Trending Topics

‘Release of calmness’: Detailing the procedure helping firefighters manage PTSD

Firefighter Paul Duran shares his stellate ganglion block experience, and Dr. Jim Lynch explains the science behind the procedure

“The calmness comes because the fire alarm in the brain has stopped flogging your body.” That’s how Dr. Jim Lynch describes the effect of a stellate ganglion block — an injection he says turns off the unproductive and chronic fight-or-flight response experienced by many firefighters with PTSD or anxiety conditions. Dr. Lynch details the science behind the procedure, and Firefighter Paul Duran shares not only his experience the SGB procedure but also what made him seek out this treatment in the first place.

This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by TheFireStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting TheFireStore. And don’t miss these upcoming savings:

Independence Day (ALL Brands)

  • 10% off sitewide
  • Dates: 7/1-7/4
  • Code: REDWHITEBLUE
  • Exclusions

Member Appreciation Week (TFS)

  • 12% off sitewide + free shipping on $120+
  • Dates: 7/7-7/11
  • Code: MEMBERPERKS
  • Exclusions

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. You can also follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to your podcasts. And email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback.


 
Previously on the Better Every Shift Podcast
Zapp, a human performance researcher and retired firefighter, talks health monitoring, smart (and safe) exercise, creatine supplements and more
Health & Wellness Resources
The Center serves fire service leaders looking for credible insight to inform policy, strategy and organizational change
It’s that time of year when fire departments across the country engage in a different kind of light display; send us a snapshot of your station’s holiday decorations!
The model blends red light therapy, infrared sauna and cold immersion into a synergistic system designed to support firefighter health
The decontamination unit comes with four exercise bikes specifically designed not to off-gas in the heat
Making the annual visits mandatory reduces stigma, normalizes care and ensures that those most at risk don’t avoid needed support
Explore the most-popular resources of the year, from tactical guidance and command insights to station planning and wellness support
Staffing takes time, but a rehab station addresses members’ critical health need right now
How high-drive, disaster-ready dogs train, deploy and partner with handlers to support complex search operations
Hansel had a million-dollar nose and a sandwich problem
Snow can hinder the size-up, hiding dangers and firefighter tools, and requires more effort to effect a fire attack, making rehab a must