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Do you ever wish for a simple, proven way to quiet pain and anxiety without pills or endless appointments? In this science-backed solo episode, Stacey Roberts reveals the transformative benefits of diaphragmatic breathing and why harnessing this “built-in remedy” could be your life’s most powerful shift. Drawing on research from leading institutions and her own clinic success, Stacey demystifies breathwork, explains how stress amplifies pain, and walks you through a step-by-step exercise you can use anywhere, anytime. Tune in now to break free from pain’s grip, reclaim your body’s resilience, and tap into insights you won’t find on a typical health show. Don’t wait! Your calm, confident self is just one breath away. Timestamped Highlights[00:00:01] – Why pain isn’t just physical: Meet the surprising tool that works every second of your life[00:01:06] – Stacey’s personal meditation story and the “aha” moment that changed her pain forever[00:02:24] – Is relief just placebo, or is science on your side? The critical research most people miss[00:03:17] – Are you trapped in fight-or-flight mode and how can you break free today?[00:04:13] – What’s really happening in your body with diaphragmatic (belly) breathing[00:06:29] – Pain thresholds, stress hormones, and how breath can reset your nervous system[00:07:15] – Try this game-changing breathing exercise right now—Stacey walks you through exact steps[00:10:21] – The secret to activating your parasympathetic system (and why it matters for lasting pain relief)[00:12:11] – Breathwork as daily medicine: How clinicians recommend you build your “pain-resistant” muscles[00:12:45] – Bonus benefits: Why breathwork heals anxiety, sleep, gut issues, and more References:Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. (n.d.). Diaphragmatic breathing. Johns Hopkins MedicineOverview of diaphragmatic (belly) breathing and its role in activating the relaxation response and reducing stress-related pain.U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Diaphragmatic breathing: Assist self-management of pain. VA Whole Health LibraryClinical guidance from the VA Whole Health program on using diaphragmatic breathing as a practical, self-directed tool for pain management.Busch, V., Magerl, W., Kern, U., Haas, J., Hajak, G., & Eichhammer, P. (2012). The effect of deep and

Are you tired of your joints holding you back, or told your only options are pills, injections, or just “living with it?” This episode of The Pain-Free Formula Podcast invites you to ditch the resignation and discover a science-backed pathway to true relief. Host Stacey Roberts, bestselling author and physical therapist, tackles the burning question: what’s the real most effective treatment for arthritis and why has nobody told you? This episode unpacks powerful, surprising insights: why movement (done right) outperforms medications and surgery, how gut health and daily habits can radically change your pain, and what to do if “nothing seems to work.” Want less pain and more control? Don’t wait. Tune in now and stop wasting years on ineffective quick fixes. This episode reveals what truly empowers lasting change, hope, and movement. Listen now before your next appointment or prescription. These practical truths could change your life, and you’ll only hear them here. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Why most people still believe pills and surgery are the “answer” and what they’re missing[00:02:05] – The headline that rewrote Stacey Roberts’s approach: “It’s not a pill or surgery…”[00:04:12] – Your arthritis isn’t just “wear and tear”—discover the unexpected factors that really drive progression[00:06:10] – Rest versus movement—why doing less is making joints worse, not better[00:08:31] – Tried exercise and failed? The secret reason it “doesn’t work” for so many[00:11:31] – The untold story of muscle function: Why knee and joint pain respond to smarter strength[00:14:40] – Real-life success: From “bone on bone” to moving better than ever. Here’s what works[00:18:09] – Gut, food, and “can it really matter?” The proof (and a dramatic personal story)[00:22:59] – Don’t fear arthritis: Science says you have more options than ever and you’re not broken References:Toomey, C. (2026, January 26). The most effective treatment for osteoarthritis isn’t a pill or surgery. SciTechDaily. https://scitechdaily.com/the-most-effective-treatment-for-osteoarthritis-isnt-a-pill-or-surgery/Bennell KL, Wrigley TV, Hunt MA, Lim BW, Hinman RS. Update on the role of muscle in the genesis and management of knee osteoarthritis. Rheumatic Disease Clinics of North America, 2013 Feb;39(1):145-76. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rdc.2012.11.003 PMID: 23312414 Important LinksPain-Free Formula Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pain-free-formula/id1802518411span class="ql-ui"

