The Back Story

What happens when you finally “make it”… and your first thought is still what’s next ? In this episode of The Back Story , Dr. Ricky Singh steps away from medicine to explore a deeper question: when is enough actually enough? From career milestones to marathon goals, we’re wired to chase progress—but what if the finish line keeps moving? This conversation unpacks the psychology behind constant str...

In this episode of The Back Story , Dr. Ricky Singh explores a transformative shift in how we think about aging. Instead of focusing solely on lifespan—how long we live—Dr. Singh reframes the conversation toward healthspan , the quality of those years and our ability to remain active, independent, and engaged well into later life. He challenges the long-held assumption that aging inevitably leads...

What does it mean to build a career in academic medicine—and stay when so many others leave? In this episode, Dr. Jaspal Ricky Singh shares a deeply personal and inspiring reflection on leadership, mentorship, and purpose in modern healthcare. From early defining moments with patients to becoming the last remaining member of his original start group, Dr. Singh offers a rare, candid perspective on...

We’ve all done it—flipped over a food label and made a decision based on calories. But what if that number isn’t as accurate as you think? In this episode, Dr. Jaspal Ricky Singh breaks down the science behind calorie counting—and why it may be more of an estimate than a fact. From the origins of nutrition labels to modern research on metabolism and food absorption, this conversation challenges th...

Colon cancer—also called colorectal cancer when we include the rectum—is tragically common but highly preventable and treatable when caught early. Here’s the headline: colonoscopy doesn’t just find cancer; it prevents it by removing polyps before they turn into cancer. That’s like pulling weeds before they choke the garden. But there’s a problem. Too many people either: Put it off, Think they’re t...

💬 “Diet soda is worse than regular soda.” Myth : Artificial sweeteners are more harmful than sugar. Reality : While not necessarily healthy , diet sodas are generally less harmful than sugary sodas in terms of calorie and sugar content. However, concerns remain about long-term effects of artificial sweeteners on gut health and appetite regulation.  🍷 “Red wine is good for your heart because of r...

From Kevin Durant to Tyrese Haliburton, Jayson Tatum, and Damian Lillard — elite athletes are going down with devastating tendon tears. But why now? What’s changed? And what can be done to prevent these injuries? Let’s break it down. Why Do Tendons Get Injured?   1. Mechanical Overload 2. Tendinopathy and Degeneration 3. Aging and Reduced Blood Flow 4. Biomechanical Imbalances 5. Systemic Risk Fac...

You’ve probably heard of drugs like Ozempic , Wegovy , and Mounjaro . These medications have become household names, not just for managing diabetes, but for their profound impact on weight loss and metabolic health . In this episode, we’ll unpack the mechanism of action , explore the evolution of these drugs, discuss their long-term safety and efficacy , and take a deep dive into how they affect b...

Your spine is a marvel of engineering—33 bones, 100+ joints, and a complex network of muscles and nerves. But it wasn’t built for a sedentary life. In this episode of The Back Story , we explore: Why spinal aging starts in your 30s —and how disc degeneration, muscle loss, and poor posture accelerate it The real culprits behind back pain: not just biology, but lifestyle 7 science-backed strategies...

In this episode of, we dive deep into the science and promise of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy—a regenerative treatment that’s turning heads in orthopedics, sports medicine, and aesthetics.  Whether you're a clinician, athlete, or just curious about cutting-edge healing techniques, this conversation breaks down how PRP works, what the latest research says, and who might benefit most.  We...

What Is Morning Stiffness, Anyway? Morning stiffness is that tight, achy, or creaky feeling in your joints and muscles when you first wake up. It’s most noticeable in the back, neck, hips, knees, and fingers . The stiffness usually eases within 30 minutes—but in some conditions, it can last hours .  Pro Tips for Waking Up Without Stiffness  Stretch in bed before you get up—ankle pumps, knee-to-che...

 If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or disconnected, this episode is for you. So, take a deep breath, and let’s begin this journey together.   Understanding Spirituality Beyond Religion The Power of Acceptance Cultivating Self-Awareness The Role of Community Connection Integrating Spiritual Practices into Daily Life The journey to mental well-being isn’t about perfection; it’s about pro...

