The Real Health Podcast

"This is a circulation upgrade." —Dr. Ron HunninghakeMany people recovering from COVID continue to deal with fatigue, brain fog, and symptoms that don’t fully resolve. For some, standard testing comes back normal, even when they don’t feel back to baseline.In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Michelle Niesley discuss long COVID, microclots, and how changes in circulation are being studied in relation to ongoing symptoms.They walk through what clinicians are seeing in practice and why long COVID can be difficult to define. Symptoms can show up in many different ways, which makes it harder to pinpoint a single cause. This has led to more attention on how blood flow and capillary function may influence how the body feels and functions over time.Dr. Hunninghake shares emerging research around microclots and how they may affect circulation at the smallest levels of the body. Dr. Niesley connects that to what co-learners are experiencing and why some people continue to search for answers even after being told everything looks normal.They also discuss a protocol being explored at the clinic that includes HOT UBI and intravenous vitamin C, along with how often treatments are given and what the process looks like. Early experiences are shared, along with the importance of continuing to learn through observation and data over time.👉 Learn more about HOT UBI with IVC and how it’s being used as part of an individualized approach.You’ll also hear how this approach fits into the broader Riordan model—looking at nutrient status, environmental factors, and the full picture of a person’s health.If you’re navigating lingering symptoms after COVID or trying to understand what may be contributing to them, we hope this conversation offers a place to start.👉 Learn more or request an appointment at riordanclinic.org✨ Riordan Clinic is also celebrating 50 years of care at the upcoming Pearls & Purpose Gala. This evening brings together community, research, and the future of care.👉 Reserve your seat at gala.riordanclinic.orgEpisode links and resourcesExplore integrative services at Riordan ClinicBecome a Riordan Clinic co-learnerLearn more about Dr. Ron HunninghakeLearn more about Dr. Michelle NiesleyReserve your seat at the Pearls & Purpose GalaWatch more Real Health Podcast episodesEpisode chapters00:00 Welcome to the Real Health Podcast00:57 What long COVID can look like02:06 Microclots and circulation03:35 Microclots vs. larger clots03:53 Challenges with testing05:05 Exploring new approaches05:23 HOT UBI and IV vitamin C07:36 Treatment frequency09:33 Safety and process11:23 Side effects and observations11:52 Looking ahead13:25 Final thoughtsDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.Topics we explore in this episode include:long COVID symptoms, microclots and circulation, fatigue and brain fog, integrative medicine, HOT UBI therapy, intravenous vitamin C, chronic illness patterns, functional medicine approach, Riordan Clinic, Real Health Podcast

"We’re moving from reactive care to proactive care." —Dr. Michelle NiesleySome people feel like they’re always reacting to symptoms without really understanding what’s underneath them.In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake sits down with Dr. Michelle Niesley to discuss leadership at Riordan Clinic and what it means to move toward a more proactive approach to care.They talk about how communication across teams shapes the experience for co-learners, and why that matters from the very first call through long-term follow-up. Dr. Niesley also shares her background in integrative oncology and research, and how that perspective helps her see where care can be more connected and more clear.They explore what it looks like to move from a reactive model to a more proactive one—using testing, data, and patterns over time to better understand what each person may need. There’s also a conversation around newer tools, like wearable technology, and how those can help people stay more aware of what’s changing in their bodies day to day.You’ll also hear how the co-learner model shows up in real life. People are asking more questions, looking for clarity, and wanting to be part of the process.As Riordan Clinic looks ahead, the focus is on staying connected to the community, continuing research, and building on what’s already working to support co-learners over time.If you’re exploring integrative medicine or looking for a more personalized way to approach your health, you can learn more or request an appointment at riordanclinic.org.