Ever find yourself thinking, “I’m doing everything right, so why does my pain keep coming back?” If pain feels like a stubborn villain sabotaging your workouts, sapping your energy, and making you question your body, you’re not alone. In this empowering solo episode, Stacey Roberts blends science and empathy to unveil the hidden reasons pain lingers after 40, from sneaky hormonal shifts to misunderstood gut triggers and what most PTs never discuss. You’ll discover why “just push through” makes things worse, what actually works to calm an inflamed system, and how to reframe pain as your body’s call for change, not a personal failure. Don’t wait! Every day spent guessing is a day lost to joy. Listen now to unlock hope and next steps that could change everything. This approach is compassionate, practical, and simply not taught anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Why “powering through” your pain may actually set you back for years[00:01:46] – You’re stretching, exercising, doing ALL the right things… so why is your body still screaming?[00:03:13] – What started as an injury may not just be about your muscles or joints anymore—prepare to unlearn what you thought you knew[00:04:41] – How aging unlocks a “layer cake” of inflammation, nervous system sensitivity, and hormonal chaos[00:05:44] – The massive blind spot around hormones—even the cleanest eaters can hurt if this is off[00:07:59] – When standing, food, or your old workouts suddenly unleash pain: what changed, and what you can control[00:09:04] – Eating “healthy” doesn’t guarantee relief: the gut-joint link that’s quietly driving pain[00:13:47] – When exercise hurts instead of helps: breaking the myth of “no pain, no gain” in your 40s and 50s References:Using These Common Painkillers After Surgery May Be Slowing Recovery – New Study Finds. https://scitechdaily.com/using-these-common-painkillers-after-surgery-may-be-slowing-recovery-new-study-finds/ RICE Method – Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/rice-method Laumet, S., Edwards, A. M., Inyang, K. E., & Laumet, G. (2025). Unexpected Role of TNFα Signaling in the Resolution of Postoperative Pain in Mice. Journal of Pain Research. DOI: 10.2147/JPR.S543971 Tazreean, R., Nelson, G., & Twomey, R. (2022). Early mobilization in enhanced recovery after surgery pathways: current evidence and recent advancements. Journal of Comparative Effectiveness Research, 11(2), 121–129. https://doi.org/10.2217/cer-2021-0258 Important Linksspan class="ql-ui"...

Ever find yourself thinking, “I’m doing everything right, so why does my pain keep coming back?” If pain feels like a stubborn villain sabotaging your workouts, sapping your energy, and making you question your body, you’re not alone. In this empowering solo episode, Stacey Roberts blends science and empathy to unveil the hidden reasons pain lingers after 40, from sneaky hormonal shifts to misunderstood gut triggers and what most PTs never discuss. You’ll discover why “just push through” makes things worse, what actually works to calm an inflamed system, and how to reframe pain as your body’s call for change, not a personal failure. Don’t wait! Every day spent guessing is a day lost to joy. Listen now to unlock hope and next steps that could change everything. This approach is compassionate, practical, and simply not taught anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Why “powering through” your pain may actually set you back for years[00:01:46] – You’re stretching, exercising, doing ALL the right things… so why is your body still screaming?[00:03:13] – What started as an injury may not just be about your muscles or joints anymore—prepare to unlearn what you thought you knew[00:04:41] – How aging unlocks a “layer cake” of inflammation, nervous system sensitivity, and hormonal chaos[00:05:44] – The massive blind spot around hormones—even the cleanest eaters can hurt if this is off[00:07:59] – When standing, food, or your old workouts suddenly unleash pain: what changed, and what you can control[00:09:04] – Eating “healthy” doesn’t guarantee relief: the gut-joint link that’s quietly driving pain[00:13:47] – When exercise hurts instead of helps: breaking the myth of “no pain, no gain” in your 40s and 50s Important LinksPain-Free Formula Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pain-free-formula/id1802518411Free eBooks - https://newyouhealthandwellness.com/ebooksBiomechanics: When Movement MattersHeal Your Gut, Heal Your Pain - The Gut Joint Axis: A Missing Link to Joint and Muscle HealthHormones: A Missing Piece in Pain Reliefspan class="ql-ui"...

