Behind the Sports Medicine

"The Master's Upgrade Hurt Us": A Candid Conversation with Athletic Trainer Dr. Erin HasslerWhen athletic training shifted to a master's-degree entry requirement, it was supposed to elevate the field. Instead, says 26-year veteran Dr. Erin Hassler, it may have priced athletic trainers out of the market, saddling clinicians with student debt while their pay stayed flat.In this episode, recorded live from the 2026 NATA Convention, Dr. Hassler joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to unpack why she believes the industry pulled the wrong lever, and what it would take to fix the coach-heavy sports model that still puts athletic trainers at the bottom of the hierarchy. An athletic trainer, entrepreneur, educator, and executive coach with 26 years of experience across high school, collegiate, professional, and international settings, Hassler also shares how faith, family, and a refusal to take no for an answer shaped a career built on service to others.The conversation ranges from the Sistahood, the mentorship network she built for women of color in sports medicine, to the lessons she's carried home from working with athletes in Peru, Qatar, the UK, and Canada. Hassler also opens up about her book, GOLD MEDAL DOC: From Goals to GOAT, her newest venture, Sports Toolbox — a certification platform designed to close the gap between athletic trainers and the rest of the care team — and why she believes branding and NIL may be the biggest opportunity athletic trainers are leaving on the table.MEET THE GUESTDr. Erin Hassler - DAT, MBA, MS, ATC, LAT, PES– Athletic Trainer, Entrepreneur, Educator, Executive Coach, and Nationally Recognized SpeakerTOPICS DISCUSSEDBuilding an entrepreneurial career in athletic trainingCreating opportunities through mentorship and networking Building the Sistahood, a mentorship network for women of colorBalancing family, career, and entrepreneurial freedomWhy the master's degree requirement is hurting the professionLessons from international clinical experiencesExpanding athletic trainers' value through branding and NILHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction01:00 – How Different Levels of Sports Medicine Shaped Dr. Hassler's Career03:18 – Bringing a Global Perspective on Athletic Training to a Local Campus04:30 – Sponsor: Beck Bode05:07 – Relationships and Opportunities Originating from NATA08:30 – Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship10:46 – Overcoming Barriers and Building "The Sistahood"14:05 – The Role of Family in Career Success15:52 – Insights from Goals to GOAT19:31 – Lessons from International Sports Medicine23:33 – Staying Relaxed on the Road & Packing Secrets27:42 – The Problem with the Master's Requirement & the Sports Hierarchy32:02 – Collaborative Care vs. Territorial Mindsets34:58 – What Is the Sports Toolbox?38:04 – The Opportunity Athletic Trainers Are Missing: Branding & NIL41:13 – Lightning Round: Mentors, Leadership & SuccessQUOTES:27:52 - “Honestly, I think the master's upgrade hurt us. It significantly impacted the workforce because now you're required to go back into school, obtain all these loans. So now your debt goes up, but your pay doesn't go up … But I truly believe that we didn't change the right entity, right? You’ve got to change the whole sport model.”30:47 - “It comes down to who's a revenue generator and who's not? If you're not making money, I'm not listening to you. How do we know? The NIL of all the kids, right? Now you have student-athletes that make more money than the coach. Right? So we listen to them. We’re not maximizing our NIL opportunities as athletic trainers. And I think with the master's minimum approach, we outpriced ourselves.”LINKSDr. Erin Hassler - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drerinhassler/ Gold Medal Doc - https://goldmedaldoc.com/ GOLD MEDAL DOC: From Goals to GOAT (Gold Medal Doc TM) - https://www.amazon.com/GOLD-MEDAL-DOC-Goals-GOAT-ebook/dp/B09GB64DV9/ The Sistahood - https://goldmedaldoc.com/the-sistahood/ Sports Toolbox - https://www.sportstoolbox.org/ SPONSORSBeck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#AthleticTraining #SportsMedicine #HealthcareEntrepreneurship #NATA2026 #WomenInSportsMedicine

How do you unite, advance, and advocate for an athletic training workforce facing burnout, salary discrepancies, and evolving institutional demands? For National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) President AJ Duffy III, the answer lies in proactive leadership, active listening, and building strategic partnerships across sports, military, and clinical settings.In this episode, recorded live from the 2026 NATA convention, Duffy joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to reflect on a transformative year of leadership under new Executive Director Mollie Pillman and discuss NATA's newly unveiled strategic plan. He details major advocacy wins, including the massive expansion of athletic trainers in the U.S. Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) program and the rapid legislative progress toward interstate licensure compacts.Duffy addresses pressing workforce issues like collegiate schedule shifts and gender pay equity. He also shares actionable advice for young professionals on mentorship, risk-taking, and why sometimes the best career move is simply talking to someone who has been there before.MEET THE GUESTAJ Duffy IIIPresident, National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) TOPICS DISCUSSEDExecuting NATA's strategic plan under new leadershipClosing pay gaps through the salary survey and gender equity task forceExpanding athletic training roles in the Army's H2F programAdvancing interstate licensure compacts for workforce mobilityWhy athletic trainers need to strengthen their visibilityMentorship, risk-taking, and advice for the next generationHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction to AJ Duffy III00:53 – Looking Back on the Last 12 Months of NATA02:42 – Listening to Athletic Trainers and Addressing Workforce Issues 04:20 – Sponsor: Beck Bode04:47 – Fast-Tracking Change on Workforce and Salary Issues07:43 – The Impact of Athletic Trainers in the Army's H2F Initiative09:45 – Opportunities for Athletic Trainers in the Coming Years11:18 – A Major Advocacy Win: Interstate Licensure Compacts14:50 – NATA's Focus for the Next 12 - 36 Months17:37 – Career Advice for Students: Mentorship, Networking & Taking Risks26:26 – Lightning Round: Active Listening, Future Outlook & Favorite CitiesQUOTES:09:18 - “I was at the H2F meeting in Hampton, Virginia in May and I met the two generals that are overseeing H2F, and they said, ‘Keep those Athletic trainers coming.’ So we went from potentially losing 180 positions; they want 700 more. That’s just one example of what we can do with a unified voice.”19:26 - “I consistently tell students, I say, ‘Please reach out to us.’ I may have used this phrase last year, but I love using it. I say, ‘We outlawed the horseshoe tackle in football, but it's okay to horseshoe tackle the president of the NATA at meetings like this to have time.”LINKS AJ Duffy III - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aj-duffy-iii-8aa01b6/ NATA - https://www.nata.org/ RELATED EPISODESLeadership, Legacy, and What’s Next For Athletic Training - https://youtu.be/GqvFm25aYGwSPONSORSBeck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#AthleticTraining #NATA2026 #AthleticTrainers #H2FProgram #LicensurePortability

Expensive Urine: Why Most Athletes Are Wasting Money on the Wrong Supplements Athletes are constantly bombarded with supplement recommendations, viral health trends, and conflicting nutrition advice. But how do you know what's actually backed by evidence, what's safe to take, and what could unintentionally harm your performance, or even violate anti-doping rules? According to sports pharmacist Dr. Kaleigh Steelman, most of what's on the shelf is just going to end up as "expensive urine”, and for competitive athletes, picking the wrong product can mean far more than wasted money.In this episode, recorded live at the 2026 NATA Convention, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth are joined by Dr. Steelman and registered dietitian Sean Casey from the Sports Pharmacy Network. Together, they explain why sports pharmacy is one of the most overlooked disciplines in athlete care.The conversation explores why bloodwork should guide supplementation rather than social media trends, how wearable data can both help and hinder athletes, and why optimizing basic health foundations—like diet, sleep, and breathwork—often yields better results than chasing the latest viral supplement. They also dig into the nuances of vitamin D and magnesium dosing, the surprising link between certain antibiotics and Achilles tendon injuries, why GLP-1 use is becoming a growing concern for bone and muscle health, and what athletes should know before trying peptides.MEET THE GUESTSDr. Kaleigh Steelman, PharmD- Director of Research, Sports Pharmacy Network- Sports PharmacistSean Casey, RD - Board Member, Sports Pharmacy Network - Registered DietitianTOPICS DISCUSSED- What sports pharmacy is and how it supports athletes- Evaluating social media trends, supplement claims, and third-party testing- Vitamin D, magnesium, and the science of bioavailability- The impact of breathwork and holistic health practices on performance- Antibiotics, GLP-1s, peptides, and other emerging medication risks- Building relationships between athletic trainers and pharmacistsHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction01:09 – What Is Sports Pharmacy?02:31 – Sponsor: Beck Bode02:57 – A Day in the Life of a Sports Dietitian04:17 – Navigating Diet Fads and Social Media Nutrition Trends05:54 – Common Questions About Supplements07:22 – What to Do If an Athlete Thinks They're Deficient08:58 – Wearable Data and Subjective Athlete Feedback11:33 – When Athletes Become Too Dependent on Data13:07 – Rethinking Vitamin D Reference Ranges16:21 – Understanding Magnesium Forms17:45 – Bioavailability and Different Supplement Formulations19:38 – Barriers and Misconceptions Surrounding Sports Pharmacy21:41 – Cultural Differences in International Athlete Care: Breathwork26:56 – Research Trends to Watch: The Rise of GLP-1s28:52 – The Future of Sports Pharmacy, and Joining the Network31:25 – Medication Risks Every Athlete Should Know33:36 – Managing Risks with Hormone Protocols and TRT33:56 – Hopes for the Future of Sports Pharmacy34:41 – Supplements to Avoid35:56 – Biggest Takeaways for Athletes and Supplement Warnings37:11 – Emerging Compounds: Hype, Evidence, and Anti-Doping Regulations QUOTES:04:41 - “As boring as fruits and vegetables are, about three years ago, I went through every client that I worked with for the previous 20 years — which ranged from high school athletes up to multiple Olympians and pro athletes — to see what had the biggest impact. It's fruits and vegetables.” - Sean Casey07:07 - “Some of the supplements are just going to lead to expensive urine, as I like to say. ‘You're just going to pee it out if it's not necessary in your body.’ Unfortunately, that's what a lot of it is: marketing and the tactics on social media.” - Kaleigh SteelmanLINKS Dr. Kaleigh Steelman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaleigh-steelman-548131224/ Sean Casey - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-casey-cscs-rd-14299520/ Sports Pharmacy Network - https://sportsrxnetwork.com SPONSORSBeck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsPharmacy #SportsNutrition #SportsPharmacyNetwork #SportsPerformance #HumanPerformance

Natural grass has always been the gold standard for athlete performance and safety, but even the best-maintained fields are only playable for 160 to 200 hours a year. For years, sports organizations have turned to synthetic turf to handle high-volume demands; however, standard infill-based turf systems introduce serious risks of their own, subjecting athletes to severe torque and high recoil energy that dramatically increase lower-leg trauma and fatigue.In this episode, recorded live from the 2026 NATA convention, Charles Dawson of TenCate joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to explain how decades of research into athlete biomechanics and playing surfaces have shaped a new generation of synthetic turf designed to address many of those shortcomings. He breaks down how reducing surface recoil and rotational torque may improve athlete availability, why consistency matters just as much as cushioning, and how advances in turf engineering are changing the conversation around injury prevention.Dawson also discusses the environmental benefits of modern turf systems, their growing adoption across professional and collegiate sports, and why he believes the future of athletic fields should be measured by one outcome above all else: keeping athletes healthy, performing at their best, and on the field.MEET THE GUESTCharles Dawson- CEO - Sports Division, TenCate GrassTOPICS DISCUSSED- Why modern turf design is moving beyond infill- Reducing lower extremity injuries through surface engineering- The relationship between torque, recoil, and athlete injury- Why consistent playing surfaces improve athletic performance- The economics and lifespan of modern synthetic turf installationsHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction01:05 – Why Artificial Turf Exists01:53 – How Turf Has Evolved over Time02:49 – Sponsor: Beck Bode03:15 – How New Turf Systems Are Developed04:04 – What Makes TenCate Different from Other Turf05:55 – Designing Turf Around Athlete Safety07:10 – Lower Extremity Injuries and Surface Torque09:00 – The Role of Footwear09:30 – Exploring the Turf-Concussion Connection10:47 – Ball Performance and Other Ball Sports12:16 – Pro Teams, Colleges, and High Schools Adopting Gen 4 Turf13:36 – Turf Lifespan, Sustainability & Environmental Benefits16:07 – Cost Breakdown & Maintenance Comparison18:34 – Lightning Round: Innovation, Myths & Player AvailabilityQUOTES:01:14 - “I tell people all the time, if you've got a budget and you've got good weather and you've got limited use, natural grass is perfect. Even the best natural grass fields in the world are good for 160 to 200 hours a year in total use. Turf gives you unlimited ability to play 24/7.”07:33 - “Natural grass is considered a low torque field. And the pivot turf mimics the torque level of natural grass. So those would be the same. What the NFL said is in 1000 foot impacts on a low torque field, there's 4.2 chances of lower leg trauma every. If you go to high rubber, it goes up almost 500% to over 19.”LINKSCharles Dawson on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-dawson-63114590/TenCate - https://www.tencategrass.com/NATA Convention - https://convention.nata.org/SPONSORSBeck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comDISCLAIMERThe opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SyntheticTurf #TurfVsGrass #NATA2026 #PlayerAvailability #SportsPerformance