✨ Riordan Clinic is also celebrating 50 years of care at the upcoming Pearls & Purpose Gala. It’s a chance to come together, reflect on where the clinic has been, and support where it’s going. To learn more or reserve your seat, visit gala.riordanclinic.orgMany co-learners start by gathering information and asking questions before deciding what makes sense for them. Conversations like this are meant to support that process.Episode links and resourcesExplore integrative services at Riordan ClinicBecome a new co-learnerLearn more about Dr. Ron HunninghakeLearn more about Dr. Michelle NiesleyReserve your seat at the Pearls & Purpose GalaWatch more Real Health Podcast episodesEpisode chapters00:00 Welcome to the Real Health Podcast00:57 Leadership at Riordan Clinic03:10 Dr. Niesley’s background and research06:45 Transition to CEO role10:05 Building a connected leadership team13:20 Integrative medicine approach16:10 From reactive to proactive care19:05 Role of data and technology in care21:45 Co-learner model and patient engagement23:50 Looking ahead to the future of Riordan ClinicDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.Topics we explore in this episode include:integrative medicine leadership, proactive vs reactive care, personalized health approach, co-learner model, functional medicine strategy, healthcare leadership communication, patient-centered care, health data and wearable technology, Riordan Clinic, Real Health Podcast

"This is a circulation upgrade." —Dr. Thomas LevyMany people recovering from COVID describe persistent fatigue, brain fog, or a sense that their body has not fully returned to baseline. These experiences continue to raise questions for both patients and clinicians.In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake welcomes Dr. Thomas Levy to discuss circulation, microclots, and how blood flow may influence recovery patterns.They discuss how circulation delivers oxygen throughout the body and why changes in blood flow may be associated with symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and reduced energy. The discussion also explores oxidative stress and laboratory markers such as D-dimer, a blood test sometimes used to evaluate clotting activity, when clinicians review circulation patterns.Dr. Ron and Dr. Levy also discuss microcirculation, the movement of blood through the smallest vessels in the body, and why disruptions in that system may influence how oxygen and nutrients reach tissues.The episode also explores hematogenous oxidative therapy (HOT) and ultraviolet blood irradiation (UBI), circulation-focused approaches that involve exposing a small amount of blood to controlled oxygen and ultraviolet light before reinfusion. Intravenous vitamin C may also be included as part of this approach in integrative clinical settings.Riordan Clinic recently began offering HOT-UBI with oxygenation and intravenous vitamin C as part of its integrative clinical services that focus on supporting circulation and cellular health.If you are curious whether approaches like this may be relevant to your situation, you can contact Riordan Clinic or request an appointment at riordanclinic.org to begin a conversation with our team.Many co-learners begin by gathering information and asking questions before deciding what next step makes sense for them. Conversations like this one are meant to support that process and help people better understand topics being explored in integrative clinical settings.Learn more about integrative services at Riordan ClinicEpisode links and resourcesBecome a new co-learnerWatch more Real Health Podcast episodesEpisode chapters00:00 Welcome to the Real Health Podcast00:56 Long COVID and persistent symptoms03:12 Microcirculation and oxygen delivery06:05 Microclots and blood flow09:14 D-dimer and clotting markers12:08 Ultraviolet blood irradiation and oxygenation16:02 HOT-UBI therapy discussion20:24 Circulation and chronic health patterns24:10 Research and clinical observationsDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.Topics we explore in this episode includelong COVID discussion, microcirculation, blood flow and tissue oxygenation, oxidative stress, D-dimer and clotting markers, ultraviolet blood irradiation, hematogenous oxidative therapy, oxygenation therapy, intravenous vitamin C, integrative health education, Real Health Podcast, Riordan Clinic

"If you don’t measure, you’re guessing." —Dr. Ron HunninghakeThis episode is a recording from our February 26, 2026, Lunch & Learn at Riordan Clinic in Wichita.Energy that rises and crashes. Mood changes that feel difficult to explain. Sleep that looks fine on paper but never feels fully restorative. Many people are told their labs are normal, yet they still feel off.This Lunch & Learn is designed for individuals who want a clearer understanding of how hormones and metabolism influence daily vitality.In this session, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Drew Rose explore how thyroid patterns, adrenal signaling, insulin dynamics, and nutrient status intersect with energy, mood, and long-term wellness. They discuss why a single lab marker