Do you feel older than you are, battling unexplained muscle or joint pain, and no one gives you a real answer? In this episode, Stacey Roberts pulls back the curtain on statin medications and exposes the newly discovered science that explains why so many people hurt after starting these drugs. With decades of experience as a clinician and functional medicine specialist, Stacey Roberts shares proven, compassionate guidance for anyone caught between heart health and a pain-filled life. You’ll learn about the controversial studies, the revolutionary discovery behind statin-induced pain, and what you can actually do if you need cholesterol support, but pain isn’t the price you want to pay. Listen now for the facts your provider may not have told you because this episode could save you months, even years, of suffering. Do not miss the root-cause answers and next steps only revealed here. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – The pain puzzle: “I didn’t fall… so why am I hurting?”[00:01:34] – Statins, secrecy, and the rising tide of mysterious muscle pain[00:02:54] – Pharma-funded studies, placebo confusion… and the missing answers[00:04:46] – Game-changing breakthrough: The calcium “leak” that links statins to pain[00:06:37] – Why YOU might react: Genes, mitochondria, hormones, and inflammation all collide[00:09:16] – Don’t stop cold turkey: Safer strategies and when to talk to your doctor[00:10:19] – Are “natural statins” or lifestyle shifts enough to help your heart?[00:13:37] – Cholesterol’s misunderstood role and the truth about “good enough” levels[00:14:51] – When pain is real—not “just in your head”—and how to fight for quality of life Resources MentionedRed Yeast Rice and Monacolin KSoluble fiber (psyllium, oat beta glucan)Niacin (vitamin B therapy)Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinol)Cryo-electron microscopy research on statin muscle effects References: Why Do Statins Hurt? Scientists Solve 30-Year...

Are you suffering in silence with pelvic pain or painful sex, believing it’s “normal” or something you just have to tolerate? This episode shatters the stigma and reveals why pleasure—not pain—should be your expectation. Join Stacey Roberts and pelvic health pioneer Heather Jeffcoat for a raw, uplifting conversation packed with practical strategies and science-backed hope. Heather shares what most doctors and patients miss about chronic pain, why specialized pelvic PT matters, and the real roadmap to reclaiming intimacy and vitality. From misunderstood diagnoses to empowering tools, you’ll leave knowing how to advocate for your health and demand better care. Don’t wait for relief. Tune in now to uncover the proven formula for healing that too often gets overlooked. Your breakthrough starts inside this episode. Don’t miss what every patient, partner, and provider deserves to know. Timestamped Highlights [00:00:00] The anxiety-depression-pain loop: how Covid changed everything (and pelvic PT’s explosive growth) [00:05:18] Why Heather gave up sports medicine: the “mill clinic” dilemma and hunger for real connection [00:09:13] Quick fixes aren’t enough: Heather’s early patient struggles and what she wishes she knew [00:11:14] Sex Without Pain: the radical message (and why Heather had to go beyond a pamphlet) [00:14:10] Common doesn’t mean normal—breaking generational silence around intimate pain [00:16:29] Kegels, biofeedback, and why most PT clinics simply aren’t enough [00:19:10] The glute-jaw-pelvic floor connection (yes, jaw tension may fuel your symptoms) [00:22:15] SoftWave breakthroughs: how a single device transformed pelvic therapy (and saved Heather’s hands) [00:29:06] The real next steps if you’re struggling: tools, team, and empowerment About The GuestHeather Jeffcoat, DPT is a nationally recognized pelvic health physical therapist, author, and founder of Fusion Wellness & Femina PT in Southern California. She served as President of the Pelvic Health Academy at the American Physical Therapy Association (2022–2024) and sits on advisory boards for the International Pelvic Pain Society. With two decades’ expertise, Heather’s evidence-based care and book Sex Without Pain: A Self-Treatment Guide are changing lives for patients and reshaping the field itself. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website | Publications | Email Special OfferGet 20% OFF the PDF copy of Heather’s book, Sex Without Pain! Go to sexwithoutpain.com Enter discount code Formula 20 at checkout for 20% off your immediate PDF download! Mentioned ResourcesSex Without Pain (book & resources)SoftWave Therapya...