So, after breaking it all down, what’s the verdict? Is one of these substances definitively worse than the other? Alcohol has greater short- and long-term health risks, including addiction, organ damage, and cancer. Cannabis has fewer physiological harms but can affect mental health and cognitive function. Cannabis has legitimate medical applications, whereas alcohol does not. Social and legal acc...

Let’s be clear: Cardio is NOT bad. It has benefits. But if your goal is to live longer, move better, and stay independent , strength training should be your priority. Here’s why: Cardio Alone: 🚴‍♂️ ❌ Burns muscle along with fat ❌ Does little for bone density ❌ Minimal impact on metabolism after the workout Resistance Training: 💪 ✅ Builds and preserves muscle ✅ Strengthens bones and joints...

In this episode, we dive into the world of osteoporosis, a condition that silently weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures. We’ll explore how osteoporosis is diagnosed, including the role of bone density tests, risk factors to watch for, and the importance of early detection. Then, we’ll break down the latest treatment options, from lifestyle modifications and dietary strategies to medic...

In this special edition, we reflect on the lessons of the past year and explore how to approach the year ahead with purpose and positivity. 🎙️ In this episode, we cover: The power of setting intentions versus resolutions. How small, consistent actions can lead to big changes. Strategies for staying motivated and overcoming obstacles. The importance of reflection and gratitude in personal growth. W...

Running a marathon is one of the most challenging and rewarding endeavors a person can undertake. It’s not just about crossing the finish line; the journey involves months of rigorous training, mental fortitude, and spiritual introspection. While the marathon itself is a singular event, the preparation process profoundly impacts physical, mental, and spiritual health. This episode explores the ben...

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s nearly impossible to avoid screens. Whether it’s our smartphones, computers, tablets, or TVs, we are constantly plugged into the digital realm. While these devices offer convenience and connectivity, they also come with a hidden cost to our mental and physical well-being. This has led to a growing movement toward digital detoxing—intentionally s...

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has garnered significant attention over the past decade as a promising treatment modality for various musculoskeletal conditions. PRP, an autologous concentration of platelets in plasma, leverages the body’s natural healing mechanisms. The rationale behind PRP therapy is based on the pivotal role of platelets in wound healing and tissue repair through the release...

In this episode, we delve into the latest advancements in medical science and explore how they can transform our lives.  From stem cell therapy to tissue engineering, regenerative medicine holds the promise of revolutionizing healthcare by harnessing the body’s own healing powers. So, let’s embark on this journey together and unlock the future of medicine. What is Regenerative Medicine? At its cor...

Here are the answers to all of your questions—including exactly how to get started. What is the macro diet? The idea behind the macro diet is pretty simple: Instead of staying under a calorie threshold, you focus on getting a certain number (typically grams) of macronutrients—protein, carbohydrates, and fat—instead. Depending on your goals, you can adjust the amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and...

Today, we explore the profound difference between sympathy and empathy, and how understanding these distinctions can significantly impact our interactions and overall wellness. 1. Sympathy: Feeling for, not with Sympathy involves recognizing another person's suffering and expressing care or concern for their well-being. However, it doesn't necessarily entail truly understanding or sharin...

There are many ways to measure body fat percentage. However, the most accurate measurements aren’t available at home. While it’s natural to want objective feedback on your progress, body weight shouldn’t be your main focus. Some “overweight” people are healthy, while others with “normal weight” are unhealthy. However, your body fat percentage tells you what your weight is comprised of. Specificall...

Today's episode is all about kickstarting the new year with a commitment to a healthier lifestyle.    Whether you're a seasoned health enthusiast, or just starting out on your wellness journey,   I've got some great tips and insights for you. 1: Reflection and Goal Setting 2: Nutrition and Hydration  3: Exercise and Movement  4: Mental and Emotional Well-being  5: Building Healthy H...

The Pros and Cons of Protein Supplements Pros Convenience: Protein supplements, such as protein powders and shakes, offer a convenient and quick way to meet daily protein requirements, especially for individuals with busy lifestyles. Muscle Growth and Repair: Adequate protein intake is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein supplements, particularly those rich in essential amino acids, ca...