may not always tell the full story and how a more comprehensive review can offer additional context when evaluating metabolic patterns.They also review stress physiology, environmental influences, and the importance of tracking trends over time rather than relying on one isolated result. The emphasis throughout the discussion is on thoughtful measurement, collaborative learning, and individualized decision-making.Learn more about Check Your Health | March 2–13, 2026Available at Wichita and Overland Park locationsEpisode Links and ResourcesExplore integrative services at Riordan ClinicBecome a new co-learnerWatch more Real Health Podcast episodesEpisode Chapters00:00 Welcome and event overview01:18 Why hormones and metabolism matter03:42 Looking beyond a single thyroid marker06:15 Adrenal patterns and stress response08:37 Insulin dynamics and energy regulation10:54 Nutrient status and metabolic support13:22 Environmental and lifestyle considerations15:40 Measurement, monitoring, and next stepsDisclaimerThe information contained in this Lunch & Learn recording and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information shared is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by presenters or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship.Topics we explore in this Lunch & Learn include:hormone health education, thyroid evaluation discussion, adrenal physiology, stress response, insulin dynamics, blood sugar regulation, metabolic health, nutrient testing, laboratory measurement, sleep and energy patterns, integrative health education, Riordan Clinic, Check Your Health

"Measure, measure, measure." —Dr. Ron HunninghakeFatigue that lingers. Brain fog that will not clear. Sleep that never feels restorative. Many people are told their labs are within normal ranges, yet they still do not feel like themselves.This conversation is designed for anyone looking to better understand hormone health, thyroid health, and metabolic patterns that can shape daily energy.In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Drew Rose explore how hormones and metabolism influence energy patterns, mood, sleep, and day-to-day vitality. They discuss why thyroid evaluation can involve more than a single TSH result and how markers such as free T3 and reverse T3 may add helpful context when reviewing metabolic patterns.Register for Lunch & Learn: How Hormones and Metabolism Shape Your Energy, Mood, and Wellness (attend in person or watch live on YouTube)  Learn more about Check Your Health (March 2–13)They also talk through adrenal function, stress physiology, insulin dynamics, and the ways nutrient status can intersect with hormone balance. Dr. Ron shares historical context around hormone therapy, including where past concerns originated, and explains how careful measurement and ongoing monitoring can support individualized decisions.Upcoming events at the Riordan ClinicLunch & Learn  Thursday, February 26, 2026  Lunch: 11:30 AM | Lecture: 12:00 PM  Register to attend in person or watch live on YouTubeCheck Your Health  March 2–13, 2026  Available at Wichita and Overland Park locations  Learn more about Check Your HealthEpisode links and resourcesExplore integrative services at Riordan ClinicBecome a new co-learnerListen to more Real Health Podcast episodesEpisode chapters  00:00 Welcome  00:56 Why hormones and metabolism matter  02:22 Looking beyond TSH  03:59 Free T3 and reverse T3 explained  07:14 Adrenal patterns and stress  08:43 Insulin and nutrient interplay  10:21 Sleep and hormone balance  11:28 Environmental influences on hormone levels  12:51 Questions about hormone therapy  15:28 Measurement and long-term perspective + closing reflectionsDisclaimer  The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.Topics we explore in this episode include:  thyroid evaluation, free T3, reverse T3, adrenal physiology, stress physiology, insulin dynamics, hormone balance discussion, nutrient status, laboratory evaluation, metabolic patterns

Update (February 25, 2026): Dr. Cynthia Aks is no longer with Riordan Clinic.“Healing involves addressing the whole person — body, mind, and lived experience.” — Dr. Cynthia AksIn this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Ron Hunninghake, MD, welcomes Cynthia Aks, DO, FACOS, ABIHM, to the Riordan Clinic team. A board-certified General Surgeon and Integrative Healthcare Practitioner, Dr. Aks brings more than three decades of experience in breast health, integrative medicine, and whole-person perspectives on care.Dr. Aks shares her professional journey from osteopathic medical training and surgical leadership to her work integrating education, lifestyle considerations, movement, and complementary modalities into oncology and survivorship conversations. She reflects on her pioneering work in breast health innovation, her belief in