Premier Pain Talk

New Procedures in Pain Management

In this episode of Premier Pain Talk, Dr. Michael Danko explores some of the newest advancements in pain management now available at Premier Pain Treatment Institute and Premier Surgical Institute.  Dr. Danko discusses three innovative procedures designed to help patients find long-term relief when conservative treatments are no longer enough: Basivertebral Nerve Ablation, a breakthrough option for chronic vertebrogenic low back pain; RF Blade, an advanced approach to targeted nerve treatment; and LIFT, a minimally invasive procedure offering new hope for patients suffering from spinal stenosis.  Learn how these cutting-edge techniques work, which patients may benefit most, and how modern pain management continues to evolve to improve mobility, function, and quality of life. Whether you're a patient exploring treatment options, a healthcare professional interested in emerging procedures, or simply curious about the future of pain management, this episode provides valuable insight into the next generation of spine care.

Spinal Cord Stimulators for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

This week, Dr. Danko partnered with Medtronic to discuss Spinal Cord Stimulators for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. This was originally an in-person lecture that was also live-streamed which we're releasing as a special episode of Premier Pain Talk. If you have any questions about any of the topics discussed in this week's episode, please send us a message at premierpaintreatment.com!

Dr. Danko Talks Pain Pumps

Premier Pain went a bit viral this week on TikTok with a video of a wonderful patient having her pain pump refilled! Along with all the attention came plenty of questions from people interested in the procedure. On this week's episode of Premier Pain Talk, Dr. Michael Danko addresses the most common questions that we received in the comments on our viral video!

From Fellowship to Private Practice

In this episode of Premier Pain Talk, Dr. Michael Danko sits down with Dr. Wesley Youngblood to discuss his journey from fellowship to joining Premier Pain Treatment Institute in July 2025. Dr. Youngblood reflects on his decision-making process when choosing between private practice, academics, and hospital-based medicine, and shares what ultimately led him to pursue private practice. Dr. Youngblood offers insight into what it’s like building a patient base from the ground up, how he’s worked with the internal marketing team to introduce himself to the community, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Whether you’re a physician in training, a new provider entering practice, or simply curious about life after fellowship, this episode provides an honest look at the transition into private practice and the professional growth that comes with it. Resources: Premier Pain Treatment Institute [https://www.premierpaintreatment.com] Follow us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/PremierPainTreatment] Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/ppti_cincinnati/] Follow us on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@premierpaintreatmentinstitute] Follow us on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@ppti_cincinnati]

Is Tramadol Still Worth Prescribing? Dr. Danko Responds to the Latest Study

A recent CNN article and BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine study questioned whether tramadol is effective, or even safe, for chronic pain. In this episode, Dr. Michael Danko, founder of Premier Pain Treatment Institute, offers and informed perspective on the research, its limitations, and what it really means for patients living with chronic pain. Dr. Danko breaks down the difference between short-term clinical trials and long-term patient outcomes, discusses when tramadol has a role in treatment, and emphasizes the importance of individualized care.  Resources: Premier Pain Treatment Institute [https://www.premierpaintreatment.com] Follow us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/PremierPainTreatment] Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/ppti_cincinnati/] Follow us on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@premierpaintreatmentinstitute] Follow us on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@ppti_cincinnati] Tune in to hear how evidence-based medicine, real-world experience, and patient-centered approaches come together in responsible pain management.