Ever wonder why you still suffer even with “normal” bloodwork? Tired of symptom-chasing and quick fixes? In this empowering episode, bestselling author and practitioner Stacey Roberts welcomes Reed Davis, Functional Diagnostic Nutrition founder and holistic health innovator. They dig deep into why conventional testing misses so much and how food sensitivity and functional labs uncover answers most have never heard. Get real cases, testing strategies, and fresh hope to reclaim your health. Timestamped Highlights [00:00] Reed’s mission: from environmental law to functional health hero [00:04:40] Why “normal labs” leave people stuck—what’s missing? [00:07:05] Pain beyond injuries—how “hidden root causes” matter [00:11:01] Reed’s H.I.D.D.E.N. formula: why there’s rarely a single root cause [00:14:08] The D.R.E.S.S. protocol—real results beyond diagnosis [00:17:05] Susan’s story: drug-free relief from chronic hives [00:22:13] What food sensitivity testing reveals (even about “healthy foods”) [00:26:55] When doctors dismiss functional labs—how clients can respond [00:29:00] Metabolic chaos—the missing health link [00:34:07] The double standard in medicine—data only counts sometimes [00:39:43] Free resources on functional lab testing About The GuestReed Davis, Double-Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner (HHP) and Doctor of Nutritional Therapy (DNT), is a globally recognized expert in functional lab testing and holistic lifestyle medicine. As the visionary founder of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® (FDN), Reed has pioneered the FDN Certification Course, which has empowered over 5,000 practitioners across 50 countries to take charge of their clients' health. With more than a decade of experience as Health Director at a Southern California wellness center, Reed personally guided over 10,000 clients to optimal wellness, giving him the experience and foundational knowledge needed to teach others to build their own health careers. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website | Facebook Mentioned ResourcesFunctional Diagnostic Nutrition (FDN)H.I.D.D.E.N. framework (Hormone, Immune, Digestion, Detox, Energy, Nervous system)D.R.E.S.S. for Health Success™ (Diet, Rest, Exercise, Stress reduction, Supplementation)ALCAT food sensitivity test / mediator release testingThe Gap: Simple Steps to Reclaim Your Health and Reverse Most Chronic Diseases (Chronic Health Recovery Book...

Are you tired of chasing pain relief and feeling like you’re always one step behind your own healing? In today’s empowering episode, Stacey Roberts cracks open the surprising, science-backed role of fiber for real, lasting relief from muscle and joint pain, often overlooked, but never more relevant for anyone ready to feel vibrant again. Drawing from breakthrough studies and her own decades-long journey, Stacey Roberts reveals why fiber is more than a “digestion” thing—it’s the missing link in reducing inflammation, supporting your body from the inside out, and reclaiming the active, joyful life you deserve. Don’t wait for pain to define your days. This episode unlocks proven strategies and answers you won’t find anywhere else. Listen now to start your game-changing, pain-free path because what you do today truly transforms your tomorrow. Timestamped Highlights[00:00:00] – Can what you eat really change your pain? The silent power of fiber revealed [00:01:03] – An 8-year study uncovers the real, lasting pain relief hiding in your gut [00:04:19] – Why fiber isn’t just about digestion—discover the science behind joint pain relief [00:06:06] – Meet butyrate and the chemical messengers lowering your inflammation [00:07:27] – Soluble vs. insoluble fiber: The difference that changes everything [00:10:01] – The warning sign few know: When added fiber makes you feel worse [00:12:26] – Stacey’s own battle with fiber intolerance and the surprising way out [00:13:36] – Start low, go slow: How to build your fiber habit for real healing (without regret) Resources:Blog Post: 3 Ways Fiber Can Calm Joint Pain – What You Need to Know References:Fortuna R, Hart DA, Sharkey KA, Schachar RA, Johnston K, Reimer RA. Effect of a prebiotic supplement on knee joint function, gut microbiota, and inflammation in adults with co-morbid obesity and knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials. 2021 Apr 7;22(1):255. doi: 10.1186/s13063-021-05212-w. PMID: 33827639; PMCID: PMC8025512. Dai Z, Lu N, Niu J, Felson DT, Zhang Y. Dietary Fiber Intake in Relation to Knee Pain Trajectory. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2017 Sep;69(9):1331-1339. doi: 10.1002/acr.23158. Epub 2017 Aug 13. PMID: 27899003; PMCID: PMC5447491. Dai Z, Niu J, Zhang Y, Jacques P, Felson DT. Dietary intake of fibre and risk of knee osteoarthritis in two US prospective cohorts. Ann Rheum Dis. 2017 Aug;76(8):1411-1419. doi: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-210810. Epub 2017 May 23. Erratum in: Ann Rheum Dis. 2017 Dec;76(12):2103. doi: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-210810corr1. PMID: 28536116. Ma Y, Hébert JR, Li W, Bertone-Johnson ER, Olendzki B, Pagoto SL, Tinker L, Rosal MC, Ockene IS, Ockene JK, Griffith JA, Liu S. Association between dietary fiber and markers of systemic inflammation in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. Nutrition. 2008 Oct;24(10):941-9. doi: 10.1016/j.nut.2008.04.005. Epub 2008 Jun 18. PMID: 18562168; PMCID: PMC2603616. Ma, W., Nguyen, L.H., Song, M. et al. Dietary fiber intake, the gut microbiome, and chronic systemic inflammation in a cohort of adult men. Genome Med 13, 102...

