones, MPT
    Feb 4 2025
    In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain we are joined by Aaron Jones to discuss the intricate world of chronic pain, exploring how it affects every facet of life—from physical limitations to emotional resilience. We take a closer look at the often-overlooked connection between chronic pain and sleep disruptions, shedding light on the challenges of getting restorative rest when pain feels relentless. Our discussion also features a deep dive into Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a complex and often misunderstood condition that adds unique layers to the experience of chronic pain. Aaron is a physiotherapist working in Victoria BC with a special interest in EDS. With insights including personal stories, and practical strategies, this conversation aims to educate, validate, and empower listeners navigating these challenges. Whether you’re living with chronic pain, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the science and lived experience of these conditions, this episode offers a compassionate and insightful perspective. Join us as we unpack the realities, break down the myths, and explore pathways to hope and healing. Connect with Aaron Jones: Aaron earned a Master Degree in Physiotherapy from the University of Sydney, Australia. Prior to that, he graduated with a Bachelor degree in Exercise Science and Rehabilitation from the University of Wollongong, Australia. Aaron has been a registered practicing physiotherapist throughout Australia, in New York City and right here in British Columbia. Aaron is passionate about musculoskeletal physiotherapy with a special focus in chronic pain, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Functional Neurological Disorder. You can find Aaron at Acacia Health in Victoria BC Acacia Health Website Articles written by Aaron Jones Connect with me: Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: @the_well_nurtured_brain Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com Resources: Kent, P., Haines, T., O'Sullivan, P., Smith, A., Campbell, A., Schutze, R., Attwell, S., Caneiro, J. P., Laird, R., O'Sullivan, K., McGregor, A., Hartvigsen, J., Lee, D. A., Vickery, A., Hancock, M., & RESTORE trial team (2023). Cognitive functional therapy with or without movement sensor biofeedback versus usual care for chronic, disabling low back pain (RESTORE): a randomised, controlled, three-arm, parallel group, phase 3, clinical trial. Lancet (London, England), 401(10391), 1866–1877. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00441-5 Oslo Chronic Fatigue Consortium, Alme, T. N., Andreasson, A., Asprusten, T. T., Bakken, A. K., Beadsworth, M. B., Boye, B., Brodal, P. A., Brodwall, E. M., Brurberg, K. G., Bugge, I., Chalder, T., Due, R., Eriksen, H. R., Fink, P. K., Flottorp, S. A., Fors, E. A., Jensen, B. F., Fundingsrud, H. P., Garner, P., … Wyller, V. B. B. (2023). Chronic fatigue syndromes: real illnesses that people can recover from. Scandinavian journal of primary health care, 41(4), 372–376. https://doi.org/10.1080/02813432.2023.2235609 Kourbanova, K., Alexandre, C., & Latremoliere, A. (2022). Effect of sleep loss on pain-New conceptual and mechanistic avenues. Frontiers in neuroscience, 16, 1009902. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2022.1009902 https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/ https://www.thelancet.com/series/low-back-pain https://potsfoundation.org.au/dr-andrew-maxwell-keynote-speaker-pots-unmasked-2022/ Dr. Pradeep Chopra: Connecting Dots in EDS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zd1K2EL9VjI https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4681035/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553027/ https://www.thespidertool.com/ https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/research-update-the-spider-a-multisystemic-symptom-impact-tool-for-people-with-hypermobility-related-disorders-initial-validation-in-adolescents/ 2023 Chronic Pain and Fatigue - Dr. Helen Cohen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NjE_X46hkY https://karger.com/pps/article/90/1/11/294736 https://drricarseneau.ca/videos The Role and Treatment of Autonomic Dysfunction in EDS-Associated Sleep Disorders - Dr. Alan Pocinki https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9qwORNmMUks Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating!
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    52 mins
  • System Malfunction: Navigating the Hidden Impact of Dysautonomia

