From Sympathy to Empathy: A 2023 Editorial

Dr. Tom reflects on athlete resilience and empathy in healthcare in this November/December 2023 editorial. His unexpected health challenge reshapes his view of sympathy and empathy, before he introduces the issue’s contributors.

Can we do everything right and still face setbacks?

I wonder if you have ever heard the adage “You can play to the top of your game. You can do everything right. You can make no mistakes, and still lose?” Whenever I see an unfortunate situation in my Practice, or in my personal life, I find myself mulling this over. Recently, however, it seems to have struck home in an up-close-and-personal-way…

How has being an athlete shaped my perspective?

I’ve always been an athlete… I was a “four-letterman” in high school… I’ve been in discomfort, in pain, I’ve been hurt, and I’ve even been injured, but I’ve always bounced back. I’ve seen others in my Practice over the years who have had similar experiences. I’ve also had the unenviable task of helping athletes with career-ending injuries.

But, through it all, I’ve always been comfortable being on the “right side” of the stethoscope… Frankly, as is so common among doctors, I am a…” difficult”… patient.

I make mention of my life-long history of activity and athletics to allow some insights that I am not an “11th hour convert” to taking care of myself. Essentially, I have “played to the top of my game, done everything right, made no mistakes” and yet, I find myself fighting against something I cannot shoot back at…

How did my perspective move from sympathy to empathy?

They say that “It’s not the age, it’s the mileage”…and I’ve certainly got a few miles under my belt… However, I’ve just been diagnosed with Macular Degeneration… Frustratingly, it is both progressive, and incurable (thus far).

I hope to mediate its progression with several therapeutic interventions, but no expectation to return to 20/20 vision…

My family and my colleagues have (lovingly) suggested that this is to be expected for “someone of my age”…(Grrrr!). My research has revealed a significant genetic connection, as my late father was also a patient.

So, I will continue to keep “an eye” (lol) on the latest research findings while I continue to perform my ADLs, both personal and professional, as usual. Forgive all of this drama, but I wanted to admit that I feel I have been blessed with a greater appreciation for what some of my patients have experienced. The needle seems to have moved from sympathy through to empathy…

What is in the November/December 2023 issue?

But, enough about that. What do we have to offer in this issue of Muscle Media Magazine…?

As a veteran myself (former Naval Aviator), I have a special place in my heart for my veteran Brothers and Sisters. With that in mind, Bethany gives us a very special investigation into the therapeutic use of exercise to address the problem of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in veterans. For those of you interested in supplements, Dae gives us a primer on the function and uses of chlorophyll.

Barrett discusses the complex arena of protein in its various forms and sources. Anne, our resident entertainment expert from the Training Table details the function of, necessity for, and importance of magnesium in our daily nutrition.

Although not yet regarded as a “supplement”, Nolan explores the therapeutic (and ergogenic) use of CBD as well as THC from cannabis.

Bridging the gap between nutrition and training, Taylor investigates the perils and implications of the obesity epidemic.

Then, in the training arena, Christopher introduces us to the growing popularity of the hybrid sport of Powerbuilding. Anna describes the processes involved in High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). Olivia explores the use of exercise as a viable therapeutic intervention for cancer patients. Orlando investigates the explosive world of plyometric training and its relative efficacy relative to desired outcomes.

Natasha investigates the exciting developments in the use of various exercise techniques to assist those suffering from spinal cord injuries. Lance takes us into the somewhat lesser-known world of professional surfing and its recent rise on the world stage. Camden explains the role of the hip muscles, the hip flexors in particular, as an often-overlooked area of training attention. Haylee looks into the use of ultrasound and electric stimulation in the rehabilitation community.

Finally, Natalia gives an overview of some new fitness “wearables” to help track progress during our respective fitness journeys…

How do I respond with renewed vision and purpose?

I hope you do as I do and refuse to simply fade away as wear & tear takes its toll. I, for one, will not go quietly into the night… Train with renewed vision and purpose, but always keep the Faith…!

Cheers…!

-Dr. Tom