Alcohol and pain don’t mix—literally. In this episode, Stacey gets real about how even moderate alcohol consumption can wreak havoc on your joints, muscles, hormones, gut, and sleep. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, perimenopause, or post-workout recovery struggles, this episode breaks down exactly how alcohol derails healing and what to drink instead if you still want to indulge occasionally. It’s the conversation your doctor probably isn’t having with you, but should. Timestamped Highlights[00:01:10] Why alcohol and joint pain is a touchy topic (especially in Wisconsin)[00:02:00] The #1 reason alcohol worsens joint and muscle pain: inflammation[00:03:15] Alcohol raises inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-alpha, CRP) and oxidative stress[00:04:47] Fascia, cartilage, and hydration—how alcohol dehydrates key tissues[00:05:41] Gut damage, leaky gut, and lipopolysaccharides that attack your joints[00:07:15] Histamines in alcohol: why wine, beer, and champagne can trigger joint flares[00:08:00] Women in perimenopause/postmenopause are especially sensitive to alcohol[00:10:00] The rebound estrogen crash: why one drink can worsen menopause symptoms[00:11:22] How alcohol affects men: testosterone suppression and man boobs[00:12:33] Alcohol + workouts = sabotage: it blocks muscle recovery and increases belly fat[00:14:35] Poor sleep, increased pain sensitivity, and blood sugar crashes[00:15:54] What to avoid: beer, red wine, sugary cocktails[00:17:28] Better options: gluten-free vodka, seltzer with citrus, dry white wine or champagne[00:19:07] How much is okay? Best practices for alcohol timing and pain managementspan class="ql-ui"...

Are you tired of “just managing” pain and want a real breakthrough? What if the secret to lasting relief isn’t another pill, but rewiring the tiny engines inside your cells? Stacey Roberts welcomes integrative medicine pioneer Dr. Scott Sherr to reveal the surprising science behind mitochondria, inflammation, and chronic pain. Together, they unpack how stress and diet ignite cellular dysfunction, why most Americans are living with suboptimal mitochondria, and what you can do now to restore energy, resilience, and relief. Listen now to sidestep the endless trial-and-error loop, discover insider diagnostics, and finally reclaim your best life. These powerful strategies aren’t being taught anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights [00:00:32] – Why the “little engine” in your cells might be sabotaging your pain recovery [00:02:28] – How thousands of mitochondria per cell decide which organs break down first [00:03:16] – The radical reason most doctors miss root causes of pain—Dr. Sherr’s personal story [00:09:02] – Red blood cells ditch mitochondria, and why this matters for healing and oxygen [00:10:44] – The #1 sabotage to your mitochondria: insulin resistance revealed [00:13:32] – “Sympathetic spiral of doom”—How chronic stress traps your cells in fight-or-flight [00:16:45] – A staggering fact: Only 6% of US adults have metabolically healthy mitochondria [00:17:06] – Chronic pain, cortisol, and the inflammation loop—breaking free for real relief [00:23:21] – Why your pain may not be about injury anymore (and what to do next) [00:26:30] – GABA and the real neuroscience behind stress, anxiety, and cell burnout [00:32:00] – Supplements are not a magic bullet—here’s what actually works for whole-body healing [00:38:11] – The three tests Dr. Sherr uses to personalize healing and pain reversal About The GuestDr. Scott Sherr is a board-certified internal medicine physician and the COO of Troscriptions. He is certified in Health Optimization Medicine (HOMe) and specializes in Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). Scott’s mission is to make complex science easy to understand and apply. Through his clinical work, teaching, and media appearances, he helps people and practitioners use HBOT and HOMe principles to boost brain health, energy, and resilience. Known for clear, actionable education, he translates cutting-edge research into practical steps that improve everyday health. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Clinics: 📍Troscriptions® LLC, Dover, DE Mentioned ResourcesGenova DiagnosticsHealth Optimization Medicine and Practice (HOMeHOPe)One Base Health Important LinksPain-Free Formula Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-pain-free-formula/id1802518411a href="https://newyouhealthandwellness.com/ebooks"...