Nervous system regulation has become a popular topic in sports performance, but what does it actually mean, and how do you know if you have achieved it? According to nervous system coach, licensed trauma therapist, and former D1 athlete Emily Perrin, true regulation isn't about being calm 100% of the time; it’s about building a flexible mind-body system that has the capacity to navigate stress and return to balance. In this episode, Perrin joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to discuss the science behind the autonomic nervous system and explain why it plays a central role in athletic performance, injury recovery, resilience, and mental health. Perrin unpacks how trauma can shape an athlete's performance, the powerful influence parents and coaches have on an athlete's nervous system, and why youth sports' obsession with winning and pay-to-play models may be doing lasting harm to young athletes. She also shares practical strategies athletes can use to better navigate pressure, anxiety, and recovery.MEET THE GUESTEmily Perrin, LCSW-CCEO & Founder, Perrin Wellness & PerformanceCo-Founder, The Unbroken Athlete Nervous System & Performance Coach and Licensed Clinical Trauma TherapistTOPICS DISCUSSEDWhat nervous system regulation really means for athletesBuilding resilience through regulation, relationships, and resourcesThe connection between trauma, recovery, and sports performanceHow youth sports culture shapes athlete wellbeingThe influence of parents and coaches on nervous system regulationCreating healthier environments for long-term athletic developmentPractical strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and performance pressureHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction to Emily Perrin00:54 – What Is Nervous System Regulation?03:40 – Sponsor: Beck Bode04:07 – Connecting Nervous System Regulation to Sports Performance07:40 – Simple Strategies to Help Athletes Regulate Their Nervous Systems 10:58 – What Does Resilience Actually Mean? 13:08 – Understanding Trauma Within the Context of Sport16:24 – How Sports Environments Create Stress and Unhealthy Coping Patterns21:03 – Maintaining Competitive Excellence While Prioritizing Wellbeing 24:01 – The Role of Team Culture in Athlete Wellbeing29:12 – Co-Regulation in Coaching and Parenting 32:59 – Advice for Parents Supporting Young Athletes Under Pressure38:38 – Lightning Round: The Power of the Pause, Sleep Hygiene & Favorite Books45:20 – A Message for Athletes Struggling with Stress and AnxietyQUOTES:06:07 - “I think in sport, we have for a very long time treated the physical — technical, tactical conditioning, speed, agility training — separate from the mental and emotional side of sport. And the reality is we just don't work that way.” 45:50 - “I think the biggest myth that we've sold athletes is that, again, being mentally tough, being resilient, is getting to this place where you never struggle with things, you never get anxious, you never get to a place where you're overwhelmed, and that just couldn't be farther from the truth.”LINKS Emily Perrin - https://www.instagram.com/former.athlete.therapist Perrin Wellness & Performance - https://www.perrinwellnessperformance.comThe Unbroken Athlete - https://www.theunbrokenathlete.com RELATED EPISODESStop Blaming Her Hormones — The Real Cause of ACL Injuries in Female Athletes - https://youtu.be/Eb2Dm9xzfZg?si=DDCgGbA2m-318vne SPONSORBeck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#NervousSystemRegulation #AthleteWellbeing #YouthSportsCulture #SportsPsychology #MentalHealthInSports

Why are pitching injuries continuing to rise exponentially despite rapid advancements in sports science and tech? According to baseball development innovator Casey Mulholland, the industry is breaking a fundamental principle of human physiology by leaning into excessive, unpredictable loads without allowing the body time to adapt. In this episode, Mulholland joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to challenge some of baseball's most widely accepted injury prevention strategies. Drawing on his own career-ending injuries, years of professional player development, and hundreds of thousands of tracked throws, Mulholland argues that pitch counts alone offer a dangerously incomplete picture of an athlete's workload. He breaks down why velocity has become an unfair scapegoat for arm injuries, the tension between objective data and coaching intuition, and his concerns about how private equity money is reshaping youth baseball and the potential long-term effects on athletic development.MEET THE GUESTCasey Mulholland- Founder, Kinetic Pro Performance- Expert in Pitching Workload Management and Throwing DevelopmentTOPICS DISCUSSED- Why pitch counts fail to measure true throwing workload - The relationship between velocity, mechanics, and injury risk- Balancing objective biometric data with coaching intuition- Bridging communication gaps between orthopedists, PTs, and coaches- The quiet takeover of private equity in youth travel baseball- Why baseball technology suffers from a crucial user-experience problemHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Intro01:06 – How Mulholland's Personal Injuries Influenced His Current Mission03:12 – Sponsor: Boston Orthopedics and Wellness | Beck Bode04:43 – Why Are Pitching Injuries Rising Despite Modern Sports Science?07:03 – Is Workload Management the New Buzzword?08:32 – Does Chasing Velocity Cause More Injuries?14:30 – Valgus Torque Protocols and the True Capacity of the UCL19:13 – Why Traditional Pitch Counts and Guidelines Are Flawed 25:57 – Building a Better Workload Management System31:19 – Better Collaboration Between Coaches and Medical Providers34:22 – Advice for Orthopedic Surgeons Treating Young Pitchers41:20 – Balancing Objective Data with Coaching Intuition46:51 – Inside the New KP App49:39 – The Rise of Private Equity in Youth Baseball 57:56 – One Change Mulholland Wants to See in Baseball59:13 – Lightning Round: Favorite Pitchers, Fishing Analogies & Shohei Ohtani QUOTES:02:33 - “‘I don't understand. Again, when I was at my strongest, when I had my best mechanics, I got hurt. What do you think caused my injury?’ And he said, ‘Well, I don't know what caused your injury, but there's definitely another category that you're not thinking of. And that's workload management.’" 58:07 - “I'd like to see all throws tracked. Simple as that.”LINKSCasey Mulholland - https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-mulholland-35ab7542 KineticPro Performance - https://www.kineticprobaseball.com MLB Report on Pitcher Injuries, December 2024 - https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25460405-mlb-pitching-injuries/ An Official Response: MLB Report On Pitching Injuries 2024 - https://www.kineticprobaseball.com/the-mlb-injuries-report-of-2024-got-it-wrong/ RELATED EPISODESThe Surgeon Who Saved Sports - Meet Dr. Andrews - https://youtu.be/tkvI56ZiabA?si=ymcmY7dh7m4F5qXy Why “Fixing” a Pitcher’s Mechanics Might Make Them a Worse Player (with Eric Schoenberg) - https://youtu.be/0FdYIW2PcOQ?si=Op_LF3mvvqhq8Zua Curt Schilling on Why Pitching is Broken (and the Real Story Behind the Bloody Sock) - https://youtu.be/Zj9GYxyT3iI?si=WPz-Sy0Pw_h30Aj2 SPONSORSBoston Orthopedics and Wellness helps you recover faster, move better, and perform at your best with advanced orthopedic and wellness care. Get 15% off your first visit: https://www.bostonorthopedicandwellness.com/Beck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#YouthBaseball #SportsMedicine #PitchCounts #WorkloadManagement #InjuryPrevention

Managing the Team Behind the Team: What the Best Sports Medicine Departments Do Differently How do you keep an elite medical staff focused, dialed in, and performing at their absolute highest level across a 162-game season? Instead of focusing on treating players directly, today’s guest instead invests in making the clinicians around him better. In this episode, Corey Tremble, Director of Medical Operations for the Miami Marlins, joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to discuss what it takes to build a high-performing sports medicine team inside a Major League Baseball organization.Drawing on his extensive background working under legendary sports medicine mentors and alongside major front-office figures like Gabe Kapler, Tremble breaks down how the Marlins have revolutionized performance nutrition and why the mental health component of return-to-play is so overlooked. He also dives into the modern velocity epidemic driving new UCL tear patterns, what he prioritizes when scouting new sports medicine talent, and his work as the chair of the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) Cannabis Task Force to build a science-backed educational framework for pain management. MEET THE GUESTCorey Tremble, DAT, LAT, ATCDirector of Medical Operations, Miami MarlinsChair, National Athletic Trainers' Association Cannabis Task ForceTOPICS DISCUSSEDBuilding collaborative sports medicine departments that improve athlete outcomesThe evolution of Tommy John surgery and UCL tear patternsPreventing burnout while leading high-performance medical teamsBuilding a best-in-class nutrition program in professional baseballBridging the education gap around cannabinoids and athlete pain managementDestigmatizing delegation and managing staff burnoutThe future of AI, wearables, and workload management in baseballHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction00:58 – Role of Director of Medical Operations for Miami Marlins02:23 – Keeping Staff Focused over a 162-Game Season04:28 – Sponsor: Beck Bode | Boston Orthopedics and Wellness06:00 – Establishing Collaborative Decision Making09:08 – Communicating with Coaches During Rehabilitation11:04 – Successful Return to Play and the Mental Health Component16:29 – MRI Use and Clinical Judgment19:02 – The Shift in UCL Tear Patterns and Tommy John Surgery24:34 – How Modern Pitching Is Changing Elbow Injuries28:12 – Thoughts on Shohei Ohtani30:06 – Nutrition as a Competitive Advantage34:21 – Technology, Lab Testing & Objective Return-to-Play Metrics36:06 – Hiring Great Athletic Trainers39:14 – The NATA Cannabis Task Force and Educating Athletes44:10 – Managing Burnout and Delegation 48:07 – Where Sports Medicine and Baseball Are Headed51:59 – Lightning Round: Travel, Squats & SleepQUOTES:03:33 - “My goal is to take my unbelievably gifted, intelligent physical therapists and athletic trainers and give them the spotlight, give them the ability to really hone in on what they believe is really important, really give them the opportunity to have a voice and have a vision of what we should do as a department. And that's really what has, in turn, created a better space for our athletes to get better.”46:44 - “It's the mark of bad leadership when you think that you have to do it all. And again, you feel guilty at the start of delegating and asking others on your team to do things that you could very easily do, but that's how they're going to grow.” LINKS Corey S. Tremble on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/trembleatc/ Miami Marlins Official Website – https://www.mlb.com/marlinsNational Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) – https://www.nata.org PBATS Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@pbats RELATED EPISODESThe Surgeon Who Saved Sports - Meet Dr. Andrews - https://youtu.be/tkvI56ZiabA SPONSORSBeck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comBoston Orthopedics and Wellness helps you recover faster, move better, and perform at your best with advanced orthopedic and wellness care. Get 15% off your first visit: https://www.bostonorthopedicandwellness.com/DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsMedicine #AthleticTraining #BaseballMedicine #MLBHealth #MiamiMarlins

Standard X-rays miss this injury 60% of the time, leading many athletes to play through what they assume is just regular wrist soreness, but a hook of hamate fracture can destroy an athlete’s batting mechanics for seasons to come. According to hand and upper extremity surgeon Dr. Nicholas Rose, the modern obsession with home runs and bat speed has caused a drastic uptick in hook of hamate fractures. In this episode, he joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to break down this unique injury.Drawing on decades of experience, Dr. Rose explains how athletic trainers and coaches can identify the subtle warning signs before a player's performance collapses, and why grip strength may be one of the most underutilized screening tools in baseball. The conversation explores diagnostic challenges, treatment options, return-to-play timelines, and the importance of collaboration between surgeons, therapists, athletic trainers, and hitting coaches. Dr. Rose also shares lessons learned from working with NHL players, Red Bull athletes, and some of the highest-level performers in professional sports.MEET THE GUESTDr. Nicholas Rose, MD, FACS- Hand & Upper Extremity Surgeon, Southern California - Medical Consultant for NHL players and Red Bull Extreme Sports athletesTOPICS DISCUSSED- Why modern batting mechanics have increased hook of hamate injuries- The clinical signs athletic trainers and coaches should watch for- Why hook of hamate fractures are frequently missed on standard X-rays- Treatment options, surgery, and return-to-play timelines- The role of grip strength testing in early diagnosis- How collaboration between surgeons, therapists, trainers, and coaches improves outcomes- Lessons from treating professional baseball, hockey, and extreme sport athletesHIGHLIGHTS01:05 – What Is the Hamate Bone and Why Is It Vulnerable?01:54 – Modern Swing Mechanics and the Palmer Hamate Grip04:01 – Baseball's Shift Toward a Power-First Game05:50 – Sponsor: Boston Orthopedics and Wellness | Beck Bode07:22 – Clinical Presentation: How to Spot a Hamate Injury09:07 – Risks of Missed Hook of the Hamate Fracture Diagnosis10:36 – Hamate Fracture Diagnostic Protocols13:44 – Treatment: Casting vs. Surgical Intervention15:20 – Return-to-Play Timeline & Post-Op Rehab16:49 – Interdisciplinary Communication During Rehab18:41 – Adjunct Therapies: PRP, Peptides, Bone Stimulators, etc22:07 – Return to Fielding Timeline23:08 – Regaining Confidence After Surgery24:20 – Prevention and Future Trends in Wrist and Hand Injuries in Baseball26:03 – Can Grip Strength Training Prevent Hamate Injuries?27:54 – Return to Play Lessons from Treating Elite Athletes32:43 – Shohei Ohtani's Unmatched Athleticism35:28 – Lightning Round: Myths, Comebacks & Movies38:46 – Working with Red Bull Extreme Athletes40:03 – Key Hamate Takeaway for Clinicians and AthletesQUOTES:35:38 - “‘Play through the pain.' I think with today's athletic trainers and orthopedic surgeons, there's no excuse for that. Get it checked out. Don't be a hero because you're ultimately hurting yourself in the end.” 36:41 - “I tell patients, ‘Look, my surgery's 50%, and your rehab is 50%, and you have to treat it that way.’ So I would say that the tool of the occupational therapists and the athletic trainers are vital, as vital as the surgeon.”LINKS Dr. Nicholas Rose on LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasrose1214/Dr. Nicholas Rose - https://www.drnicholasrose.com RELATED EPISODESCurt Schilling on Why Pitching is Broken (and the Real Story Behind the Bloody Sock) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zj9GYxyT3iI SPONSORSBoston Orthopedics and Wellness helps you recover faster, move better, and perform at your best with advanced orthopedic and wellness care. Get 15% off your first visit: https://www.bostonorthopedicandwellness.com/Beck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#HookOfHamate #HamateFracture #SportsMedicine #BaseballRehab #HandSurgery