collaborative, patient-centered relationships, and her interest in helping individuals stay informed and engaged throughout their health journey.Highlights include:→ Dr. Aks’ path from surgery to integrative healthcare perspectives→ How osteopathic philosophy informs her approach to patient care→ Insights from decades specializing in breast disease and oncology settings→ The role of education, lifestyle considerations, and complementary modalities in survivorship discussions→ How ongoing connection and accountability factor into long-term health engagementAbout Cynthia Aks, DO, FACOS, ABIHMDr. Cynthia Aks is a board-certified General Surgeon and Integrative Healthcare Practitioner at Riordan Clinic. She has specialized in breast health since 1997 and is recognized for her role in breast health innovation, including being the first surgeon in Oregon to perform cryoablation for breast cancer. Her background includes leadership of comprehensive breast centers, advanced training in integrative and complementary disciplines, and extensive experience in oncology-focused education and survivorship-oriented care conversations.👉 Learn more about Dr. Cynthia Aks or explore care at Riordan ClinicRead the full Riordan Clinic Welcomes Dr. Cynthia Aks articleEpisode Links & ResourcesWatch the episode on YouTubeExplore integrative services at Riordan ClinicBecome a new co-learnerListen to more episodesEpisode Chapters00:00 Welcome + introducing Dr. Cynthia Aks01:08 Dr. Aks’ medical background and osteopathic training03:54 Specializing in breast health and integrative medicine06:22 Leadership in comprehensive breast centers08:49 Innovation in breast health and cryoablation11:47 Integrative and complementary perspectives on care15:00 Survivorship education and long-term engagement18:42 Holistic philosophy and whole-person considerationsDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.Topics we explore in this episode include:osteopathic medicine, integrative healthcare, breast health, survivorship education, oncology care perspectives, patient-centered care, complementary modalities, lifestyle considerations, Riordan Clinic providers, doctor-patient relationship, preventive health

“It’s easy to think of melatonin as only a sleep supplement, but its story is much bigger.” —Dr. Ron HunninghakeMelatonin has been in the spotlight recently after a press release raised concerns about long-term use. In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Stacy Dunn bring clarity to the conversation by offering a perspective grounded in research, long-standing clinical experience, and thoughtful evaluation.Drawing on decades of integrative practice, Dr. Ron and Dr. Dunn walk through what the recent study did and didn’t demonstrate, and outline how clinicians approach natural compounds in individualized care. They discuss the broader history of melatonin research, its well-known antioxidant activity, and the practical considerations that guide its use in an oncology setting. Their discussion highlights how dosage, product quality, clinical context, and patient history shape responsible decision-making.Their conversation reflects Riordan Clinic’s long-held commitment to education and co-learning to help individuals make sense of complex information, understand the origins of health questions, and feel equipped to move forward with clarity.About Dr. Stacy DunnDr. Stacy Dunn, ND, LAc, FABNO, FABORM, is a member of the integrative oncology team at Riordan Clinic and practices at the Overland Park, Kansas, clinic location. She brings more than 25 years of experience in integrative cancer care, women’s health, and acupuncture. Her work centers on collaboration, education, and helping individuals navigate complex health concerns with steadiness and informed guidance. 📄 Learn more about Dr. DunnAbout Dr. Ron HunninghakeDr. Ron Hunninghake is the Chief Medical Officer at Riordan Clinic and has shaped the organization’s educational and clinical direction since 1989. Over the course of his career, he has become a nationally recognized voice in nutrition-focused, laboratory-informed approaches to health. Dr. Ron has delivered hundreds of lectures on foundational wellness, metabolic patterns, and the deeper drivers of human functioning, earning a reputation for making complex ideas accessible and meaningful. His long-standing dedication to inquiry, clarity, and practical wisdom continues to influence practitioners and co-learners seeking a more thoughtful path to better health. 📄 Learn more about Dr. RonEpisode Links and ResourcesExplore integrative services at Riordan ClinicBecome a Riordan Clinic co-learnerListen to more episodesEpisode Chapters00:00 Welcome00:37 Why melatonin is in the news02:05 Understanding what the recent study showed04:22 How long-standing melatonin research informs perspective06:58 Antioxidant activity and clinical context09:45 Dosage, quality, and individual considerations12:05 How clinicians evaluate natural compounds15:00 Co-learning and clear communication in oncology care17:40 Lifestyle patterns that support overall wellbeing20:12 Closing reflectionsDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.Topics covered in this episodemelatonin research, integrative oncology discussion, antioxidant activity, clinician perspective, supportive care considerations, oxidative stress, individualized evaluation, co-learning, health education, Riordan Clinic

