RTTC #165 Is Your Injury All in Your Head?

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Running to the Castle, Dr. Ali tackles the question “Is your injury all in your head?” and answers with a firm no. Using a listener’s calf-pain story as a springboard, she explains how real physiology (sensitized tissues, nerve-related pain, and conditions like CRPS) can persist even when basic imaging looks “normal,” and why stress fractures often require MRI, not X-rays, to diagnose during early symptoms. Drawing on her own experience with orthostatic hypotension and her physical therapy practice, Dr. Ali shows how lack of targeted rehab (e.g., after hip replacement) can leave nerves and soft tissues reactive, fueling long-term pain that’s too often dismissed. She then introduces her Finisher Framework—six pillars that stop the injury cycle: strength work, smart training structure, stretching/mobility, rest and recovery, footwear/equipment, and fueling/hydration—emphasizing that most runners don’t need “more” of everything; they need the right thing. Finally, she flags over-racing and under-resting (like stacking five half marathons in two years) as a common setup for recurring injuries and urges listeners to seek proper assessment and a tailored plan instead of pushing through pain. 6 week Speed ProgramReady to stop panicking about how far ahead of the balloon ladies you are and start actually stopping for character photos? That's what the Back-of-the-Pack Runner's Speed Program is for. Join the Waitlist today to learn more and get first dibs on registration.7 month Stronger. Faster. Finisher. ProgramReady to cross the finish line stronger, faster, and prouder at your next runDisney race? Get personalized support, smarter training, and strategies designed specifically for slow, back-of-the-pack runners who want to build a bigger buffer ahead of the balloon ladies, have time for character photos and energy to enjoy the Disney Parks. Learn more about the Stronger. Faster. Finisher. Program today and be the first to know when doors open!Free ResourcesFollow me on Instagram @rundisneydptJoin the Facebook Community to get training supportCheck out FREE training plans for injury-prone runDisney runners on my website. ...