Why “Fixing” a Pitcher’s Mechanics Might Make Them a Worse PlayerThe old-school approach to sports medicine often tries to force every athlete into a standardized box, but when it comes to elite baseball players, that can be counter-productive. According to physical therapist and strength coach Eric Schoenberg, changing a pitcher's natural motor preferences may reduce pain, but it may also make them a worse baseball player.In this episode, Eric Schoenberg, owner of Diamond Physical Therapy, joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth for a wide-ranging conversation on baseball rehabilitation.Drawing on years of elite experience—including overseeing Justin Verlander's historic Tommy John rehabilitation at age 39—Schoenberg explains why protecting an athlete's uniqueness is the key to performance. He breaks down the subtle early warning signs of UCL and flexor pathology, what surgeons overlook during clinical exams, why the term "arm care" is fundamentally misleading, how the scapula and thoracic spine sit at the center of protecting the throwing athlete, and shares his thoughts on the modern youth injury epidemic.MEET THE GUESTEric Schoenberg, PT, CSCSOwner, Diamond Physical Therapy at Cressey Sports Performance FloridaBoard Certified Physical Therapist & Strength and Conditioning CoachSpecialist in baseball athlete rehabilitation and managementTOPICS DISCUSSEDWhy coaching the uniqueness out of an athlete can ruin their performanceThe real drivers behind the youth baseball injury epidemicHow to maximize rehab in the "no-throw" windowThe role of the scapula and thoracic spine in arm healthWhy traditional manual muscle testing fails throwing athletesWhat surgeons, therapists, and athletic trainers can learn from one anotherHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Introduction00:55 – What Makes a Baseball Athlete Unique02:36 – Balancing Athlete Uniqueness with Pain-Free Play05:09 – Sponsor: Beck Bode | Boston Orthopedics and Wellness06:41 – Most Prevalent Upper Extremity Injuries07:40 – Is There a Rise in Youth Throwing Injuries?09:01 – The Role of Physical Therapy in Rehab vs. Injury Prevention11:12 – Turning Back the Clock on Private Equity in Youth Sports14:47 – Early Warning Signs of UCL & Flexor Wad Issues16:51 – Non-Operative Treatments for UCL Injuries19:27 – The Role of Workload Management in Injury Prevention22:03 – Strength vs. Mobility: What Athletes Need at Different Ages24:05 – Incorporating Manual Therapy & Modalities in Recovery26:57 – How Technology Is Changing Baseball Rehab28:55 – Best Piece of Tech for a Clinician to Use31:00 – What Orthopedic Surgeons Often Overlook38:52 – Advice for New Athletic Trainers on Arm Health41:43 – The Importance of Thoracic Mobility46:54 – The Role of FMS in the Evaluation Process48:57 – Lightning Round: Comebacks, Underrated Exercises & Overrated Tools53:36 – Thoughts on Shohei Ohtani's Unicorn Status55:02 – Red Sox or Yankees?QUOTES:01:52 - “Sometimes we view something as, ‘Well, maybe this doesn't look right, or maybe this doesn't match up with another athlete, so therefore we have to change it.' And I think that's something that we need to be really careful about is just not coaching the uniqueness out of somebody, because that's usually what makes them great.”51:50 - “Arm care is a bad name because you don't pitch with just your arm. So whenever anybody says, ‘I've got to do my arm care,’ I cringe because if you're not getting the rest of your body ready to throw, you're generally wasting your time.”LINKS Eric Schoenberg on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-schoenberg-5593a320 Diamond Physical Therapy - https://diamondphystherapy.com Cressey Sports Performance - https://cresseyperformance.comRELATED EPISODESThe Surgeon Who Saved Sports - Meet Dr. Andrews - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkvI56ZiabA Stop Blaming Her Hormones — The Real Cause of ACL Injuries in Female Athletes - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb2Dm9xzfZg&t SPONSORSBeck Bodie is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comBoston Orthopedics and Wellness helps you recover faster, move better, and perform at your best with advanced orthopedic and wellness care. Get 15% off your first visit: https://www.bostonorthopedicandwellness.com/DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsMedicine #BaseballRehab #TommyJohn #PhysicalTherapy #PitchingMechanics

The Real Reason Young Female Athletes Are Getting More ACL InjuriesAdolescent girls are tearing ACLs at alarming rates, particularly in soccer, but the explanation most people reach for is wrong. According to strength coach and former All-American soccer player Erica Mulholland, the problem has far less to do with female anatomy or hormones than most people think.In this episode, Erica Mulholland joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth for a discussion on ACL injuries, strength training, long-term athletic development, and the growing pressures facing young female athletes.Drawing on her experience as a collegiate athlete, semi-professional player in Brazil, and author of the book Female Athlete, Mulholland explains why strength training remains the single biggest missing piece in a female athlete’s development. She challenges popular misconceptions around biomechanics and menstrual cycles, arguing that poor mechanics are often the result of fatigue and inadequate physical preparation, not the root cause of injury itself.The conversation also explores the role of parents and coaches in youth sports, the dangers of overscheduling young athletes, and why one well-designed strength session per week can completely change an athlete’s trajectory.MEET THE GUESTErica Mulholland- Former All-American Soccer Player - Johns Hopkins University- Strength & Conditioning Coach- Author: Female AthleteTOPICS DISCUSSED- Why ACL injuries in girls are more about load management than anatomy- Why strength training is essential for adolescent female athletes- What a well-designed in-season strength programme looks like- The biggest myths surrounding menstrual cycles and ACL injuries- How coaches and parents can better support young athletes- Load management, recovery, sleep, and nutrition for injury preventionHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Intro00:52 – Why ACL Injuries Are So Prevalent in Young Female Athletes03:57 – Sponsor: Boston Orthopedics and Wellness | Beck Bode05:29 – The Impact of Year-Round Youth Sports08:24 – What Needs to Change: Parents, Coaches & Administration14:47 – What a Typical Training Session Looks Like17:33 – Are We Overcomplicating ACL Prevention?21:54 – Getting Buy-In from Coaches, Athletic Directors & Parents25:27 – American vs. International Approaches to the Weight Room27:18 – What Separates a Good Strength Coach from a Bad One28:48 – Training for Endurance in Soccer Athletes30:11 – What Coaches Should Look for in a Strength Training32:21 – When to Start Talking Nutrition and Sleep34:28 – Nutrition and Supplements for Teens38:05 – Best Technology Tools for Assessing Athletes40:30 – Key Takeaways From the Female Athlete45:06 – What Parents Should Prioritize & What Coaches Should Stop Overlooking46:34 – Lightning Round: ACL Reconstruction, Load Management, etc48:57 – Addressing Body Image Fears in the Weight Room50:19 – Other Common Injuries in Young Female Athletes52:45 – The Rise of Compartment SyndromeQUOTES:01:04 - “We used to think it was just a female issue that, girls have wider hips or a larger Q angle and they had different mechanics than males, or there's hormonal factors at play — But it's really more a training load problem.” 06:40 - “I think parents fall into the trap that if they're not on the top team, they're not playing year round, they're not doing skill sessions year round, that their kid will fall behind, and they're not going to be on the top team when they hit puberty. Well, that's not the truth.”LINKSErica Mulholland - https://ericasuter.com Female Athlete High Performance: Building Fast, Strong, and Powerful Female Athletes- https://www.amazon.com/Female-Athlete-High-Performance-Building/dp/B0CN8NJF2F PlayerPulse - https://playerpulseapp.com RELATED EPISODESThe Surgeon Who Saved Sports - Meet Dr. Andrews - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkvI56ZiabA&t SPONSORS- Boston Orthopedics and Wellness helps you recover faster, move better, and perform at your best with advanced orthopedic and wellness care. Get 15% off your first visit: https://www.bostonorthopedicandwellness.com/- Beck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#FemaleAthlete #ACLPrevention #YouthSports #WomensSoccer #StrengthAndConditioning

Why "Just Rest It" Isn't Always the Best Advice for Tennis ElbowTennis elbow (or “lateral epicondylitis”) is widely known as a "country club injury," but treating it can be more complicated than its casual nickname suggests. Beneath this common overuse condition lies a complex web of stubborn tendon pathology and what is usually a grueling 12-to-18-month natural healing timeline.In this episode, athletic trainer Andrew Rizza and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Cameron Roth launch their new, fast-paced Clinical Conversations series by breaking down how they manage tennis elbow and what actually works for long-term relief.The duo unpacks why treating this common overuse injury isn’t always as straightforward as “just resting it.” Dr. Roth explains how he diagnoses tennis elbow in the clinic and the importance of ruling out radial tunnel syndrome. Rizza challenges the "rest and wait" philosophy, advocating instead for targeted, slow-controlled eccentric exercises and manual therapies.The hosts also dive into the controversial role of cortisone injections, the mechanics of KT taping, and when surgery may be necessary.TOPICS DISCUSSEDWhy tennis elbow can take months to fully resolveHow to differentiate tennis elbow from radial tunnel syndromeEccentric loading and rehabilitation strategiesKT taping, dry needling, cupping, and manual therapyThe pros and cons of cortisone injectionsWhen surgery becomes an option for chronic casesHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Clinical Conversations Series Intro00:54 – Symptoms & Presentation of Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)03:19 – Rehab Philosophy & Treatment Approach05:07 – Sponsor: Beck Bode | Boston Orthopedics and Wellness06:38 – Expected Treatment Timelines in Physical Therapy10:38 – The Benefits of KT Tape12:13 – Surgical Candidacy14:40 – Radial Tunnel Syndrome: Treatment & Surgery17:50 – Cortisone Injections for Lateral Epicondylitis19:38 – Topical & Oral Medications21:03 – OutroQUOTES:03:47 - “And we know that rest will ultimately make it better, but we know physical therapy will obviously help it improve at a little bit faster rate if you give it a better environment. But I always look at it as being slow and controlled, eccentric exercise. - Andrew Rizza 08:36 - There are things that can make you feel better temporarily, corticosteroid injections, bracing, dry needling, et cetera. But the thing that may shorten this 12 to 18-month timeframe is therapy. - Dr. Cameron RothSPONSORSBeck Bode is a fee-only fiduciary firm that builds personalized roadmaps to keep your money aligned with your life goals. See what real planning looks like at https://beckbode.comBoston Orthopedics and Wellness helps you recover faster, move better, and perform at your best with advanced orthopedic and wellness care.Get 15% off your first visit: https://www.bostonorthopedicandwellness.com/DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.CONNECT WITH US Have a question or a specific topic that you want covered in an upcoming Clinical Conversations episode? Email: [email protected] Check out our website and social media channels for video clips, episode updates, and more sports science insights.#SportsMedicine #TennisElbow #PhysicalTherapy #OrthopedicSurgeon #LateralEpicondylitis

Curt Schilling’s “bloody sock” became one of the most iconic images in sports history, but the real story behind it is far more medically complex than most fans realise. Beneath the legend was a career defined as much by medical adversity as athletic brilliance: misdiagnosis, pioneering surgery, a season-long ankle injury, and an experimental procedure performed on a trainer's table the night before one of the most famous starts in World Series history.In this episode, six-time MLB All-Star, three-time World Series champion, and postseason pitching legend Curt Schilling joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth for a wide-ranging conversation on elite pitching, sports medicine, and the changing landscape of Major League Baseball.Schilling speaks candidly about refusing to accept a rotator cuff misdiagnosis, seeking a second opinion that led him to pioneering shoulder surgeon Dr. Craig Morgan, and undergoing a SLAP repair in 1995 that was a decade ahead of its time. He explains how deeply understanding his own anatomy transformed his relationship with rehab, recovery, and the medical professionals around him.The conversation also covers the full story behind the bloody sock and the cadaver-tested suture procedure that allowed Schilling to take the mound in Game 6. Plus, his outspoken view on why pitching in today's game is broken, and why the people running baseball already know it.MEET THE GUESTThree-time World Series ChampionSix-time MLB All-Star2001 World Series Co-MVPTOPICS DISCUSSEDThe real medical story behind the “bloody sock” gameThe importance of taking ownership of your own medical careBiomechanical secrets of the pitching kinetic chainWhy rotator cuff recovery takes longer than athletes are toldWhy the modern hunt for velocity has "broken" pitchingThe mentality required for a 3-0 comebackHIGHLIGHTS00:00 – Intro00:50 – Schilling's Career Journey04:42 – Sponsor: Boston Orthopedics and Wellness05:46 – The "Superstar Path" to the Major Leagues Explained09:41 – Mental Toughness in Training and Preparation11:32 – The Benefits of Curiosity12:50 – When Sports Medicine Became Central to Schilling's Career19:33 – Schilling's Post-Surgery Rehab Process23:49 – The Importance of Taking an Interest in Your Health25:54 – Why Schilling Believes That Pitching Is Broken31:13 – How the Game Has Changed from a Pitching Perspective33:17 – Shohei Ohtani: The Ultimate Pitcher–Hitter Unicorn34:47 – Recovery & Preparation Across a Season36:21 – Relationship with Pedro Martinez and Derek Lowe37:06 – Importance of Starting Rotation and Team Chemistry38:52 – Schilling's Role Models40:48 – Connection to Phoenix & Boston42:08 – The Bloody Sock: The Full Story45:42 – How Schilling's Ankle and Shoulder Feel Today46:41 – The Experimental Suture Procedure51:46 – Coming Back from 3–0 Down53:37 – Lightning Round: Five-Hour Pre-Game Routine & MoreQUOTES:13:33 - “One, no one is ever going to care about my health more than I am, no matter how much somebody says they are. And number two, if the media is to be believed, no player has ever been misdiagnosed or operated on wrongly, because you don't read about those."26:55 - “And they said, ‘Yeah, we know [pitching] is broke, but we're paid to win. We're not going to fix it within the window of time we have at this job. So we'll just use those guys and when they break, we'll move on.’”37:13 - “I always tell people when they ask me for predictions, I always tell people that the pitching staff that gets the most starts from the opening day starting five is probably going to win the division.”RELATED EPISODESTreat the Human, Not the Hype: Dr. Thomas Gill on the Biology of Healing & the "VIP Medicine" Trap - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPS45PrwnNs&tThe Surgeon Who Saved Sports - Meet Dr. Andrews - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkvI56ZiabA&tSPONSORSBoston Orthopedics and Wellness — helping you recover faster, move better, and perform at your best with advanced orthopedic and wellness care. Get 15% off your first visit: https://www.bostonorthopedicandwellness.com/ Beck Bode Wealth ManagementA fee-only fiduciary firm helping individuals, families, and business owners build long-term financial confidence through disciplined investing and personalized planning.https://beckbode.com/DISCLAIMERThe opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#CurtSchilling #MLB #SportsMedicine #Orthopedics #PitchingMechanics

