In this episode, I sit down with Dr. M. Lucius Pomerantz—fellow orthopedic surgeon, black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and lifestyle medicine expert—to dive deep into the fascinating intersection of combat sports, injury, recovery, and longevity. We talk about what pulls high-performing doctors into such a physically intense world, and why so many of us can’t resist the challenge and community of Jiu Jitsu despite the inevitable injuries. We get real about the toll this sport takes on the body, the psychological rollercoaster of recovery, and the difference it makes to be treated by a physician who truly gets what you’re going through. 

Episode Highlights:

[0:12 ] Kicking off with Dr. Pomerantz—how we both ended up surgeons who also love getting wrecked on the mats.
[2:48 ] Why orthopedic surgery is addictively satisfying, and how the stress of perfectionism weighs on us.
[5:20 ] What draws doctors to combat sports even though it’s a surefire way to get injured.
[8:22 ] Fighting MMA during residency and what that dynamic looked like with attendings and co-residents.
[10:27 ] Getting hospitalized from pushing too hard—when the body says “no more”.
[11:40 ] The most common hand injuries we see in combat athletes and why buddy taping is life.
[14:28 ] Coolest injuries we’ve treated and the emotional weight behind what stays with us.
[18:17 ] Lucius’s own pec tear—what it felt like, and how it forced him to face life off the mats.
[25:01 ] How being injured changed the way we treat our own patients.
[30:16 ] The harsh truths of ACL recovery and the mental game behind getting back.
[34:04 ] Why we don’t tell athletes “just stop” and how community and understanding matter in care.
[35:30 ] Advice for young athletes on recovery and managing ego.
[40:23 ] Advice for the 40+ crowd who want to keep training without breaking themselves.
[43:38 ] Learning body awareness and ego management for true longevity in combat sports.

Links & Resources:

• Website: https://synergysmg.com/specialist/m-lucius-pomerantz-md/ 
• Instagram: @drlucmd
• YouTube Channel: Cut to the Bone

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To learn more about Dr. Megan Jimenez, check out her website: doctorjiujitsu.com