Cortisone shots are often handed out without warnings or disclaimers, but at what cost? In this episode, Stacey breaks down the real science behind corticosteroid injections and why science has shown their short-term relief may come with long-term consequences. From cartilage damage to increased risk of joint replacement, you’ll learn why informed consent matters and what safer, evidence-based alternatives you can explore. Timestamped Highlights[00:01:00] Cortisone’s reputation vs. reality: widely used but only provides short-term relief [00:02:22] JAMA study: Corticosteroid every 3 months = more cartilage loss, no better pain relief [00:03:00] Risks include cartilage damage, fractures, and rare joint collapse [00:04:40] Cortisone shots near the shoulder linked to higher risk of rotator cuff tears [00:06:14] More injections = higher risk of total joint replacements (especially knees) [00:08:00] Injections into replaced joints can increase infection risk [00:09:00] Systemic effects: blood sugar spikes, insomnia, flushing, elevated BP [00:10:12] No “safe” number of injections—many studies show risk with just 1–2 [00:11:00] Safer options available [00:13:40] Stacey’s personal story: Why she said no to the cortisone shot (and wrote her book) [00:17:00] Why cortisone is still widely used [00:22:06] Studies shows changes in biomechanics can reduce arthritis pain and slow progression [00:24:02] If surgery is coming, when to avoid cortisone [00:25:00] Strategic use may be okay but repeat use often backfires Safety Reminders:⚠️ Important: Cortisone injections carry risks including cartilage breakdown, rotator cuff tears, systemic side effects, and higher rates of joint replacement. Discuss all options with your provider. If surgery is planned, avoid injections within 3 months of the procedure. This information is for educational use only and is not considered medical advice. Always speak to your healthcare provider when making health related decisions. Call us for noninvasive regenerative options 📞 414-299-8121 📧 [email protected] References & Further Reading:AAOS Knee OA Guidelines (2021): Read HereJAMA RCT on cartilage loss: PubMedRSNA: Steroid injections worsen OA: RSNA ReportShoulder steroid → tendon tear: PMCIncreased TKA risk: PubMedInfection risk if 3 months before surgery:a...

Menopause isn’t just about hot flashes. It can show up as unexplained joint pain, shoulder issues, pelvic dysfunction, and too often, women are told it’s all “just aging.” In this episode of The Pain-Free Formula Podcast, Stacey Roberts sits down with fellow physical therapist and pelvic health pioneer Stacey Futterman Tauriello to break down what’s really happening to our bodies during perimenopause and menopause, and why your hormones might be at the root of your pain. They unpack how estrogen acts as an anti-inflammatory, why pelvic floor therapy matters more than Kegels, and how tools like SoftWave can help restore tissue health. Plus, they preview the upcoming 2026 Not Your Mother’s Menopause conference, what inspired it all and how you can gain access. This is an empowering conversation for every woman navigating midlife changes, providers supporting them, or anyone ready to stop normalizing pain and start asking better questions. Timestamped Highlights [00:00:00] – Meet Stacey Futterman Tauriello and why menopause is a pain topic, literally [00:01:27] – How hormone shifts can trigger joint pain worse than hot flashes [00:02:30] – Personal stories of perimenopause symptoms and the power of estrogen therapy [00:04:30] – Behind the Not Your Mother’s Menopause conference and its explosive growth [00:06:00] – Why HRT is not the only path: alternative sessions at the 2026 event [00:07:00] – The gap in research and how providers can empower instead of gaslight [00:08:40] – What PTs should ask about hormonal health (yes, even at age 38) [00:09:50] – Estrogen as joint lube: how its loss changes recovery and performance [00:10:55] – Why pelvic floor dysfunction shows up years after childbirth [00:12:05] – The truth about “small bladders” and why we’ve normalized leaking [00:13:00] – From intimacy to incontinence: why tissue health = muscle health [00:14:20] – The misunderstood overactivity of pelvic floors [00:15:00] – How SoftWave helps boost blood flow, rebuild tissue, and support healing [00:16:15] – It’s not weakness—it’s circulation, coordination, and better input [00:17:30] – Conference preview: Ozempic, hormones, cancer, sexual health & more [00:18:55] – How to talk to