The American Olympic gymnastics team is doing exceptionally well, but at what cost? With kids us young as 12 doing between 30 and 40 hours of training a week, gymnastics is easily one of the most physically demanding youth sports in the world. So what happens when training loads rise faster than growing bodies can handle?In this episode, Elspeth (Elly) Hart, Physician Assistant, Certified Athletic Trainer, and gymnastics medicine specialist at Boston Children’s Hospital, joins host Andrew Rizza to explore the unique medical realities of caring for young gymnasts.The conversation examines why gymnastics requires a sport-specific approach to injury diagnosis and treatment, particularly in young athletes with open growth plates and high repetitive loading. Dr. Hart explains why persistent back pain in gymnasts should never be dismissed, how spinal stress injuries can become lifelong problems if missed, and why early intervention can dramatically improve healing outcomes.The discussion also explores “gymnast wrist,” overtraining culture, mental health pressures, and the challenge of balancing elite performance with long-term wellbeing. Dr. Hart also clarifies why emerging AI technology is likely to help reshape injury prevention in the sport.MEET THE GUESTElspeth "Elly" Hart, DScPAS, PA-C, MPAS, ATC, LAT- Physician Assistant & Certified Athletic Trainer - Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention, Boston Children's Hospital - Medical Staff, USA Gymnastics - Founder, Gymnastics Medicine: Education and ResearchTOPICS DISCUSSED- Why gymnastics medicine emerged as its own subspecialty - Training load, sports specialization, and when overuse injuries begin in gymnastics- Spondylolysis and the protocol for healing it - What “gymnast wrist” is and why it is often missed- How AI and wearables could finally bring evidence-based load management to the sport- Mental health as a clinical priority HIGHLIGHTS01:29 – Dr. Hart's Journey into Gymnastics Medicine04:51 – Sponsor: Boston Orthopedics and Wellness05:55 – Gratitude for the Work of Dr. Micheli07:41 – ATC and PA Dual Credentialing & Gymnast Experience09:19 – Competitiveness in Athlete Care12:00 – Gymnast Training Loads, Injury Risk, and Age14:26 – USA Gymnastics Safety Criteria18:11 – AI & Technology for Load Monitoring23:31 – Common Gymnastics Injuries27:24 – Spondylolysis Treatment Protocol30:54 – Long-Term Risks of Untreated Injuries32:45 – Gymnast's Wrist: Signs & Symptoms35:54 – Implementing Off-Season Rests in Gymnastics38:54 – Injury Prevention Strategies for Gymnasts42:32 – Supporting Athlete Mental Health47:28 – Key Tools for Clinicians Treating Gymnasts51:35 – Lightning Round: Injury Prevention Exercises & AdviceQUOTES:17:52 – "My big question is, how many athletes did you lose to get that one athlete? And what are those athletes who didn't make it to the Olympics, how are they doing? How are their bodies? How are they recovering?”13:19 - “My first age of where we're really seeing the repetitive overuse is starting around age 10, but usually maybe even up until 13 or 14. But I have yet to meet a gymnast who has not had an overuse injury before, or I should say after, the age of 14.” 17:38 - “But I think the trouble is that, to be totally honest, our team is doing so great. We have won so many Olympic games, so a lot of coaches don't want to change the way that they're coaching because it's successful, right? It's creating an Olympic athlete." LINKS Elspeth (Elly) Hart on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/elspeth-elly-hart-252b06150/ Boston Children's Hospital – https://www.childrenshospital.org Micheli Center for Sports Injury Prevention – https://www.themichelicenter.com Gymnastics Medicine Education and Research – https://gymnasticsmedicine.org “Common upper extremity gymnastics injuries and gymnastic specific return to play protocols” — https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40433250/ SPONSORBrought to you by Boston Orthopedics and Wellness — helping you recover faster, move better, and perform at your best with advanced orthopedic and wellness care.Get 15% off your first visit: https://www.bostonorthopedicandwellness.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsMedicine #Gymnastics #YouthSports #InjuryPrevention #PediatricSportsMedicine

Death by a Thousand Headers: The Subconcussive Reality of UK FootballConcussion protocols in sport have improved dramatically over the past two decades, but what if the biggest threat to athletes’ long-term brain health isn’t concussion at all?In this episode, Dr. Adam J. White, Head of Brain Health at the Professional Footballers’ Association and co-founder of the Concussion Legacy Foundation UK, joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to explore the evolving science of brain health in UK football (soccer).The conversation challenges conventional thinking around concussion, shifting the focus toward the cumulative impact of repetitive, subconcussive head injuries, particularly from heading the ball. Dr. White explains why modern football may pose even greater risks than the past, how new heading guidelines are reshaping training environments, and why prevention—not treatment—remains the only viable solution in the absence of a cure for neurodegenerative disease.The discussion also examines the cultural and commercial pressures that prevent athletes from reporting symptoms, the limitations of current concussion protocols in football, and the growing role of AI and data tracking in monitoring head impact exposure. Dr. White explains why meaningful change in sport requires not just medical advances, but a cultural shift.MEET THE GUEST Dr. Adam J. White, PhD, PGDip, PGCert, BA (Hons), FHEAHead of Brain Health, Professional Footballers’ Association (UK)Co-founder, Concussion Legacy Foundation UK Author of Sport, Theory and Social ProblemsTOPICS DISCUSSEDRepetitive subconcussive impacts and long-term brain health risksWhy modern synthetic balls and increased player torque have heightened impact forcesThe political battle with FIFA and IFAB over temporary concussion substitutionsThe legacy of Jeff Astle and the 1966 World Cup team's struggle with dementiaThe sociological reasons behind why athletes hide injuriesSPONSORBrought to you by Boston Orthopedics and Wellness — expert care to help you recover faster, move better, and get back to doing what you love.Enjoy 15% off your first visit: http://www.bostonorthoandwellness.comHIGHLIGHTS00:53 – Dr. White's Role in the PFA and Brain Health04:45 - Sponsor Message: Boston Orthopedic and Wellness 05:51 – Defining Brain Health Beyond Concussion 08:25 – Misconceptions About Heading and Subconcussive Impacts 11:04 – Linear vs. Rotational Forces in Headers 12:57 – In-Game Concussion Screening: USA vs. UK 18:50 – High-Profile Cases & The Legacy of Jeff Astle 22:29 – Brain Injury Stigmas and the Commercial Value of a Player 24:34 – Challenges of Monitoring Head Impacts in Soccer 28:50 – Long-Term Neurologic Care Post-Retirement 32:00 – Motivations Behind Sport, Theory and Social Problems Book 35:13 – Athlete Health: Biologic and Social Factors 37:23 – Shifting Norms: Athletes Advocating for Teammates 40:06 – Salary Guarantees and Injury Reporting in Soccer 41:57 – Lightning Round: Optimism for Brain Health in Football 42:32 – Eliminating Toxic Competition in Sport Culture 43:08 – The Number One Habit for Evaluating Head Injuries 44:31 – Exciting Research: Diagnosing CTE in the Living 45:07 – Redesigning Sports Systems Around Long-Term Health 47:05 – Success in 10 Years: Making Dementia HistoryQUOTES:06:21 - “It's the thousands of repetitive head impacts that are non-concussive, they're non-symptomatic, that players are sustaining every day in training that we think are leading to these — and the evidence is pointing towards — are leading to this long-term set of neurodegenerative diseases.” 06:39 - “Often we're couching it as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, some motor neuron disease or ALS, as it is in the States, but for those that are studied postmortem, we're overwhelmingly finding that they're being diagnosed pathologically with CTE, chronic traumatic encephalopathy.”42:11 - “Assume it's a concussion, always assume it's a concussion, and absolutely test that. If you've got any inkling or any worry, niggle, or you’re not sure, just say it's a concussion.”LINKS Dr Adam J. White - https://adamjohnwhite.co.ukConcussion & CTE Foundation UK - https://concussionandcte.org/ Sport, Theory and Social Problems - https://adamjohnwhite.co.uk/books.php RELATED EPISODES Inside the NFL Concussion Crisis with Former New England Patriot Ted Johnson - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01Opfvv5rY8 “Let No One Outwork You”: Isaiah Kacyvenski’s Journey From Poverty to the NFL & Venture Capital - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkFHaeGbsn0 DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsMedicine #BrainHealth #HeadInjury #CTE #ConcussionAwareness

As surgical techniques for the shoulder evolve and the number of arthroplasty procedures in younger patients continues to skyrocket, how can clinicians balance aggressive innovation with predictable patient outcomes?In this episode, Dr. Sarav Shah—Chief of the Division of Sports Medicine at New England Baptist Hospital—joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to discuss the complex world of shoulder surgery.The conversation examines the startling 300% increase in shoulder replacements for patients under 50 and the emerging "buying time" procedures, such as Lower Trapezius Tendon (LTT) transfers, designed to delay the start of the arthroplasty clock. Dr. Shah shares his perspective on why machine learning is poised to have a far greater impact on surgical success than current robotic systems.The discussion dives into debates in shoulder surgery, including the use of balloon spacers for massive rotator cuff tears, the role of social determinants of health in orthopedic outcomes, and why elite athletes often return to sport faster after surgery than amateurs. Dr. Shah also offers advice for young clinicians hoping to build careers and pursue leadership roles in sports medicine.MEET THE GUEST Dr. Sarav Shah, MDOrthopedic surgeon Chief, Division of Sports Medicine, New England Baptist HospitalCo-Director, New England Baptist Hospital Sports Medicine and Shoulder & Elbow FellowshipsTOPICS DISCUSSEDWhy elite athletes often return to sport faster after surgeryThe 300% increase in shoulder arthroplasty for patients under 50The impact of social determinants of health on surgical outcomesDebates around balloon spacers for massive rotator cuff tearsEmerging procedures such as lower trapezius tendon transferHow machine learning is transforming surgical decision-makingHIGHLIGHTS00:55 – Dr. Shah's Path into Orthopedic Surgery & Shoulders02:43 – Mentorship with Dr. David Dines04:09 – Collaborative Care: Working with PTs & Athletic Trainers06:00 – Improving Patient Experience Through Communication07:29 – How Much Information Is Too Much for Patients?08:37 – Patients Who "Heal Themselves" Before Surgery11:30 – Second Opinions: Talking Patients into or out of Surgery?12:35 – Major Advances in Shoulder Clinical Outcomes14:36 – The Increase in Arthroplasty for Patients Under and Over 5015:53 – Has the Pendulum Swung Too Far Toward Reverse Arthroplasty?18:33 – The Future of AI and Machine Learning in Surgery20:31 – Emerging Technologies Dr. Shah Is Excited About21:26 – The New Wave of Rotator Cuff Augmentation24:05 – Treating Elite Athletes vs. the General Population25:15 – Managing Biological Healing Expectations and Protocols26:46 – How Social Determinants of Health Influence Outcomes28:57 – Reducing Complications for High-Deprivation Index Patients29:46 – Balloon Spacers for Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears31:06 – Advice for Clinicians Who Want Leadership Roles32:53 – Lightning Round: Biggest-Impact Procedures34:13 – One Surgical Intervention That Changed His Practice35:21 – The Research Question Dr. Shah Wishes He Could Answer36:27 – The Best Advice from a Mentor36:49 – Staying Balanced Outside of Medicine37:18 – What He Hopes Changes in Sports Medicine in 10 Years38:11 – Why He Completed a Shoulder/Elbow Fellowship After Sports MedicineQUOTE:31:22 - “If you want to be the best that you can be, you've got to put in the effort and time. And it's not just showing up, it’s not just caring in the room. If you care about the patient, go home and read. You go home and read, you'd be the most knowledgeable, most independent, hone your skills, go to all the labs that are offered, hone your skills to be the best surgeon, best physician, best scientist you can be. And that's how you take the best care of your patients.” LINKS: Dr. Sarav Shah, MD: https://nebh.org/find-a-doctor/sarav-shah-md “A novel approach to improving patient experience in orthopedics”: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1062860617691124 Dr. Shah’s papers: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=SPUf5tQAAAAJ&hl=en DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#OrthopedicSurgery #ShoulderSurgery #RotatorCuff #ShoulderArthroplasty #SportsMedicine