“Every case represents a new pathway to better health.” —Dr. Ron HunninghakeThis episode of the Real Health Podcast looks ahead to the future of integrative care at Riordan Clinic. Dr. Drew Rose and Dr. Ron Hunninghake explore how the clinic is building on 50 years of learning, research, and co-learning to guide the next era of patient support.Dr. Ron reflects on the turning points he has witnessed over his 34 years at the clinic, including early RECNAC research, the evolution of integrative oncology, and the clinic’s long-standing emphasis on laboratory investigation to help individuals understand their own health story. They highlight the importance of curiosity, education, metabolic health awareness, support for chronic illness, and the intentionality that have shaped Riordan Clinic from the beginning.They also discuss the emergence of a new generation of providers and how this team will carry the clinic’s vision forward. Their conversation centers on what sustainable, whole-person care can look like in the future and how Riordan Clinic continues to evolve while remaining grounded in its core principles.Ron Hunninghake, MDDr. Ron Hunninghake is the Chief Medical Officer of Riordan Clinic and has been part of the organization since 1989. Throughout his career, he has championed a patient-centered approach rooted in nutritional science, biochemical individuality, and thoughtful inquiry. Dr. Hunninghake has lectured nationally and internationally on integrative health, the importance of laboratory testing, and the role of education in long-term wellness. His work reflects Riordan Clinic’s commitment to co-learning and whole-person care. Learn more about Dr. RonDrew Rose, DODr. Drew Rose is a physician at Riordan Clinic who brings a background in internal medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) to his work with co-learners. His approach integrates structural assessment, lifestyle guidance, and preventive thinking to support individualized care. Dr. Drew is committed to helping individuals understand their health patterns, build resilience, and participate actively in their healing journey. His work reflects the clinic’s emphasis on partnership, education, and whole-person wellness. Learn more about Dr. DrewEpisode Links and ResourcesExplore integrative health services at Riordan ClinicBegin your journey as a new co-learnerListen to more episodes of the Real Health PodcastEpisode Chapters00:00 Welcome00:57 Introducing the conversation02:05 Highlights from 34 years at Riordan Clinic03:02 Early RECNAC research and growing visibility05:10 How lab testing supports individualized care08:44 The evolution of integrative oncology10:30 The next generation of Riordan Clinic providers12:23 The importance of co-learning and connection15:35 Emerging needs in metabolic and chronic illness support17:24 Understanding the long-term impact of prolonged illness19:15 Imagining the next 50 years of integrative health21:56 The role of preventive and whole-person perspectives24:04 Closing reflectionsDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.Topics covered in this episode:integrative health, co-learning, Riordan Clinic future, RECNAC research, integrative oncology, metabolic health, chronic illness, long COVID, laboratory investigation, preventive care, patient partnership, Kansas integrative medicine, Wichita health community, whole-person perspectives, root-cause inquiry, provider education

“You’ve got to have a really good imagination to see the bigger picture.” —Dr. Ron HunninghakeIn this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Ron Hunninghake and Dr. Michelle Niesley discuss how medical thinking has shifted over the decades and how those shifts have shaped the Riordan Clinic. They revisit the first, second, and third “medical revolutions,” what each one focused on, and how the clinic continues to blend scientific understanding with whole-person context.They share stories from the early years with Dr. Hugh Riordan and Mrs. Olive Garvey, and how their partnership set the tone for curiosity, education, and co-learning. Dr. Ron and Dr. Michelle also reflect on the next phase of the clinic’s work and what they hope to see as a new generation of providers steps forward.Throughout the conversation, they reflect on why context