Episode #88 The Diagnostic Trick That Separates Muscle Pain From Tendon Pain

Most athletes train the muscle and ignore the tendon until something snaps. Dr. Dustin Glass and Dr. Pawen Dhokal break down the difference between muscle belly work and true tendon loading, and why the fix is not just “more reps.”If you work with athletes, lift regularly, rehab injuries, or coach anyone who keeps pulling the same hamstring, this conversation will change how you think about strength, recovery, and injury prevention. Dustin and Pawen get practical fast, moving from football-season hamstring issues to the overlooked loading strategies that actually build tendon capacity.You’ll discover: Why tendon problems are often the real weak link behind “muscle pulls” The difference between muscle loading and tendon loading How isometrics, eccentrics, and heavy slow resistance each play a different role Why 30 seconds is not the same as 60 to 120 seconds when it comes to tendon work How Nordic hamstring curls, calf eccentrics, glute bridges, and controlled progressions fit into a smarter warm-up and rehab plan How to spot tendon involvement versus muscle belly pain, and why hamstring pain can also involve bursa irritation or specific fiber patterns The guys also get into how diagnostic thinking sharpens treatment. Dustin explains the value of precise orthopedic testing and differentials, while Pawen walks through how he tests angle changes, resistance, and movement patterns to figure out whether the issue is muscle, tendon, or something else entirely.This episode also touches on real-world performance takeaways from football training, force testing, asymmetry, and why even elite athletes can be far from balanced. If you want better movement, stronger tendons, and fewer soft tissue surprises, this one is packed with actionable insight.Essential listening for athletes, trainers, chiropractors, PTs, and anyone tired of treating the same “pulled muscle” over and over. Dr. Dustin Glass, DC, CCSP, brings deep sports medicine and diagnostic expertise, with a strong focus on orthopedic testing, biomechanics, and athlete care. Dr. Pawen Dhokal, D.C., contributes hands-on rehab insight from the field, including practical strength progressions and performance testing strategies used with real athletes.Available on all platforms including Apple & Spotify. Follow and watch us on Instagram, Tik Tok, & You Tube! IG & Tik Tok: @SecondOpinionSportsMed