What happens when the culture of toughness in professional football collides with the long-term reality of brain injury, and the science to understand it barely exists yet?In this episode, former NFL linebacker Ted Johnson joins hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to discuss his 10-year career, the early days of concussion awareness in football, and his mission to transform how the world understands head trauma. Johnson recounts his own history with concussions that altered his cognitive health forever. He explains the "invisible" nature of brain injuries, the silence that once permeated NFL locker rooms regarding them, and the tragic legacy of his peer, Junior Seau. He also sheds light on his own decision to go public in 2007 and why he has committed to donating his brain to the Concussion Legacy Foundation.Looking at the modern game, the discussion examines how training methods have evolved from the "archaic" days of two-a-days to a more science-informed approach to sleep, nutrition, and contact management. Johnson also shares his perspective on why today’s athletes are opting for shorter careers.MEET THE GUEST- Former linebacker, New England Patriots- Three-time Super Bowl champion- Co-host of WEEI Afternoons in Boston - Advocate for concussion awareness in professional footballTOPICS DISCUSSED- The discipline and professional mindset required for NFL longevity- The evolution of training from archaic "two-a-days" to modern sports science- Ted Johnson’s experience with concussions during and after his NFL career- Why modern NFL players may choose shorter careersHIGHLIGHTS01:37 – Post-NFL Fitness: Weightlifting and Exercise03:33 – Preparation Habits for NFL Longevity07:14 – What Separates a Good Linebacker from a Great One12:12 – Injuries & Athletic Trainer Relationships14:28 – Brain Health & Johnson's Concussion Journey19:55 – Concussion Protocols at the Time22:04 – The Gladiator Mindset and Shame Associated with Head Trauma24:09 – Junior Seau Memories & CTE Tragedy28:47 – Johnson's Brain Donation Decision34:22 – Lightning Round: Toughest Players & Best Linebackers35:46 – NFL Rule Changes Johnson Would Make36:44 – Myths & Realities of NFL Locker Rooms38:15 – Favorite Patriot Teams39:01 – Those Massive Shoulder PadsQUOTES03:51“The main thing really is just discipline, having a disciplined mindset and a professional mindset in the sense that you have to have intent every day when you're at the highest level.”07:20 (adjusted assuming the quote remains after the 7:51–8:19 cut)“You have to have unwavering confidence in your abilities. That is the first and foremost. You better believe that you deserve to be at that level, that you are worthy of that opportunity. You have to have that self-belief if you're going to make it.”22:45“There's shame around it because it's the invisible injury, you can't see it. I can see a broken leg, I can see what a jacked-up shoulder looks like, it's in a sling. You're in a walking boot, you're on crutches, ‘Oh, clearly he's stumbled.’ Concussion? Nobody could see that there's damage inside. And so you're afraid to say anything because guys will be like, ‘Yeah, whatever, dude, I don't believe you. You look fine to me.’”LINKS"Dark Days Follow Hard-Hitting Career in N.F.L.” - https://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/02/sports/football/02concussions.html WEEI Sports Radio Network - https://www.audacy.com/weei RELATED EPISODESRob Ninkovich and Dr. Thomas Gill on Injuries, Rehab & the Mental Side of Quitting the NFL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUOakw6Sz4g “Let No One Outwork You”: Isaiah Kacyvenski’s Journey From Poverty to the NFL & Venture Capital - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkFHaeGbsn0&t DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsMedicine #ConcussionAwareness #BrainHealth #CTE #NewEnglandPatriots

Despite pitch counts, improved training methods, and greater awareness of injury prevention, elbow and shoulder injuries in baseball pitchers continue to rise, particularly among youth athletes. So what are we still missing?In this episode, Dr. Garrett Scott Bullock — physical therapist, quantitative epidemiologist, and former professional baseball player in the Houston Astros — joins host Andrew Rizza to explore the science behind throwing injuries. Drawing from his research at the Wake Forest Pitching Lab, Bullock explains why most throwing injuries stem from three major factors: workload spikes, poor mechanics, and weakness in the systems supporting the arm.The conversation dives into the growing pressures within youth sports, including playing multiple leagues, the pursuit of college scholarships, and how these factors may contribute to increased injury risk. Bullock also discusses emerging research on ball size for youth athletes, the limitations of pitch counts as a monitoring tool, and how new technologies such as markerless motion capture and radar-based tracking systems are transforming pitching analysis.Looking ahead, the discussion examines the future of sports medicine research, including individualized athlete monitoring, advanced biomechanical modeling, and the challenge of translating injury prevention research into real-world practice.MEET THE GUESTDr. Garrett Scott Bullock, PT, DPT, DPhil- Physical Therapist and Quantitative Epidemiologist- Researcher at Wake Forest School of Medicine- Former professional baseball player in the Houston Astros organization- Clarendon Scholar, University of Oxford TOPICS DISCUSSED- Why youth throwing injuries continue to rise - The "Three Buckets" of injury: Workload spikes, biomechanics, and weakness- Research on baseball size and youth pitching mechanics- The technology transforming pitching analysis - The future of injury prediction and biomechanical researchHIGHLIGHTS00:36 – Garrett's Background & Pro Baseball Journey02:39 – Being a Subject in a Research Study03:37 – Prevalence of Injury in Adolescents04:41 – The "Three Buckets" of Injury Causes07:02 – Community Education & Injury Prevention09:02 – Collaborating with Medical Providers Beyond Your Clinic10:35 – Marketing Yourself as a Specialist Clinician12:31 – Talking Performance with Parents and Coaches15:37 – Causes of the Upper Extremity Injury Epidemic18:05 – Pitch Counts and Rest Days to Reduce the Rate of Injury22:12 – The Pressure of Trying to Get a College Scholarship23:17 – How the Size of the Ball Correlates to Injury in Youth Athletes26:26 – Identifying Fatigue Markers in Pitchers29:27 – Arm Care and Strength & Conditioning Programs31:07 – Technology Used to Capture the Research33:01 – The Wake Forest Pitching Lab Model34:46 – Where the Research Is Heading37:05 – Fun Fact: Ballet & Vocal TrainingQUOTES:13:18 - "Yeah, I actually never really played the pro card, to be honest, the pro baseball card. I actually really don't like talking about that from a clinical side. Yeah, I always try to make it more about performance of the athlete and what they are in meeting their goals." - Garrett Scott Bullock22:51 - "They hear these different teams or different people saying like, 'Well, you need to play on my team or in this league at 11 to get ready for high school, which will get you a college scholarship.' And in reality, it doesn't matter what you do at 11, what team you're playing for, as long as you're getting the skills in, learning the fundamentals, and not getting injured, then you're fine at 11 or 12. But they don't know." - Garrett Scott Bullock35:30 - "Exercise, total body care, decreased sports socialization, 'Do multiple sports, rest a little bit.' We know that works, but translating from the bench to the community is not really working at all, to be honest, at this point. So, really thinking about it from a public health ecological level." - Garrett Scott BullockLINKSGarrett Scott Bullock - Wake Forest University School of Medicine: https://school.wakehealth.edu/faculty/b/garrett-scott-bullockDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsMedicine #BaseballScience #PitchingInjuries #InjuryPrevention #YouthBaseball

When Metrics Help and When They Hurt: Why Sports Science Data Alone is Not EnoughHow can teams move beyond simply collecting data to making smarter, more athlete-centered decisions that truly impact performance and reduce injuries, even on a budget?In this episode, Shaun Owen, Sports Science Coordinator for the Boston Red Sox, joins host Andrew Rizza to pull back the curtain on how elite organizations bridge the gap between data, research, and on-field performance. Based on his experience in rugby and high-performance sport in New Zealand and South Africa, as well as his work with the Red Sox, Owen explains how sports science uses data, technology, and athlete monitoring to guide decisions while still accounting for context and athlete feedback. Drawing from the work of Martin Buchheit, the conversation explores the industry's evolution from the foundational research of sport science 1.0 to the technological boom of sport science 2.0 and its metric-driven nature, before reaching sport science 3.0, which is less data-driven and more data-informed. The discussion also covers why sleep may be the most underrated recovery tool in sports, how simple metrics like Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) can still provide powerful insights even without expensive technology, and the growing role of AI and machine learning in biomechanics and injury prevention. Owen also offers practical advice for organizations with limited resources and guidance for students interested in pursuing careers in sports science.MEET THE GUEST- Sports Science Coordinator, Boston Red Sox- Former Sports Scientist with the Crusaders and Canterbury Rugby Football Union (New Zealand)- PhD in Sports Science, Stellenbosch University (South Africa)TOPICS DISCUSSED- The evolution of sports science and athlete monitoring- The importance of sleep, recovery, and athlete habits- Why RPE remains one of the most valuable monitoring tools- Balancing data analytics with real-world coaching context- The future of AI and machine learning in sports performance- Advice for students and professionals pursuing careers in sports science HIGHLIGHTS02:07 – Shaun Owen's Educational Background & Early Career04:46 – Birth of Modern Sports Science in Australia07:24 – Evolution of Sports Science in US Professional Sports09:58 – The Role of the Sports Scientist in the Red Sox Medical Team14:33 – Key Metrics: Volume, Acceleration, Heart Rate & High-Speed16:12 – Heart Rate Variability (HRV) & Sleep Performance19:28 – Getting Buy-In on Nutrition & Sleep Habits23:27 – Sports Science 3.0: Knowing the Athlete & Data-Informed Decisions30:36 – AI's Role in Sports Science36:16 – One Essential Tool: Building a Data Pipeline37:07 – Sleep, Wellness & RPE Tracking for Teams with Low Resources44:17 – RPE: High School and Collegiate Versus Pro Athletics47:05 – Sports Science Career Advice: Studies, Experience & Mentors50:06 – Shaun's Hobbies: Rugby & Rock ClimbingQUOTES17:52 – “Where athletes, you look at recovery, they want to go do something that feels hard, say get in an ice bath, they feel like they've recovered, do something that's really making them feel like they put the work in to accelerate their recovery, where nine times out of 10, an extra hour of sleep's going to outperform any of that.” – Shaun Owen21:47 – “As far as the conversations with athletes themselves, I think anything that can show them a hard number of what's happening — and this goes for all things, performance, correlations, anything, anything that we really believe in — if we can show it on an individual level for that person, it becomes quite valuable and strong in telling that story.” – Shaun Owen35:09 – “Biomechanics is in the spotlight now, but you're essentially working with machine learning and computer vision. And those two hand in hand have an untapped amount of opportunity in the field.” – Shaun OwenLINKS Martin Buchheit - “Sports Science 3.0: Integrating Technology and AI with Foundational Knowledge” - https://martin-buchheit.net/2024/08/12/sports-science-3-0-integrating-technology-and-ai-with-foundational-knowledge/ RELATED EPISODESBehind the Sports Medicine Podcast:Inside the Life of an MLB Athletic Trainer with Anthony Cerundolo - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YO0e5m2rkVg DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsScience #SportsMedicine #BostonRedSox #SportsAnalytics #InjuryPrevention

How do you keep a Major League roster healthy through the 162-game marathon of a professional baseball season? And what does it really take to build and lead a championship-level sports medicine operation?In this episode, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth are joined by Brad Pearson, Senior Vice President of Sports Medicine for the Boston Red Sox. With over two decades of experience in the organization, Pearson shares his journey from a determined intern at Springfield College to leading a massive, multi-disciplinary team that supports the multi-time World Series champions.The conversation explores the evolving pathway for athletic trainers in professional sports, the intense "grit" required to survive the minor league grind, and the cultural shift toward a holistic performance model that includes behavioral health, nutrition, and sports science. Pearson also sheds light on the importance of "braking systems" in training and the anti-inflammatory secrets of recovery, before discussing the benefits and limits of AI technology in the sport.MEET THE GUEST- Senior Vice President of Sports Medicine, Boston Red Sox- 20+ years of experience within the Red Sox organization- Former Major League Head Athletic Trainer and Minor League Medical CoordinatorTOPICS DISCUSSED- Daily challenges of pro baseball sports medicine- Collaborating with other professionals and the growth of sports medicine staffs- The role of technology and AI in the sport- Managing second opinions and executive pressure- Advice for prosHighlights00:47 – Breaking into Pro Sports as an Athletic Trainer01:42 – The Reality of the Minor League Grind02:34 – Pearson's 20-Year Journey with the Red Sox04:40 – Challenges of Working in a Championship Organization06:26 – Managing Different Player Personalities: Grinders vs. Talent08:14 – Sponsors: Met One Technologies08:44 – Key Collaborators: Nutrition, Psych, and Strength & Conditioning10:29 – The Investment in Large Sports Medicine Staffs11:46 – Consistency Through Winning and Rebuilding Seasons12:55 – A Day in the Life of a Senior VP of Sports Medicine14:21 – Navigating Pressure from Senior Executives15:42 – Managing Player Second Opinions18:24 – Maintaining the Passion Through a 162-Game Season19:47 – The Role of Technology and Data in the Training Room22:42 – Current MLB Research and the UCL "Riddle"23:29 – Is AI Ready to Predict Injuries?29:08 – Guiding Principles for a Career in Sports31:02 – Lightning Round: Training and Nutrition Tips32:30 – Pearson's Favorite Red Sox Championship Teams34:52 – Favorite and Least Favorite BallparksQUOTES (Adjusted)18:56 – “That's one thing we always try to remind ourselves, that this is a game and we need to be having fun. And if we can achieve that, then the other stuff is frosting on the cake.”19:21 – “There's always something new that I learn about baseball, and that's what attracted me to it from a sports medicine perspective, because I just felt like there was so much to learn still. There's so many things we still don't know about the injury process in baseball players that you really get to problem solve and innovate, and that kind of keeps my fire burning.”29:25 – “In athletic training, in sports medicine, this is a people business, so if you think that you're going to be a turd and do well for the long term, man, you better be bringing something extraordinary to the table from a talent standpoint. So I think how you treat people and how you communicate is really important.”30:14 – “To be the best or to make it to the pinnacle of any industry, you have to be obsessed. I'm sorry to say, this place that everybody wants to be in is very difficult. I think you have to sacrifice something.”LINKSBrad Pearson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-pearson-463645152/ RELATED EPISODESThe Surgeon Who Saved Sports - Meet Dr. Andrews - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkvI56ZiabA&t=1s Former NFL Cornerback Played the Game, Now He’s Changing It (Dominique Foxworth) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odPHjAMB8Ec&t SPONSOR: Met One Technologies - http://www.met1tech.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsMedicine #BostonRedSox #AthleticTraining #SportsScience #HumanPerformance