matters, why listening is essential, and how imagination helps widen our view of health, people, and the world around us.Ron Hunninghake, MDDr. Ron Hunninghake is the Chief Medical Officer of Riordan Clinic and has been with the clinic for more than 35 years. He earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and has lectured internationally on nutrition, whole-person perspectives, and the history of orthomolecular thinking. His work centers on patient education and co-learning.Michelle Niesley, ND, MS, FABNODr. Michelle Niesley is the Chief Executive Officer of Riordan Clinic. She earned her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University and a Master of Science from Dartmouth College, with a focus on biostatistics and epidemiology. She brings more than two decades of experience in integrative medicine, clinical leadership, and evidence-informed patient care.Episode Links & ResourcesWatch the episode on YouTubeLearn more about Riordan ClinicBecome a new patient at Riordan ClinicListen to more episodes of the Real Health PodcastEpisode Chapters00:00 Welcome01:10 How medical thinking has shifted03:42 Whole-person perspectives05:25 Left brain, right brain, and seeing the whole picture08:28 Imagination and the wider view09:42 The three generations of Riordan Clinic12:48 Dr. Ron’s reflections on his years at the clinic14:38 Looking ahead15:59 Why co-learning remains importantDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.Topics covered in this episode:integrative health, medical history, whole-person perspectives, co-learning, Riordan Clinic history, Dr. Hugh Riordan, Olive Garvey, sustained illness, patient context, provider communication, health education, Kansas health, Wichita community

“OMM helps us look beyond the place where pain shows up and understand what may be contributing to it.” —Dr. Drew RoseIn this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Ron Hunninghake, MD, sits down with Drew Rose, DO, to explore how Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) offers a hands-on way of understanding the body’s structure and movement patterns. Dr. Drew explains how structure and function are interconnected, why touch can offer insight that standard testing may not provide, and how OMM can be used as part of an individualized approach for people navigating chronic pain, headaches, fatigue, inflammatory conditions, COPD, fibromyalgia, and other complex concerns.He also shares lessons from his years practicing hospital and ICU medicine, including why one-size-fits-all care often falls short—and how osteopathic principles offer a deeper perspective on what the body may be signaling.Highlights include:→ What OMM is and how it differs from chiropractic care→ Why osteopathic medicine focuses on structure and function→ How foot and gait mechanics can influence low back pain→ What NASA research revealed about cranial motion→ How hands-on assessment can offer a different perspective than imaging alone→ Using OMM within individualized care for chronic and complex concerns→ The role of lymphatic flow, fascia, and subtle motion→ How OMM complements the Riordan Clinic approach to whole-person careAbout Drew Rose, DODrew Rose, DO, is an internal medicine physician with advanced training in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine. Before joining Riordan Clinic, he spent six years practicing hospital and ICU medicine in Kansas. He brings a whole-person, hands-on approach to patient care, integrating structural evaluation, osteopathic principles, and nutritional insights to support alignment, mobility, and overall well-being. Learn more about Dr. Drew or schedule a new patient appointment.Episode Links & ResourcesLearn more about the Riordan ClinicListen to more episodes of the Real Health PodcastEpisode Chapters00:00 Welcome + introducing OMM01:10 MD vs DO vs chiropractic training02:46 Structure, function, and whole-body evaluation04:18 Low back pain and the kinetic chain06:01 Foot mechanics and alignment07:34 Cranial motion, NASA research, and headaches10:14 OMM and migraines12:19 Foundational osteopathic principles14:11 OMM in chronic and complex experience17:22 Nervous system sensitization and subtle motion20:05 Individualized care in hospital medicine22:12 How OMM complements whole-person careDisclaimerThe information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast.Topics we explore in this episode:osteopathic medicine, OMM, osteopathic manipulative medicine, cranial motion, cranial rhythmic impulse, chronic pain, migraines, headaches, low back pain, gait mechanics, kinetic chain, lymphatic flow, fascia, COPD, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, integrative medicine, functional medicine, hands-on medicine, individualized care, whole-person health, Riordan Clinic providers, structural alignment, root-cause perspective