your doctor: testing, questions, and empowerment [00:20:30] – Creating community: why this is more than a lecture; it’s a movement [00:22:00] – What drives Stacey Futterman: doing good in a chaotic world [00:23:15] – Final takeaway: hope, community, and passing it on Safety Reminders Pelvic floor symptoms, hormonal shifts, and chronic joint pain during menopause are common, but not normal. If you’re dealing with new pain, incontinence, or tissue changes, consult a qualified provider. This episode is educational and does not replace medical advice. About the Guest Stacey Futterman Tauriello, PT, MPT, WCS, BCB-PMD is a nationally recognized pelvic and orthopedic physical therapist, founder of 5 Point Physical Therapy, cofounder of Not Your Mother’s Menopause, and a longtime instructor with the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute. She blends orthopedic sports medicine with pelvic floor rehab to help patients resolve pain, regain confidence, and live fully. She’s been featured on NBC’s Today Show, CBS New York, and more. Clinics: 📍 New York, NY: 5 POINT Physical Therapy PLLC 37 W. 20th Street, Suite 607 | Tel: 212-226-2066 📍 Millburn, NJ: 5 POINT Physical Therapy and Wellness LLC 318 Main Street, Suite 200A | Tel: 973-671-5855 🔗 5pt.com 🎟️ Not Your Mother’s Menopause Conference Info 📅 January 11, 2026li...

Most people think of chocolate as a guilty pleasure, but what if the right kind could actually fight pain and inflammation? In this episode of The Pain-Free Formula Podcast, Stacey Roberts dives deep into the science behind dark chocolate, cocoa flavanols, and how they interact with your body’s inflammatory and nervous systems. You’ll learn which types of chocolate could contribute to pain reduction, which ones might make it worse, and how to build a mindful, pain-friendly chocolate ritual. Whether you’re managing chronic joint pain or just love a good square of dark chocolate, this episode is packed with tasty, science-backed takeaways. [00:00:00] – Chocolate boosts serotonin and dopamine for better mood and pain resilience [00:00:34] – The Pain-Free Formula mission and Stacey’s message of hope [00:01:27] – Welcome and topic reveal: The truth about chocolate and pain [00:02:20] – The science behind cocoa and flavonoids [00:03:07] – How dark chocolate reduces inflammation and oxidative stress [00:03:36] – Chocolate’s impact on fibromyalgia, fatigue, and endorphins [00:03:59] – The problem with most chocolate: sugar, dairy, and processed fats [00:04:28] – How milk proteins block polyphenol absorption [00:04:49] – Additives, shelf life, and hidden inflammation [00:05:10] – The “good, bad, and bittersweet”: breaking down chocolate types [00:05:36] – Why dark chocolate (70–90%) is the best choice for inflammation [00:06:00] – What to look for: non-alkalized cocoa for maximum benefit [00:06:06] – Milk chocolate: low cocoa, high sugar, and lost benefits [00:06:36] – White chocolate: no antioxidants, all inflammation [00:07:00] – Cacao nibs: the unprocessed superfood [00:07:26] – The chocolate-hormone connection: serotonin, dopamine, and magnesium [00:08:26] – When sugar and milk cancel out chocolate’s benefits [00:08:49] – The nervous system connection: overactivation vs. rest-and-digest [00:09:11] – Stacey’s “Pain-Free Formula Chocolate Ritual” [00:09:33] – How to pair chocolate with healthy fats for better absorption [00:09:53] – Mindful eating to activate healing and parasympathetic tone [00:10:42] – Spice it up: turmeric and cinnamon as chocolate enhancers [00:11:00] – The verdict: dark chocolate = medicine for your mitochondria [00:12:00] – You don’t have to settle for pain—healing is possible Safety RemindersChoose high-quality dark chocolate (85%+ cacao) and avoid dairy-laden, sugar-filled varieties. If you’re experiencing pain flare-ups even with a clean diet, you may have hidden food sensitivities. Call us for food sensitivity testing: 📞 414-299-8121 📧 [email protected] References & Further ReadingSchümann, G., et al. (2008). The anti-inflammatory properties of cocoa flavanols. British Journal of Nutrition, 99, 777–786.Ramirez-Sanchez, I., et al. (2020). Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Nociceptive Effects of Cocoa: A Review. Pain and Therapy, 9, 415–430.Starowicz, P., et al. (2021). Chocolate intake and muscle pain sensation: A randomized cross-over trial. PLOS ONE.Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2023). Dark chocolate is best choice for health—but don’t turn it into medicine.span...