In the Athletic Training profession, salaries are stagnant, youth sports are being neglected, and practitioners are forced to get advanced certifications to make an adequate income. How did the profession get here, and what can we do to ensure its future viability?In this episode, John Lopez joins host Andrew Rizza for an extensive look at the past, present, and future of athletic training. With Lopez’s career beginning in 1970, it spans collegiate athletics, the NFL, education, and industry leadership. In this discussion, he offers an honest and sometimes blunt assessment of where the profession has succeeded, where it has missed major opportunities, and what must change to ensure long-term sustainability.The conversation covers the documentation problem that is killing advocacy, third-party reimbursement pitfalls, PRN exploitation, brain drain drivers, the potential impact of NIL on collegiate healthcare, and youth sports neglect, while charting paths to ROI proof, the power of mentorship, and non-traditional wins. Lopez also provides practical advice for young athletic trainers entering the field.MEET THE GUEST- Certified Athletic Trainer since 1970 - NFL AT: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Baltimore/Indianapolis Colts- Sports medicine sales job with Collin Sports Medicine- Former Director of Sports Medicine/Head Athletic Trainer at Coppin State UniversityTOPICS DISCUSSED- The decline of NATA - Transitioning to non-traditional settings (Industrial & corporate) - The documentation deficiency and proving your worth - Advanced certifications - Youth Sports and PRN exploitationHIGHLIGHTS01:30 – Lopez's Career Path in Athletic Training06:34 – The NATA Membership Crisis10:14 – The Paradigm Shift with Conferences and Meetings11:52 – Cost Challenges for NATA12:48 – Non-Traditional Athletic Trainers and NATA18:49 – Advocating for Fair Pay & the Documentation Deficiency26:31 – Third-Party Reimbursement29:53 – Workers' Compensation Law & NIL Complications33:20 – Are Advanced Certifications Worth It?39:19 – Youth Sports Neglect and PRN Abuse45:13 – Allies & Revenue Tracking49:44 – Advice for Up-and-Coming Athletic Trainers56:07 – Fun Fact About Lopez: The Accordion🗣️ Quotes14:34 – “If you look at that historically, General Motors hired their first certified athletic trainer to reduce their injuries in 1965. They realized they paid Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan more money in premiums than what their profits were every year. So they said, ‘This is insanity, we can't keep up with this!’ So they started hiring athletic trainers.”20:37 – “So we're not driving our salary because we can't point out our value. We do a very poor job, as a profession, in documentation.”21:09 – “The issue that we have done is that we haven't proclaimed what our worth is. We don't really know how to tell people how much we're worth.”26:05 – “And a lot of times you're meeting with your principal or your athletic director at the collegiate setting, all we talk about is we're working too many hours, but yet we don't stand there and say, ‘Look how many athletes I treated; this is the documentation that I have. This is the number of—’ We don't do that. We'll sit there and complain about it. So it's very difficult for you to move the process forward if you don't have documentation to back yourself up.”50:33 – “You’ve got to develop stronger relationships with your mentors. Mentorship is so important in our profession.” LINKSJohn Lopez on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-lopez-264ba44/ RELATED EPISODES The Future of Athletic Training with Dr. Chad Starkey - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abGrBM19qZw DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#AthleticTraining #SportsMedicine #InjuryPrevention #NATA #SportsScience

In a world where professional and collegiate sports are billion-dollar industries, why do the athletic trainers who keep these athletes on the field continue to earn salaries that don’t reflect their value?In this episode, Andrew Rizza is joined by Dr. Ross Dexter, the Assistant Athletic Director for Health and Performance at Southern Oregon University. Dr. Dexter shares his own career journey and how he successfully secured meaningful raises for himself and his staff by understanding the system instead of fighting against it. The conversation explores the "ACL ROI"—the idea that preventing a single surgery can pay for an entire staff member’s salary—and the necessity of moving beyond the "water bottle and towel" stereotype. They also discuss the importance of being good at what you do, how to build a referral network, the role of professional organizations like NATA, and the realities of the current job market. Dr. Dexter provides a masterclass in how athletic trainers can become indispensable assets to their institutions and advocate for the compensation they deserve. MEET THE GUEST Dr. Ross Dexter, DAT, LAT, ATC, CSCS- Assistant Athletic Director for Health and Performance, Southern Oregon University- Former Head Athletic Trainer - Doctor of Athletic TrainingTOPICS DISCUSSED - The state of athletic training salaries and job market realities- Navigating institutional red tape and job reclassification- Why clinical excellence drives advocacyHIGHLIGHTS01:02 – The Evolution of Athletic Training03:11 – Dr. Dexter's Career Journey04:49 – Calculating the ROI of an Athletic Trainer08:40 – Moving Beyond the "Water Bottle and Towel" Perception11:31 – Strength & Conditioning vs. Athletic Training13:44 – Salary & Value Comparisons15:52 – Making the Reality of Athletic Training Visible and Exciting23:54 – Advocating for the Profession by Being Good at What You Do31:34 – The Evolution of Athletic Trainer Salaries38:58 – Dr. Dexter's Referral Network41:12 – Leveraging Competition to Improve Staff Salaries42:12 – A Model for the Continuity of Care44:38 – Market Trends: Why Job Openings Are Staying Open46:42 – Investigating HR Law to Break Pay Barriers50:19 – Advocating for Fair Pay and Building a Better Profession58:01 – The Role of NATA and Political ActionQUOTES:05:17 – “Look, one of my staff's salary for a year, not including benefits, is equal to one surgery that our insurance is going to have to pay for, and if we can do two-thirds of that in-house, we’re saving a ton of money. If we can prevent it or mitigate the risk of it happening, we're saving a lot of money.”07:18 – “My personal and professional position is that I am, and we are, the bulwark against major lawsuits.”20:26 – “One of the most fascinating things about athletic training is when we're at our best, doing our best job, we're not doing anything.”24:58 – “And one of the best ways to advocate for the profession is being very, very good at what you do.”54:00 – “Building a better profession, I think, means advocacy, it means outcomes, it means relationship building, it means program development. And I think that matrix of things and touch points for getting paid.”” LINKSDr. Ross Dexter - https://souraiders.com/staff-directory/dr-ross-dexter/226RELATED EPISODES Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast: The Future of Athletic Training with Dr. Chad Starkey - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abGrBM19qZw Inside the Training Secrets of MLB’s Top Athletes (with Eric Cressey) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVgcAyO0YwQ DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#AthleticTraining #SportsMedicine #AthleticTrainer #HealthcareAdvocacy

A Pro Triathlete’s Guide to Avoiding Burnout, Injury, and OvertrainingWhat does it really take to train like a professional triathlete? And how can you train longer and harder without burning out, getting injured, or peeing yourself mid-race (unless it’s voluntary)?In this episode, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth chat with Lukas Siska, professional triathlete, founder of Siska Training Systems, and elite endurance coach who helped guide Dr. Roth through his first 70.3 half-Ironman. Siska shares his journey from collegiate swimmer and division one runner to competing on the triathlon circuit, including his pursuit of Olympic qualification and his transition to long-course racing.The conversation explores the physical and mental demands of long-course racing and some specific biomechanics of swim and bike efficiency. It delves into the realities of high-volume endurance training: managing fatigue, avoiding overtraining, preventing injuries, mental resilience, recovery strategies, and nutrition myths. Siska offers practical coaching insights for athletes at every level and reminds us that consistency beats perfection every time.MEET THE GUEST- Professional triathlete - Elite endurance coach- Founder, Siska Training Systems- Former D1 Cross Country Athlete and State-Qualifying SwimmerTOPICS DISCUSSEDThe realities of elite endurance training and long-course triathlonHow to manage fatigue, avoid burnout, and train consistentlyInjury prevention, recovery strategies, and the role of sleepMental resiliencePractical nutrition tipsWhy personalized coaching still beats AI-generated training plansHIGHLIGHTSQUOTES14:32 – “If you're in a long-distance race, you’ve just got to break it down in your mind and be in the moment, and you can get into this flow state where time just goes differently. You can do it. The bottom line is that you can do it.”15:50 – “In the beginning, you kind of deny it, at least I was. I always kind of denied that I'm injured, and then I keep going and make it worse. And then, once you finally accept that, hey, I'm injured, I've got to do something about this— I always try to tell myself that, okay, I've got to stop. Whatever I lose in terms of my performance right now, I'm going to get it back way more once I'm healthy.”19:55 – “Consistency is really what makes the difference. If you can do something consistent over a long period of time, that’s what’s going to make that performance come about.”39:31 – “Top mistake I would say is a lack of consistency. If you're consistent, even if you have a bad plan, you can get somewhere. But if you don't have consistency, you can't do anything.”40:19 – “I think just showing up every day. Again, I guess that just goes back to consistency. Just some days you don't feel like it, but you just do it, you don't give yourself the option not to. That produces results.”LINKS Siska Systems: https://siskasystems.com Siska Training Systems on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@siskatrainingsystems DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#TriathlonTraining #Ironman703 #SportsScience #EnduranceTraining #AthleteRecovery

What happens when medical decision-making collides with pressure from star athletes, agents, and public scrutiny? For one of the most respected team physicians in professional sports, the answer is simple: treat the human, not the hype.In this live episode, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth are joined at the Harvard Varsity Club by renowned orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine leader Dr. Thomas Gill, former Head Team Physician for the New England Patriots and the Boston Red Sox. He shares from his decades of experience caring for athletes at every level, from youth and high school sports to the NFL and MLB. Together, they examine the risks of changing protocols for high-profile athletes, and how anatomy, biomechanics, and the “biology of healing" should guide recovery timelines, not urgency or star power. The discussion also covers surgical innovation, challenges in youth sports, retirement conversations, and the value of treating athletes as human beings first.MEET THE GUEST Dr. Thomas Gill, MD- Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine Specialist- Former Head Team Physician for the New England Patriots (NFL)- Former Head Team Physician for the Boston Red Sox (MLB)- Director of the Boston Sports Medicine and Research InstituteTOPICS DISCUSSED- Rotator cuff repairs and biceps tenodesis advances- Pro sports medicine: Red Sox vs Patriots differences- Managing demanding star athletes' return-to-play- The biology of healing vs. the pressure of return to play- Retirement conversationsHIGHLIGHTS01:18 — The Boston Sports Medicine and Research Center Update02:07 — Augmentation & Biologic Healing03:45 — Why Biceps Tenodesis Is on the Rise05:10 — Diagnosing Biceps Pathology06:04 — Sponsor: Met One Technologies06:35 — Life as a Team Doc: Patriots (NFL) vs. Red Sox (MLB)09:35 — High School and Youth Sports12:15 — Defining Moments in Return to Play15:16 — Managing Star Athletes in Return to Play21:08 — Broaching Retirement Conversations23:25 — Lightning Round: Supplements, Core Strength, etc.QUOTES:10:45 — “But the thing about sports — it's not just the wins and the losses, but the studies are pretty clear [that] when kids are involved in sports at a young age, they do better in school, they get into less trouble after school, they get more confidence. And I don't like to use the word ‘successful', but whatever their passions are, they're more successful forward because of what they learned in the concept of a team, how to work within a team, a structure, an organization, how to build leadership.”— Dr. Thomas Gill13:09 — “You might say, ‘Sure, that's fine. If you feel up to it, you can do it.’ But if you know the anatomy, the biology of healing— We did a study, for instance, in rotator cuffs in sheep, in a sheep model. At three months after a rotator cuff repair, there's only 28% healing of the tendon to the bone, 28. So you hear about people doing the resistive exercises starting at six weeks, you have to say, what are we doing?”— Dr. Thomas Gill15:06 — “I think with the right care and the proper care, people can get back safely even after something like a stroke. And that's the great thing about our field: it opens new doors and prevents new challenges.”— Dr. Thomas Gill16:29 — “These athletes, men, women, they all want to get back and play, but you have to remember they're human beings first, athletes second, their biology works the same, and you have to educate them. You just have to take the time to try to educate them why you're making the decisions that you are.”— Dr. Thomas GillLINKSlDr. Thomas Gill, MD: https://bostonsportsmedicine.com/about-us/#gill The Boston Sports Medicine and Research Center - https://bostonsportsmedicine.com RELATED EPISODESRob Ninkovich and Dr Thomas Gill on Injuries, Rehab & the Mental Side of Quitting the NFL - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUOakw6Sz4g The Surgeon Who Saved Sports - Meet Dr. Andrews - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkvI56ZiabA “Let No One Outwork You”: Isaiah Kacyvenski’s Journey From Poverty to the NFL & Venture Capital - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkFHaeGbsn0SPONSOR: Met One Technologies - http://www.met1tech.comDISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#SportsMedicine #AthleteHealth #ReturnToPlay #OrthopedicSurgery #InjuryPrevention