    System Malfunction: Navigating the Hidden Impact of Dysautonomia
    Jan 21 2025

    Join Dr. Pamela Hutchison, in our first official episode of season 2. In this episode she uncovers the mysterious world of dysautonomia and its connection to long COVID and POTS. In this enlightening episode of The Well Nurtured Brain, Dr. Hutchison breaks down the complexities of the autonomic nervous system going awry, revealing how its dysfunction can lead to a wide range of challenging symptoms. From understanding the basics of blood pressure regulation to exploring examples of those affected, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating the lingering effects of long COVID. Tune in to uncover the hidden impacts on your nervous system.

    To access bonus content please subscribe to our newsletter via website listed below.

    Connect with me:

    Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

    The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d
    Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com
    Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com

    Episode Reference:

    Vernino S, Bourne KM, Stiles LE, et al. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS): State of the science and clinical care from a 2019 National Institutes of Health Expert Consensus Meeting - Part 1. Auton Neurosci. 2021;235:102828. doi:10.1016/j.autneu.2021.102828

    https://www.autonomicneuroscience.com/article/S1566-0702(21)00058-8/fulltext

    Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating!
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    38 mins
  • The Opportunities in Struggle: A Sneak Peek at Season 2

    The Opportunities in Struggle: A Sneak Peek at Season 2
    Jan 7 2025

    Welcome back to The Well Nurtured Brain!

    In this exciting Season 2 premiere, Dr. Pamela Hutchison, a seasoned naturopathic doctor with 25 years of experience, returns to share updates and insights into brain, mental, and neurological health.

    After a challenging year, Dr. Pam reflects on the opportunities that can arise from life's struggles and previews an enriching lineup of topics and guest experts. From demystifying dysautonomia and exploring exercise's impact on multiple sclerosis to uncovering the science behind brain health supplements, this season promises valuable content for your journey to optimal health. Tune in and discover how to turn challenges into growth.

    Connect with me:

    Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

    The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d
    Website: www.TheWellNuturedBrain.com
    Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com

    Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating!
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    7 mins
  • Brain Talks: Navigating Blood Sugar with Dr. Jaime

    Brain Talks: Navigating Blood Sugar with Dr. Jaime
    Dec 27 2023

    In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain Dr. Pamela Hutchison sits down with Dr. Jaime de Melo, a fellow naturopathic doctor and the co-founder of Evolve Medical, to discuss the intricate world of blood sugar regulation and its profound impact on our brain health. From the basics of insulin resistance to the far-reaching consequences of blood sugar dysregulation, Dr. Jaime shares invaluable insights and practical advice on maintaining balance, and how this has far reaching effects on brain health over time.

    Whether you're navigating diabetes, seeking preventive measures, or simply curious about optimizing your health, this episode could transform the way you think about your body and your health.

    About Dr. Jaime de Melo ND

    Dr. Jaime de Melo (he/him) is passionate about helping people learn to self-manage chronic health conditions through lifestyle medicine. He is a co-founder of Evolve Medical, a company empowering people to live healthier and happier lives through technology, behavioural science and customized lifestyle medicine.

    Connect with Evolve Medical and Dr. Jaime:

    Evolve Medical https://www.evolvemedical.co/

    Acacia Health https://acaciahealth.ca/team/jaime-de-melo/

    Connect with Dr. Pamela Hutchison ND:

    Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

    The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d

    Website: www.TheWellNurturedBrain.com

    Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com

    Episode References:

    Kleinridders A, Cai W, Cappellucci L, Ghazarian A, Collins WR, Vienberg SG, Pothos EN, Kahn CR. Insulin resistance in brain alters dopamine turnover and causes behavioral disorders. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2015 Mar 17;112(11):3463-8. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1500877112. Epub 2015 Mar 2. PMID: 25733901; PMCID: PMC4371978.

