In this episode, TJ sits down with Dr. Tim Deer, a pioneering pain management physician who has been at the forefront of interventional spine care for over 30 years. Dr. Deer shares his unique perspective on the evolution of pain management, from the early days when treatment options were limited to epidurals, opioids, and major surgery, to today's landscape where minimally invasive procedures are transforming patient care. He opens up about the historical resistance between pain physicians and spine surgeons, and how those barriers are finally breaking down through collaboration, evidence-based data, and a shared commitment to patient outcomes.

The conversation explores Dr. Deer's vision for the future of spine care, including his work with the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) to create comprehensive certification programs that ensure proper training for minimally invasive procedures. He discusses emerging technologies in disc regeneration, the role of AI and big data in predicting optimal treatment pathways, and why he believes the convergence of interventional pain management and spine surgery represents the future of musculoskeletal care. Drawing parallels between his experiences as a multi-time Ironman finisher and the collaboration needed in medicine, Dr. Deer emphasizes that just as no single sport makes the best athlete, no single specialty has all the answers; it's about finding balance through working together to deliver the best possible care for patients.