Dr. Frances Meredith on the Biopsychosocial Approach to Sports MedicineMany patients and athletes with concussion-related or chronic symptoms (brain fog, fatigue, mood changes, autoimmune issues) continue to experience lingering challenges despite receiving standard medical care. Today’s guest believes this is often because the biological, psychological, and social drivers of health are not always addressed together within a single care framework.In this episode, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth are joined live from the 2025 NATA Convention in Orlando by Dr. Frances Meredith, a physician trained in primary care and infectious disease who now practices functional medicine, with a focus on concussion recovery, autoimmunity, and whole-person care.Dr. Meredith explains how functional medicine differs from traditional Western medical models and why patients should be active participants in their own healthcare. The conversation explores why concussions can be understood as whole-body injuries, how inflammation and metabolic factors may contribute to lingering symptoms like brain fog and fatigue, and why recovery often benefits from a truly multimodal, team-based approach.DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.MEET THE GUEST Frances Meredith, MDFunctional Medicine PhysicianFounder, Stribling Springs WellnessFormerly trained in Primary Care & Infectious DiseasesMedical Director of MyConcussionDRTOPICS DISCUSSED Understanding functional medicine The patient as an active participant in healthcare The evolution of concussion treatment Biopsychosocial medicine and team-based care The functional medicine approach to weight managementHIGHLIGHTS 00:56 – Intro to Functional Medicine 01:47 – Functional Medicine vs. Western Medicine 04:34 – Sponsors: Met One Technologies & Get Raw 05:37 – Listening to Patients 08:14 – Dr. Meredith's Team 09:23 – Patient Demographics 10:25 – Brain Fog & Contributing Factors 11:36 – Treatment Focus: Food & Lifestyle First 12:48 – Younger Patients: Autoimmunity & Concussions 14:16 – Concussions as a Whole Body Injury 16:00 – A Team Approach to Concussion Treatment 18:22 – Supporting Neurological Health and Risk Reduction 21:53 – The Biopsychosocial Model and Functional Medicine 24:05 – Advocating for Functional Medicine in Sports Medicine 25:39 – Medical Weight Loss & Factors Contributing to Weight Gain 27:38 – Understanding Functional Medicine & ResourcesQUOTES:01:03 – “Functional medicine, the way I think about it based on my experience in more traditional systems, is focused on understanding root causes. It asks why, and it honors the patient by incorporating their insights and lived experience as part of their health journey.” — Dr. Frances Meredith07:22 – “First of all, I'm not Dr. Meredith. I'm Frances. We're on a first-name basis because I'm not the expert in your body. You are. We bring different expertise to the same table.” — Dr. Frances Meredith07:44 – “So I also tell them right at the beginning, ‘I know that you may have felt unheard in the past. Your intuition matters here, and it often helps guide where we go together.’” — Dr. Frances Meredith14:44 – “When we think about concussions, it can be helpful to look beyond the brain alone. The nervous system communicates with the entire body, and understanding those connections allows us to think more holistically about recovery.” — Dr. Frances MeredithLINKS Dr. Frances Meredith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frances-meredith-a47bb830/ Stribling Springs Wellness: striblingspringswellness.com Institute for Functional Medicine: https://www.ifm.org MyConcussionDR: https://myconcussiondr.com NATA Convention: https://www.nata.org/career-education/education/events/conventionRELATED EPISODES The Truth About Weight Loss, GLP-1 Meds & the Culture of Over-Eating – With Dr. Meghan Garcia-Webb: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02k6hLdwMogSPONSORS: Met One Technologies – http://www.met1tech.com Get Raw – https://www.getrawshots.com#SportsMedicine #ConcussionCare #FunctionalMedicine #BrainHealth #BiopsychosocialMedicine

What does it take to lead a department responsible for 12 different clinical programs and numerous future healthcare providers? In an increasingly complex academic and clinical domain, today’s guest believes that the answer often boils down to two fundamental human elements: trust and respect.In this episode, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth are joined by Dr. Chris Ingersoll, Senior Associate Dean in the UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine and Chair of the Department of Health Sciences, live from the 2025 NATA Convention in Orlando.Ingersoll shares insights from decades in academic medicine, including how large institutions support high-quality research, the challenges facing modern academic publishing, and how UNC is preparing future clinicians for the era of AI and rapid innovation. The conversation also explores the importance of interprofessional education, why mentorship should be a lifelong pursuit, and how leadership rooted in trust and respect creates stronger cultures and better outcomes.MEET THE GUEST Dr. Chris Ingersoll - PhD, LAT, ATC, FACSM, FNATA, FASAHP, FNAP- Senior Associate Dean & Chair, Department of Health Sciences - UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine - Professor, Health Sciences, Orthopaedics, and Exercise and Sport Sciences- NATA Hall of Fame InducteeTOPICS DISCUSSED- UNC Health Sciences leadership and department structure- Literature dilution and predatory journals- Importance of trust & respect- Preparing future clinicians for AI and innovation - Lifelong mentorship in academic and clinical successHIGHLIGHTS01:06 — The Department of Health Sciences Overview04:31 — Sponsors: Met One Technologies & Get Raw05:33 — Type of Students at UNC06:31 — Federal, NIH, and Private Funding08:12 — Current Research Focus08:47 — Quality of Modern Medical Literature10:35 — The Danger of Predatory Journals12:07 — UNC's Strategic Pillars13:12 — Current Areas of Focus for Research15:06 — Interprofessional Collaboration in Healthcare16:43 — Building a Children's Hospital with Duke University18:53 — The Challenges and Rewards of Leading at UNC19:55 — Ingersoll's Goals and the Importance of Trust & Respect24:59 — Preparing Future Clinicians for AI and Innovation29:57 — The Role of Mentorship in Academic and Clinical Success31:44 — The Lifelong Nature of MentorshipQUOTES:22:39 - But when you start with trust, and you tell people that you trust them, they feel empowered by that. Then they work to keep your trust. And I think you start with and maintain a much better culture within your organization when they believe that they're being trusted and they're willing to give trust.” - Chris Ingersoll23:59 - “I think trust and respect are the only two essential elements that we need to be successful. I mean, do you have to like me to be motivated to work and do some things? No. But you need to trust me, and you need to respect me. And if we have those two things, we can do whatever we need to do.” - Chris Ingersoll25:46 - “It's like, how are we going to use AI to provide better care? And these ideas, like precision medicine, I mean, imagine the information that has to go into that? We're going to have to rely on AI to give us some choices in terms of what we might choose to do. But I believe, old-fashioned or not, that in the end, the human has to make the decision.” - Chris Ingersoll30:50 - “And I would argue that the best model is having multiple mentors, not a mentor. - Chris IngersollLINKS Christopher Ingersoll: UNC School of Medicine, Health Sciences: https://www.med.unc.edu/healthsciences/people/christopher-ingersollChristopher Ingersoll: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-d-ingersoll-5074b11a/ UNC School of Medicine, Health Sciences: https://www.med.unc.edu/healthsciences NATA Convention: https://www.nata.org/career-education/education/events/convention SPONSORS: Met One Technologies - http://www.met1tech.comGet Raw - https://www.getrawshots.com DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#AcademicMedicine #HealthcareLeadership #Mentorship #InterprofessionalCare #MedicalEducation

How do you modernize athletic training education to meet the demands of the role in the current landscape? The past few years have seen a shift from rigid, hour-based clinical models to immersive, real-world learning experiences designed to create better clinicians.In this episode, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth sit down with Sam Hughes, Director of Clinical Education and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Idaho, to explore how modern clinical education is evolving and what it takes to prepare athletic trainers for the realities of the job. Hughes shares how immersive clinical rotations, hybrid models, and increased autonomy are reshaping athletic training programs.The conversation dives into accreditation standards, patient-reported outcome measures, documentation challenges, and workforce shortages. Hughes also discusses the University of Idaho’s ISMaRT Clinic, where students take on full patient care responsibilities under supervision, and the upcoming shift toward more interprofessional collaboration with the "School of Health and Medical Professions" (SHAMP).MEET THE GUESTSamantha Hughes DAT, LAT, ATCDirector of Clinical Education in the Athletic Training Program at the University of IdahoClinical Assistant Professor in Movement SciencesTOPICS DISCUSSEDEvolution of athletic training clinical education to immersive, hybrid modelsUniversity of Idaho's iSMART clinic and student rotationsCAATE accreditation standards and patient-reported outcomes (PROs)Current challenges in clinical educationInterprofessional collaboration and the future of athletic training educationHIGHLIGHTS00:54 – The Evolution of Clinical Education02:37 – University of Idaho's Hybrid Approach03:48 – The Diversity of Athletic Training (Gen Med)06:02 – Sponsors: Met One Technologies & Get Raw07:04 – CAATE Accreditation Explained09:09 – What "Movement Sciences" Are11:21 – Ethics and Administration in Athletic Training12:39 – Scientific Writing for Publication and Patient Care13:33 – Changes in Student Expectations16:56 – The Importance of Patient-Reported Outcomes18:42 – Synthesizing, Analyzing, and Publishing Data20:08 – The ISMaRT Clinic21:31 – Comparing past vs. Present Clinical Standards23:33 – Feasibility of Overseas Rotations24:59 – Crossover with Orthopedic Surgeons in Training25:47 – Current Challenges in Clinical Education27:33 – Educating Students on Variable Workloads31:02 – The Shortage of Athletic Trainers33:20 – Alternative Education Paths35:59 – Advice for Athletic Trainers Interested in Educator Roles37:08 – Measuring Success for Students and Preceptors39:25 – E*Value Platform and Check-Ins for Tracking41:07 – Future of University of Idaho's Programs42:44 – Hughes' One Change for AT Education44:10 – Sam Hughes' Mission as an EducatorQUOTES:16:42 - “I think students are coming in, thinking things are busy work, and not understanding the ‘why’ behind something. And that's something that I personally, as an educator, have been trying to do, is give them that ‘why’.” - Sam Hughes28:58 - “I'm hopeful that before someone applies to an athletic training program, they look into the profession, they look into the mean salary, and they understand, ‘Okay, maybe this isn't the highest paying job,’ and then they come in with a passion of helping people.” - Sam Hughes41:56 - “Yeah, interprofessional collaboration, I think, is going to be really big and something we want to see across all healthcare professions. Because athletic training, our scope, is so broad, and we do so much, and sometimes I think we don't like to lean on other healthcare professions, but we want to make sure we create a well-rounded sports medicine team. And getting students that exposure early on in the classroom is going to only set them up for success later on.” - Sam HughesLINKS Samantha Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-hughes-2204212b4 University of Idaho: https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/profile/samantha_hughes/overview School of Health and Medical Professions: https://www.uidaho.edu/health-medical-professions RELATED EPISODES:How Isokinetic Tech is Changing Rehab and Performance (Rob Potash) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FEURDPIwEmk&t=1s SPONSORS: Met One Technologies - http://www.met1tech.comGet Raw - https://www.getrawshots.com DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#AthleticTraining #ClinicalEducation #HealthcareEducation #CAATE #SportsMedicine

In an era where healthcare is rapidly evolving, the path from being a new graduate to a seasoned expert requires a commitment to lifelong learning and a strategic approach to professional growth.In this episode, host Andrew Rizza sits down with Tom Denninger, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, the Vice President of Clinical Development at ATI Physical Therapy, and Executive Director of the Institute for Musculoskeletal Advancement (iMSKA). Denninger has spent much of his career focused on how to support clinicians to achieve clinical excellence in every stage of their careers. Together, they explore the evolution of continuing education, residency training, and mentorship in sports medicine, far beyond just CEUs. The conversation covers ATI’s MSK Certification and the launch of iMSKA, an innovative program that is bridging the gap between education, research, and patient care. Denninger discusses how mentorship should function in practice, introducing the concept of a "professional cabinet” and explaining the difference between formal and informal mentorship. He also offers valuable advice for new graduates, experienced clinicians, and leaders looking to achieve and maintain excellence for the long term in healthcare.MEET THE GUESTDoctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Vice President of Clinical Development at ATI Physical TherapyBoard-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists (FAAOMPT)Executive Director of the Institute for Musculoskeletal Advancement (iMSKA)TOPICS DISCUSSEDThe evolution of post-professional education The MSK Certification & the Institute for Musculoskeletal Advancement (iMSKA)Opportunities for CEU creditsFormal and informal mentorship Advice for new graduatesHIGHLIGHTS01:08 — Denninger's Career Journey03:16 — Post-Professional Education07:10 — MSK Certification Explained09:49 — Use Cases for the Program12:36 — The Importance of Revisiting the Basics14:32 — The Evolution of iMSKA16:33 — iMSKA Programs & Research Fellowships19:22 — Vision for Clinical Development at ATI23:15 — How To Get CEU Credits26:16 — Building Professional Competencies29:41 — The Evolution of Mentorship34:36 — Informal Mentorship39:56 — Clinician Feedback44:13 — Advice for New Graduates51:26 — Denninger Outside the ClinicQUOTES:32:52 - “‘Mentorship' is such a vogue word out there. When we think about how people learn, it comes down to this kind of universal principle of 70-20-10 — 70% of what you learn is going to be by doing, 20% is going to come from projects and collaboration, and 10 is going to come from didactic information, things along those lines. Mentorship falls in that 20% where it should enhance the 70 and the 10.” - Tom Denninger36:18 - “And it can be sometimes a little bit weird where you're like, ‘Will you be my mentor?’ That's not always how that works. I do think a program is good, and someone being assigned that skill, that doing it is important. But I always encourage people to think a little bit more of like ‘the cabinet’; what's your professional cabinet? How do you collect people that you can bounce ideas off of?” - Tom Denninger38:35 - “And the two-way street of mentorship is important, right? By being your mentor, it's helping me reflect on my practice and helping me identify gaps in my knowledge. So it should always be mutually beneficial.” - Tom Denninger50:27 - “When you choose an employer, what you're really selecting is an opportunity. At the end of the day, it's what are you going to do with that opportunity?” - Tom DenningerLINKSTom Denninger - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-denninger-dpt-ocs-faaompt-69774ba6/ ATI Physical Therapy - https://www.atipt.com  ATI Development Programs - https://careers.atipt.com/development-programs iMSKA - https://i-mska.org DISCLAIMER The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#PhysicalTherapy #HealthcareEducation #SportsMedicine #MusculoskeletalAdvancement #CEUcredits