    He D, Aleksic S. Is it time to repurpose geroprotective diabetes medications for prevention of dementia? J Am Geriatr Soc. 2023 Jul;71(7):2041-2045. doi: 10.1111/jgs.18405. Epub 2023 May 25. PMID: 37227136; PMCID: PMC10524156.

    Enzinger, C., Fazekas, F., Matthews, P. M., Ropele, S., Schmidt, H., Smith, S., & Schmidt, R. (2005). Risk factors for progression of brain atrophy in aging: six-year follow-up of normal subjects. Neurology, 64(10), 1704–1711. https://doi.org/10.1212/01.WNL.0000161871.83614.BB
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    49 mins
  • Inflammatory Insights: Discussing the possible correlation between inflammation and depression

    Inflammatory Insights: Discussing the possible correlation between inflammation and depression
    Dec 12 2023

    In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain, join Dr. Pamela Hutchison as she geeks out over the intriguing link between inflammation and depression. While discussing the current research, she simplifies the science for easy understanding.

    Expect to revisit this compelling topic in future episodes as more research emerges. Meanwhile, savor the valuable insights shared in this episode – there are some truly enlightening nuggets waiting for you.

    Connect with Dr. Pam:

    Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

    The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d

    Website: www.TheWellNurturedBrain.com

    Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com

    Episode References:

    1. Nedic Erjavec G, Sagud M, Nikolac Perkovic M, et al. Depression: Biological markers and treatment. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. 2021;105:110139. doi:10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110139

    2. Usnich, T., Hauptmann, B., Hanssen, H. et al. Depressive symptoms in Parkinson’s disease are insufficiently but more often treated than in other chronic conditions. npj Parkinsons Dis. 9, 113 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41531-023-00551-8

    3. Kofod J, Elfving B, Nielsen EH, Mors O, Köhler-Forsberg O. Depression and inflammation: Correlation between changes in inflammatory markers with antidepressant response and long-term prognosis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2022;54:116-125. doi:10.1016/j.euroneuro.2021.09.006

    4. Mischoulon D, Dunlop BW, Kinkead B, et al. Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Major Depressive Disorder With High Inflammation: A Randomized Dose-Finding Clinical Trial. J Clin Psychiatry. 2022;
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    35 mins
  • The Leafy Truth: Exploring the Efficacy of Greens Powder

    The Leafy Truth: Exploring the Efficacy of Greens Powder
    Oct 31 2023

    In this episode of the Well Nurtured Brain Dr. Pamela Hutchison ND will compare greens powders to their natural, leafy counterparts.

    Join Dr. Pamela as she explores the pros and cons of both options. Are greens powders truly the ultimate solution for those on-the-go or in need of an extra boost of nutrients, or can nothing replace the goodness of whole, leafy greens?

    Connect with me:

    Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

    The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d

    Website: www.TheWellNurturedBrain.com

    Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com

    Episode References:

    Zhang J, Oxinos G, Maher JH. The effect of fruit and vegetable powder mix on hypertensive subjects: a pilot study. J Chiropr Med. 2009 Sep;8(3):101-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jcm.2008.09.004. PMID: 19703665; PMCID: PMC2732245.

    Nutrients and bioactives in green leafy vegetables and cognitive decline: Prospective study.

    Morris MC, Wang Y, Barnes LL, Bennett DA, Dawson-Hughes B, Booth SL. Neurology. 2018 Jan 16;90(3):e214-e222.

    doi: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000004815.

    Associations of vegetable and fruit consumption with age-related cognitive change.

    Morris MC, Evans DA, Tangney CC, Bienias JL, Wilson RS.

    Neurology. 2006 Oct 24;67(8):1370-6.

    doi: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000240224.38978.d8.
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    25 mins
  • Beyond the Headache: Navigating the Complex Puzzle of Migraines Part 2

    Beyond the Headache: Navigating the Complex Puzzle of Migraines Part 2
    Oct 17 2023

    Welcome to the conclusion of Beyond the Headache: Navigating the Complex Puzzle of Migraines on the Well Nurtured Brain. In our first part of this two part series we discussed the true nature of migraines, their impact on those who suffer from them, and why they're so much more than just a headache.

