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The Back Story

The Back Story
Author: Dr. Jaspal Ricky Singh M.D.
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© 2025 The Back Story
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The Back Story is your source for the latest in health, wellness and medical care for you and your entire family. Dr. Jaspal Ricky Singh M.D. and the world-renowned physicians at Weill Cornell Medicine, join forces with an expanded network of experts to bring in-depth conversations covering medical research, trending topics and wellness. Our podcast is a trusted source of information for medical care, combined with real patient experiences and the latest breakthroughs in medicine.
98 Episodes
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💬 “Diet soda is worse than regular soda.” Myth: Artificial sweeteners are more harmful than sugar.Reality: While not necessarily healthy, diet sodas are generally less harmful than sugary sodas in terms of calorie and sugar content. However, concerns remain about long-term effects of artificial sweeteners on gut health and appetite regulation. 🍷 “Red wine is good for your heart because of resveratrol.” Myth: A glass of red wine a day is heart-healthy.Reality: Resveratrol has shown bene...
From Kevin Durant to Tyrese Haliburton, Jayson Tatum, and Damian Lillard — elite athletes are going down with devastating tendon tears. But why now? What’s changed? And what can be done to prevent these injuries? Let’s break it down. Why Do Tendons Get Injured? 1. Mechanical Overload 2. Tendinopathy and Degeneration 3. Aging and Reduced Blood Flow 4. Biomechanical Imbalances 5. Systemic Risk Factors 6. Sudden Load Increases What the Science Says About Tendon Protection 1. Eccentric St...
You’ve probably heard of drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. These medications have become household names, not just for managing diabetes, but for their profound impact on weight loss and metabolic health. In this episode, we’ll unpack the mechanism of action, explore the evolution of these drugs, discuss their long-term safety and efficacy, and take a deep dive into how they affect body composition. We’ll also talk about compound formulations, new innovations, and the broader health i...
Your spine is a marvel of engineering—33 bones, 100+ joints, and a complex network of muscles and nerves. But it wasn’t built for a sedentary life. In this episode of The Back Story, we explore: Why spinal aging starts in your 30s—and how disc degeneration, muscle loss, and poor posture accelerate itThe real culprits behind back pain: not just biology, but lifestyle7 science-backed strategies to keep your spine strong, mobile, and pain-free—from micro-movements and posterior chain training to...
In this episode of, we dive deep into the science and promise of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy—a regenerative treatment that’s turning heads in orthopedics, sports medicine, and aesthetics. Whether you're a clinician, athlete, or just curious about cutting-edge healing techniques, this conversation breaks down how PRP works, what the latest research says, and who might benefit most. We also tackle common myths, discuss real-world outcomes, and explore the future of biologic t...
What Is Morning Stiffness, Anyway? Morning stiffness is that tight, achy, or creaky feeling in your joints and muscles when you first wake up. It’s most noticeable in the back, neck, hips, knees, and fingers. The stiffness usually eases within 30 minutes—but in some conditions, it can last hours. Pro Tips for Waking Up Without Stiffness Stretch in bed before you get up—ankle pumps, knee-to-chest, cat-cow Hydrate before your coffee Walk for 5 minutes before sitting down i...
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected, this episode is for you. So, take a deep breath, and let’s begin this journey together. Understanding Spirituality Beyond Religion The Power of Acceptance Cultivating Self-Awareness The Role of Community Connection Integrating Spiritual Practices into Daily Life The journey to mental well-being isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Spirituality is not about adopting new beliefs—it’s about reconnecting with yours...
So, after breaking it all down, what’s the verdict? Is one of these substances definitively worse than the other? Alcohol has greater short- and long-term health risks, including addiction, organ damage, and cancer.Cannabis has fewer physiological harms but can affect mental health and cognitive function.Cannabis has legitimate medical applications, whereas alcohol does not.Social and legal acceptance of alcohol far outweighs that of cannabis, despite scientific evidence suggesting that canna...
Let’s be clear: Cardio is NOT bad. It has benefits. But if your goal is to live longer, move better, and stay independent, strength training should be your priority. Here’s why: Cardio Alone: 🚴♂️ ❌ Burns muscle along with fat ❌ Does little for bone density ❌ Minimal impact on metabolism after the workout Resistance Training: 💪 ✅ Builds and preserves muscle ✅ Strengthens bones and joints ✅ Boosts metabolism for hours after exercise ✅ Enhances heart, brain, and hormonal health For the l...
