What if surgery and virtual reality could dramatically reduce phantom limb pain?
On this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland sits down with Dr. Glenn Gaston, orthopedic hand and upper-extremity surgeon, to explore groundbreaking innovations in amputee care — including the Starfish Procedure and a virtual reality treatment for phantom limb pain.
Dr. Gaston shares how a life-changing patient experience led him to build a dedicated amputee clinic and push beyond century-old methods of care. We dive into:
- The Starfish Procedure — restoring individual finger control for partial hand amputees
- A non-opioid VR therapy that reduces phantom limb pain by up to 50% in a single session
- Targeted Muscle Reinnervation (TMR) and advances in prosthetic control
- How VR retrains the brain after limb loss
- Osseointegration and emerging sensory prosthetic technology
- The international Brecon Conference coming to Charlotte this April
- Arms for All and expanding access to upper-limb prosthetics – https://armsforall.org/
Dr. Gaston also shares his journey into amputee care, the inspiration behind his innovations, and why collaboration between surgeons, prosthetists, therapists, and mental health professionals is shaping the future of limb loss recovery.
If you or someone you love is living with limb loss, chronic pain, or exploring prosthetic options — this conversation offers real hope and cutting-edge insight.
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In this episode of the We're Not Stumped podcast, host Mike Bolland announces new social media accounts for this podcast: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WereNotStumpedLimbLossPodcast, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/werenotstumped/. He then dives into two remarkable stories of resilience in the face of amputation. First, he discusses Pointed in the Right Direction, an inspiring memoir from Jeff Soelberg about overcoming life’s challenges after partial hand/finger amputation. Then, we hear the heartwarming story of a 7-year-old boy who, despite having both legs amputated, conquers his fear of swimming and embraces life with courage.
In this episode of the *We're Not Stumped* podcast, host Mike Bolland sits down with Rachel Simukonda from the City of Flagstaff to discuss the city's efforts in promoting inclusive and accessible communities. Rachel shares her insights on Flagstaff's commitment to creating opportunities for people of all abilities, along with her personal experiences in advocating for equity and support in public services. Tune in for a powerful conversation on inclusive employment, adaptive living, and how Flagstaff is leading by example.
Mike Bolland highlights two impactful community events: the NAU Institute for Human Development Resource Fair and the NOB Amputee Support Group's annual picnic at Bethpage State Park. Discover how these events foster inclusivity, provide resources, and offer peer support for individuals with disabilities and amputees. Tune in for discussions on adaptive living, community building, and the power of connection!