    In this anticipated final instalment Dr. Pamela Hutchison will guide us through a number of studies that dissect the effectiveness of well known approaches to reducing the pain, frequency and duration of migraines. Some of the results may surprise you!

    Connect with me:

    Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

    The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d

    Website: www.TheWellNurturedBrain.com

    Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com

    Episode References:

    Moskatel, L.S., Zhang, N. Migraine and Diet: Updates in Understanding. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 22, 327–334 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11910-022-01195-6

    Migraine, Brain Glucose Metabolism and the "Neuroenergetic" Hypothesis: A Scoping Review Lorenzo Del Moro 1, Eugenia Rota 2, Elenamaria Pirovano 3, Innocenzo Rainero 4 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2022.02.006

    Tereshko, Y., Dal Bello, S., Di Lorenzo, C., Pez, S., Pittino, A., Sartor, R., Filippi, F., Lettieri, C., Belgrado, E., Garbo, R., Merlino, G., Gigli, G. L., & Valente, M. (2023). 2:1 ketogenic diet and low-glycemic-index diet for the treatment of chronic and episodic migraine: a single-center real-life retrospective study. The journal of headache and pain, 24(1), 95. https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-023-01635-9

    Gazerani P. (2020). Migraine and Diet. Nutrients, 12(6), 1658. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12061658

    Barber, M., & Pace, A. (2020). Exercise and Migraine Prevention: a Review of the Literature. Current pain and headache reports, 24(8), 39. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-020-00868-6

    Lemmens, J., De Pauw, J., Van Soom, T., Michiels, S., Versijpt, J., van Breda, E., Castien, R., & De Hertogh, W. (2019). The effect of aerobic exercise on the number of migraine days, duration and pain intensity in migraine: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.
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    45 mins
  • Brain Talks: Exploring Persistent Pain with Dr. Richard McIlmoyle

    Brain Talks: Exploring Persistent Pain with Dr. Richard McIlmoyle
    Oct 3 2023

    In this episode of The Well Nurtured Brain Dr. Pamela Hutchison is joined by Dr. Richard McIlmoyle, a chiropractor from Victoria with more than two decades of expertise. Together, they discuss the nature of pain and its management, as Dr. Richard shares his perspective on pain as an embodied phenomena.

    About Dr. Richard McIlmoyle:

    Dr Richard McIlmoyle is a chiropractor with over 24 years of experience. He utilizes the most current science regarding pain and biomechanics to guide his treatment, using multiple manual therapies to promote changes with his patients. His goal when treating patients is to maintain or return them to activities that they enjoy, as it is the best supported intervention when it comes to relieving pain (whether that be recent injury or persisting pain.) Understanding that our body is a robust and adaptable system helps the elite athlete to perform at their best and exercisers to enjoy daily activities.

    Treating individuals experiencing persistent pain has become one of his areas of focus, due to its debilitating effects on our population and the poor understanding that most practitioners have of the biopsychosocial framework of pain.

    In the upcoming month, Dr. McIlmoyle will be sharing his expertise in Vancouver, where he'll be instructing on "Trauma and Psychologically Informed Pain Care for Manual and Exercise Therapists." Additionally, in November, he will be conducting a course in Victoria titled "Advanced Pain Care for Practitioners."

    For more information visit his website at https://www.drrichardmcilmoyle.com/

    Connect with Dr. Pamela Hutchison:

    Pamela's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_pamela_hutchison_nd

    The Well Nurtured Brain's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_well_nurtured_brain/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089475401521&mibextid=LQQJ4d

    Website: www.TheWellNurturedBrain.com

    Email: thewellnurturedbrain@gmail.com
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    1 hr and 6 mins