In this episode of The Neuromodulation Podcast, host Mandi Soleil speaks with Dr. Erika Petersen, functional neurosurgeon and Professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, about the evolving role of neuromodulation in painful diabetic neuropathy.Dr. Petersen delves into why this condition remains so difficult to treat with medications alone, and how spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is expanding therapeutic options for patients with limited relief.You’ll also hear insights on patient selection, device optimization, MRI considerations, peripheral versus spinal approaches, and how emerging tools like remote monitoring and AI may shape the future of care.Resources mentioned on the show:Effect of High-frequency (10-kHz) Spinal Cord Stimulation in Patients With Painful Diabetic Neuropathy: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2777806

In this episode of The Neuromodulation Podcast, Prof. MarcRusso speaks with Dr. Robert Levy about the placebo effect in neuromodulation and its long-standing role in spinal cord stimulation and deep brain stimulation research. The discussion highlights how placebo responses maysignificantly influence outcomes in DBS for Parkinson’s disease, and how specific factors can amplify or reduce both placebo and nocebo effects.Dr. Levy also addresses the challenges of misinformation, the importance of clear patient education, and how psychological support may help optimize outcomes in neuromodulation practice.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Diana Martinez, a psychiatrist specializing in addiction research and translational approaches to treatment.We explore her journey from pharmacology to neuromodulation and how this shift led to investigating TMS as a potential therapy for substance use disorders.You’ll hear insights from Dr. Martinez’s research, highlighting how H-coil TMS may help reduce cocaine-seeking behavior, alongside key safety considerations and the broader challenges of comorbidities, early diagnosis, and access to care.

In this inspiring podcast episode, Prof. Marc Russo speaks to Prof. Dirk De Ridder about the curiosity and clinical challenges that led him from medical school into neurosurgery, and ultimately to pioneering work in neuromodulation.Prof. De Ridder recounts how a key insight combined with the idea of “mimicking nature,” led to the development of an innovation. What started as a solution for tinnitus grew, through collaboration, into broader applications in pain and spinal cord therapy.The discussion goes beyond technology, exploring how creativity actually works and also offers a practical perspective on turning ideas into impact.

In the latest episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, we hear from INS President Prof. Konstantin Slavin on why facial pain is uniquely complex and why accurate diagnosis is critical before considering neuromodulation. The conversation highlights key stimulation targets while also exploring programming challenges and the future potential of AI and closed-loop systems.Don’t miss this focused discussion on clinical decision-making, patient selection, and where neuromodulation fits in the facial pain treatment pathway.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Mandi Soleil speaks with Dr. Natty Oranicha Jumreornvong whose multidisciplinary work spans medicine, technology, writing, and media consulting. Dr. Jumreornvong shares what led her to specialize in rehabilitation and interventional pain, and to building AI and VR tools for both trainee procedure simulation and patient pain management with multilingual access and ethical safeguards. The conversation also covers neuromodulation’s role in her practice, barriers to adoption among diverse populations, and efforts to make AI and treatment recommendations more transparent.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, Prof. Marc Russo speaks with Dr. Kiran Patel about the state of gender balance in neuromodulation and how overt and subtle biases can influence training, confidence, and career progression. They discuss how concerns around fluoroscopy exposure and challenging workplace environments may deter women from entering the field.Dr. Patel highlights the importance of mentorship, advocacy, and proactive inclusion efforts, and shares insights on local and international opportunities for structured mentorship and career development support. The conversation also explores global variations in barriers and the value of diverse perspectives in strengthening patient care and scientific advancement.Don’t miss this timely and thoughtful discussion on building a more inclusive and resilient neuromodulation community.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Prof. Marc Russo speaks with Prof. Jean-Pierre Van Buyten to explore the evolution of intrathecal therapy over the past 30 years. Prof. Van Buyten reflects on his journey from the early days of pain management to the modern advancements shaping neuromodulation today. Discover the implications of microdosing and learn about the critical importance of organized service delivery and interdisciplinary collaboration for optimal patient outcomes.Tune in for an in-depth exploration of the advancements shaping the future of neuromodulation and pain management.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Mandi Soleil is in conversation with Dr. Julie Pilitsis, who shares her remarkable journey into medicine and the field of neuromodulation. Dr. Pilitsis shares insights on her roles as a clinician, mentor, and educator, and highlights the advances and challenges in neuromodulation therapies. This in-depth interview also touches on navigating career barriers, gender diversity in the field and the evolution of the field. Tune in now to gain valuable perspectives on strategies for time management, leadership, and team building in both clinical and research settings.This episode was recorded during The 16th INS World Congress (INS2024) in Vancouver, Canada. At the time, Dr. Konstantin Slavin was President-Elect.

In this episode of the Neuromodulation Podcast, host Prof. Marc Russo and Prof. Frank Huygen delve into the complexities of running an academic neuromodulation and pain department. Prof. Huygen discusses the multifaceted responsibilities of a departmental head, and shares insights on the work-life balance conundrum, securing research funding, and transitioning leadership roles in academic settings. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on the challenges and rewards of leading in the field of neuromodulation.