In this episode, we dive into the world of osteoporosis, a condition that silently weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures. We’ll explore how osteoporosis is diagnosed, including the role of bone density tests, risk factors to watch for, and the importance of early detection. Then, we’ll break down the latest treatment options, from lifestyle modifications and dietary strategies to medications that can help strengthen bones. Whether you’re concerned about your bone health or support...
In this special edition, we reflect on the lessons of the past year and explore how to approach the year ahead with purpose and positivity. 🎙️ In this episode, we cover: The power of setting intentions versus resolutions.How small, consistent actions can lead to big changes.Strategies for staying motivated and overcoming obstacles.The importance of reflection and gratitude in personal growth.Whether you’re looking to improve your health, strengthen relationships, or take bold steps toward a d...
Running a marathon is one of the most challenging and rewarding endeavors a person can undertake. It’s not just about crossing the finish line; the journey involves months of rigorous training, mental fortitude, and spiritual introspection. While the marathon itself is a singular event, the preparation process profoundly impacts physical, mental, and spiritual health. This episode explores the benefits of marathon training and running, supported by medical literature, providing a comprehensiv...
In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s nearly impossible to avoid screens. Whether it’s our smartphones, computers, tablets, or TVs, we are constantly plugged into the digital realm. While these devices offer convenience and connectivity, they also come with a hidden cost to our mental and physical well-being. This has led to a growing movement toward digital detoxing—intentionally stepping back from screens to reconnect with ourselves and the world around us. This episode delve...
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has garnered significant attention over the past decade as a promising treatment modality for various musculoskeletal conditions. PRP, an autologous concentration of platelets in plasma, leverages the body’s natural healing mechanisms. The rationale behind PRP therapy is based on the pivotal role of platelets in wound healing and tissue repair through the release of growth factors and cytokines. This episode aims to provide a comprehensive review of t...
In this episode, we delve into the latest advancements in medical science and explore how they can transform our lives. From stem cell therapy to tissue engineering, regenerative medicine holds the promise of revolutionizing healthcare by harnessing the body’s own healing powers. So, let’s embark on this journey together and unlock the future of medicine. What is Regenerative Medicine? At its core, regenerative medicine aims to repair, replace, or regenerate damaged tissues and organs...
Here are the answers to all of your questions—including exactly how to get started. What is the macro diet? The idea behind the macro diet is pretty simple: Instead of staying under a calorie threshold, you focus on getting a certain number (typically grams) of macronutrients—protein, carbohydrates, and fat—instead. Depending on your goals, you can adjust the amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fats you consume to slim down, build muscle, or maintain your weight. What are macronutrients? M...
Today, we explore the profound difference between sympathy and empathy, and how understanding these distinctions can significantly impact our interactions and overall wellness. 1. Sympathy: Feeling for, not with Sympathy involves recognizing another person's suffering and expressing care or concern for their well-being. However, it doesn't necessarily entail truly understanding or sharing their feelings. Let's consider an example: Imagine a friend who recently lost a job. You may feel sympath...
There are many ways to measure body fat percentage. However, the most accurate measurements aren’t available at home. While it’s natural to want objective feedback on your progress, body weight shouldn’t be your main focus. Some “overweight” people are healthy, while others with “normal weight” are unhealthy. However, your body fat percentage tells you what your weight is comprised of. Specifically, it tells you the percent of your total body weight that is fat. The lower your body fat perce...
Today's episode is all about kickstarting the new year with a commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Whether you're a seasoned health enthusiast, or just starting out on your wellness journey, I've got some great tips and insights for you. 1: Reflection and Goal Setting 2: Nutrition and Hydration 3: Exercise and Movement 4: Mental and Emotional Well-being 5: Building Healthy Habits 6: Creating a Supportive Environment Thank you for being a par...
The Pros and Cons of Protein Supplements Pros Convenience: Protein supplements, such as protein powders and shakes, offer a convenient and quick way to meet daily protein requirements, especially for individuals with busy lifestyles.Muscle Growth and Repair: Adequate protein intake is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein supplements, particularly those rich in essential amino acids, can accelerate the recovery process after intense physical activity.Weight Management: Protein has a...