What if your best pain reliever wasn’t in your medicine cabinet but in your sense of humor? In this uplifting episode of The Pain-Free Formula Podcast, Stacey Roberts explores the surprising power of laughter as a tool for reducing chronic pain, stress, and even inflammation. Through storytelling, research, and a guided mini “laughter workout,” Stacey reveals how intentional laughter can shift brain chemistry, activate healing hormones, and provide real relief from discomfort, all without side effects. Whether it’s Norman Cousins’ famous recovery through Marx Brothers reruns or modern studies showing how laughter yoga lowers cortisol and improves life satisfaction, this episode makes one thing clear: a daily dose of joy might just be part of your wellness plan. Timestamped Highlights[00:00:00] – Opening gratitude and intro to laughter as medicine [00:01:00] – What is laughter therapy and why it matters [00:01:30] – Norman Cousins’ healing story with laughter [00:03:01] – The physiology of laughter: cortisol, endorphins, circulation [00:04:00] – How laughter shifts pain perception [00:05:00] – Parasympathetic response and relaxation after laughter [00:06:13] – Structured laughter (laughter yoga) and contagious effect [00:07:19] – Cortisol reduction and oxytocin release from social laughter [00:08:00] – Practical laughter prescription: laugh before/during stress [00:08:50] – Mini laughter workout guided by Stacey [00:10:00] – Norman Cousins revisited: 10 minutes of laughter = 2 hours of sleep [00:10:45] – Chronic pain patients using humor see better life satisfaction [00:11:30] – Final thoughts: Stacey’s 5-point laughter prescription Your PrescriptionLaughter won’t replace medical treatment, but it’s a complementary practice that supports healing. If your pain persists or worsens, consult a healthcare provider. Laugh every day — on purpose.Before something stressful, get your giggle reps in.Laugh with others — shared laughter multiplies the benefit.Reframe your pain — find humor in the struggle.And never underestimate a good snort-laugh. 📞 Call 414‑299‑8121 📧 Email [email protected] References & Further ReadingKramer, C. K., & Leitão, C. B. (2023). Laughter as medicine: A systematic review and meta-analysis of interventional studies evaluating the impact of spontaneous laughter on cortisol levels. PLoS ONE, 18(5), e0286260. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0286260Şis, Ç., & Kılınç, T. (2022). The effect of laughter yoga on perceived stress, burnout, and life satisfaction in nurses during the pandemic: A randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 49, 101638. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101638Kuru Aliçi, N., & Bahçeli, P. Z. (2021). Effects of laughter therapy on life satisfaction and loneliness in older adults living in nursing homes in Turkey: A parallel-group...

Do you ever notice your body aches more after a weekend of takeout or packaged snacks? It might not be your imagination. In this episode of The Pain-Free Formula Podcast, Stacey Roberts explores the hidden impact of ultra-processed foods—those industrial, ingredient‑heavy items that often dominate modern diets—and how they may be quietly fueling inflammation associated with muscle and joint pain. Stacey walks through the evidence based science of gut barrier disruption, oxidative stress, microbiome imbalance, and how these mechanisms connect diet to pain signaling. You’ll also get practical strategies for dialing down the inflammatory fire. This episode is for anyone who wants to understand why their pain flares and what to do about it. Timestamped Highlights[00:00:00] – Why pain can flare up after takeout, snacks, or quick meals[00:01:00] – What counts as ultra‑processed and why it matters more than you think[00:02:00] – NIH study: two diets, same calories—very different results[00:03:20] – How food companies design cravings and profit from inflammation[00:03:40] – Hidden inflammation: what CRP, IL‑6, and TNF‑alpha reveal[00:04:00] – Gut barrier damage: how additives trigger “fire alarms” in your body[00:04:48] – The oxidative stress analogy: teenagers, houses, and free radicals[00:06:00] – How processed foods strip antioxidants and weaken your defenses[00:06:28] – The gut microbiome connection: fewer good bacteria, more inflammation[00:07:18] – How gut inflammation spreads to joints, muscles, and nerves[00:07:51] – Neurobiology 101: how inflammation turns into chronic pain[00:08:27] – Central sensitization: when your nervous system stays “on alert”[00:09:14] – Why even healthy foods can trigger pain if you’re sensitive to themspan class="ql-ui"...