From experiencing homelessness and living in a tent as a child to becoming a three-time NFL captain and a Harvard-educated venture capitalist, Isaiah Kacyvenski’s journey is a masterclass in the power of resilience and a relentless work ethic.In this episode, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth sit down with Kacyvenski for a conversation that explores the human side of elite performance. Kacyvenski opens up about the raw reality of his upbringing in upstate New York, the “epiphany" he had at age 14 that led to his commitment to let no one outwork him, and the grueling challenge of balancing a pre-med curriculum with football at Harvard. He talks about his impressive NFL career, how he navigated his career-ending injuries, and the difficult decision to retire. Kacyvenski also explains his involvement with the NFL Players Association’s Health and Safety (Mackey-White) Committee, and his decision to donate his brain to research through the Concussion Legacy Foundation. Throughout the conversation, he shares wisdom on leadership and why enjoying the journey matters just as much as “the grind”. MEET THE GUEST- Pre-medicine bachelor’s degree from Harvard University & MBA from Harvard Business School- Eight-year NFL veteran & three-time Special Teams Captain for the Seattle Seahawks- Founder and Managing Partner at Will Ventures- NFLPA Health & Safety (Mackey-White) Committee Member- Concussion Legacy Foundation Brain DonorTOPICS DISCUSSED - Overcoming poverty and building resilience - The “Let No One Outwork You” philosophy- Leadership in the NFL and beyond- Navigating career-ending injuries- Athlete health, safety, and concussion researchHIGHLIGHTS00:54 - Childhood Poverty & Mom's Influence04:37 - Kacyvenski's Epiphany at Age 1408:07 - Passing the "Grind" Mentality Down to His Children10:16 - Sponsor Met One Technologies11:17 - Early Role Models: Dan Gable and Walter Payton13:49 - Dr. James Andrews & NFL Retirement18:11 - Relationship With Domonique Foxworth19:03 - NFLPA Health & Safety Committee20:51 - Concussion Legacy Foundation & Brain Donation24:58 - Advice to Football-Playing Son26:25 - Advice to Younger Self28:18 - NFL Mentors30:19 - The Impact of Coach Murphy34:00 - Seattle Seahawks: Special Teams Captaincy36:36 - The Oprah Winfrey Show ExperienceQUOTES:01:21 - ““I was the youngest of five kids, but grew up in poverty. We were homeless for two big parts of our childhood, living in a tent. And some of my earliest memories when I was little was, ‘My family's not going to live like this. I don't want to live like this. My family's not going to live like this.’ And that was something that drove me in a lot of different ways.” - Isaiah Kacyvenski05:06 - “And all of a sudden it hit me like a lightning bolt. I had this complete epiphany of like, 'Oh my gosh, you did not work hard enough. You didn't work hard enough to look back with no regrets.’ That was all on myself. And that moment really changed everything for me. And I woke up the next morning, made a sign that said, ‘Let no one outwork you today,’ and put it over my bed. And I still have it.” - Isaiah Kacyvenski09:51 - “And having met so many different people across so many different walks of life, you’ve just got to figure out — whether you're rich, you're poor, it doesn't matter — how hard are you willing to work and how passionate can you be about what you want to do?” - Isaiah Kacyvenski22:57 - “Thinking about it, I was like, ‘I don't want to donate my brain.’ I was like, ‘Well, why wouldn't I? I'm an organ donor, and this game has been such an important part of me, I want it to survive and thrive. I want to be able to donate my brain to science.’” - Isaiah KacyvenskiLINKS Isaiah Kacyvenski LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaiahkacyvenski Will Ventures: https://www.willventures.com NFLPA Mackey - White Health and Safety Committee: https://nflpa.com/active-players/nflpa-mackey-white-health-and-safety-committee Concussion Legacy Foundation: https://dev.concussionfoundation.org Sponsor:Met One Technologies: http://www.met1tech.comRELATED EPISODES“The Surgeon Who Saved Sports - Meet Dr. Andrews”: https://youtu.be/tkvI56ZiabA “Former NFL Cornerback Played the Game, Now He’s Changing It” (Domonique Foxworth): https://youtu.be/odPHjAMB8Ec DISCLAIMERThe opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#IsaiahKacyvenski #NFLHealth #SportsMedicine #ConcussionAwareness #VentureCapital

Despite the expanding role and value of athletic trainers in healthcare, outdated laws, slow-moving legislative processes, and inconsistent regulation are limiting their scope of practice.Jamie Musler, LPD, ATC, is a governor-appointed member and chair of the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Allied Health and an executive board member for the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA). He has spent decades shaping policy, investigating ethical violations, and advocating for the future of athletic training.In this episode, recorded live at the 2025 NATA Convention, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth team up with Musler to explore how legislation is written, why meaningful change moves so slowly, and how outdated language continues to restrict where and how athletic trainers can practice. Musler explains how to advocate for better laws and speed up the processes, before shedding light on alternative advocacy paths available to athletic trainers.MEET THE GUEST- Certified Athletic Trainer- Law and Public Policy qualification- Member and chair of the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Allied Health- Executive board member for the National Athletic Trainers AssociationTOPICS DISCUSSED- Legislative Process and Lobbying- The Role of Athletic Trainers- Advocacy and Strategy- Professional EthicsHIGHLIGHTS00:51 – What Is Legislative Law?01:34 – Lobbying: Health Professionals vs. Government05:06 – Speeding Up Legislation06:37 – Can NATA Reboot Regulation?08:03 – The Expanding Role of Athletic Trainers09:11 – How Outdated Definitions Limit Athletic Trainers14:04 – The Supervising Physician Relationship16:38 – Licensure vs. Certification Explained18:09 – How Massachusetts Regulates Licenses21:15 – Common Ethical Challenges Seen by NATA24:03 – NATA and the Board of Allied Health26:38 – How To Advocate for Better Laws30:23 – Is the “Athletic Trainer” Title the Problem?32:31 – Engaging the Next Generation of Athletic Trainers35:15 – Musler’s Neck Injury StoryQUOTES:12:52 - “One of the great strengths of athletic trainers is we see our patients far before they get to the traditional healthcare system. We're the original primary care provider.” - Jamie Musler26:07 - “And so much of [ethics] is grounded in societal behaviors and beliefs and upbringing and your morals and values. And, to some extent, it is a moving target, and different people could have different ethical values. The challenge is, can a profession set clear boundaries that establish the ethics of that discipline?” - Jamie Musler28:54 - “My mindset has changed considerably. What we've been trying to do in athletic training is attack the problem from the most difficult perspective: changing a law. I'm starting to believe that there are other routes.” - Jamie Musler29:38 - “It might be easier to move the needle by dealing with the administrative side as opposed to the legislative one.” - Jamie MuslerLINKSJamie Musler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-musler-47b493aNATA: https://www.nata.orgMassachusetts Board of Registration in Allied Health and Human Services Professions: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/board-of-registration-of-allied-mental-health-and-human-services-professionsSponsorsMet One Technologies: http://www.met1tech.com/Get Raw Wellness Shots: https://www.getrawshots.com/DISCLAIMERThe opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#HealthcareLegislation #athletictrainer #healthprofessionals #MedicalEthics #NATA

Over an 11-year NFL career, Rob Ninkovich went from an undrafted free agent to a two-time Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots. Central to that journey was his relationship with his medical team, including the renowned Head Team Physician, Dr. Thomas Gill. In this episode, they join hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth for an inside look at the physical and mental demands of a professional football career, as well as the evolving culture of athlete care.Dr. Gill offers the surgeon's perspective on balancing an athlete's career demands with long-term health, while Rob shares his personal journey of overcoming a major knee injury, the mental toll of career-threatening injuries like this one, and the importance of athlete-doctor trust. They discuss the influence of agents on recovery, the impact of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) on college athletes, and what it takes to build championship-winning teams. Rob also explains his personal "availability over ability" philosophy and how he decided when and how to retire on his own terms.This conversation is a deep dive into what it takes mentally, physically, and financially to achieve and sustain greatness in the NFL and well into retirement. MEET THE GUESTSRob NinkovichFormer New England Patriots linebacker Two-time Super Bowl champion11-Year NFL Career Experience Overcame a major rookie-year knee injuryDr. Thomas Gill, MD Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine SpecialistFormer Head Team Physician for the New England PatriotsTOPICS DISCUSSED Injuries and rehab in the NFL Deciding to retire and post-retirement supportNIL and college footballThe Qualities of winning teams and coachesHIGHLIGHTS01:03 – Ninkovich and Dr. Gill’s Relationship03:22 – Distrust Between Athletes and Team Doctors09:55 – Ninkovich’s Early Career Injury14:24 – How Injury and Rehab Decisions Have Changed20:47 – The Rise of Personal Injury Gurus and Fads24:31 – Mental Side of Deciding To Retire From Football30:18 – Lack of Post-Retirement Support33:04 – NIL and College Football41:25 – Coachability vs. Star Ratings47:40 – Ninkovich’s Journey52:36 – Availability vs. Ability in Pro Sports57:21 – Ninkovich on the Current New England Patriots1:02:00 – The Conversation at Halftime at the Atlanta Game1:04:58 – Ninkovich’s Favorite Super Bowl Victory1:07:00 – Best Defensive Player Ninkovich Has Played WithQUOTES:03:09 - “I see you as you're a human being first and you're an athlete second, and so I've got your best interests at heart.” - Dr. Thomas Gill04:10 - “I always had this common sense approach to an injury, and I was always knowing, in the back of my head, if an injury was to affect my time on the field, then that affects my opportunity. So as a player, you're always trying to stay as healthy as possible, do your very best, and also have the best medical and listen to what they're trying to tell you.” - Rob Ninkovich53:05 - “It's not the coach's fault if I can't play or if I'm not available. And availability is way more reliable than ability. So, if you're really good, but you're not available, what am I going to do about that? I'm going to have to go with the guy that's available.” - Rob Ninkovich58:57 - “Now, to me, what that means is you don't have to be a vocal leader at any point, you have to perform. So performance is the best indicator of leadership. If you can't perform, I can't follow you. But if you're really performing week in and week out, you don't have to say a word, you really don't have to say anything, you're a leader.” - Rob NinkovichLINKSRob Ninkovich @nink50: https://www.instagram.com/nink50/ New England Patriots: https://www.patriots.com Dr. Thomas Gill, MD: https://nebh.org/find-a-doctor/thomas-gill-md Former NFL Cornerback Played the Game, Now He’s Changing It: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odPHjAMB8Ec&t=131s Sponsored by Met One Orthopedics – The only U.S.-based Latin-owned orthopedic manufacturer, specializing in upper and lower extremity solutions. Now featuring the newly launched Fortis distal radius plating system.met1tech.com for more information.DISCLAIMERThe opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#RobNinkovich #Patriots #ACLRecovery #SportsMedicine #NFLInjuries

Over the past few years, the medical treatment of weight loss with various GLP-1 medications has dominated headlines, and conflicting stories on social media have created confusion and controversy. Today’s guest, Dr. Meghan Garcia-Webb, bridges the worlds of obesity care and life coaching to help patients conquer weight challenges through science, behavior change, and sustainable habits. In this episode, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth sit down with Dr. Garcia-Webb to unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in modern healthcare. From GLP-1 medications (and why they actually work) to the biology of hunger, and the cultural traps that keep us overeating, this conversation dives into the science, the stigma, and the reality of trying to stay healthy in a world engineered for convenience.  Dr. Garcia-Webb blends medical precision with honesty as she debunks myths and offers practical, sustainable lifestyle advice. Whether you’re curious about GLP-1 medications, struggling with weight yourself, or just want to understand the science behind our modern health crisis, this episode delivers clarity without judgment.MEET THE GUESTAn internal medicine and a weight medicine concierge physician.Has a B.S. from Tufts University and an M.D. from the University of Vermont Medical School. Completed her residency in internal medicine at the University of Massachusetts. Has been on staff at Mass General Brigham – Newton-Wellesley Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess HealthCare.TOPICS DISCUSSED - Obesity: Medicine vs. Lifestyle Changes - GLP-1 Medications and How They Work- Practical Nutrition TipsHIGHLIGHTS00:00 Introduction01:41 Dr. Meghan Garcia-Webb’s Background03:16 Studying Obesity Medicine04:55 Obesity Statistics and Demographics07:26 Meds vs. Lifestyle Changes09:11 Causes of Obesity11:30 Misconceptions13:28 What Is Good Nutrition14:17 Fighting Market Forces18:20 Lifestyle Coaching20:07 FDA-Approved Weight Loss Medications22:58 How GLP-1 Meds Work24:26 Effectiveness of GLP-1s27:02 Lifelong Medication Reality28:51 Why Lifestyle Still Matters32:00 Safety, Efficacy & Side Effects36:40 GLP-1s in Addiction Medicine40:30 Willpower vs. Medication44:12 The Dangers of Social Media45:18 Dr. Garcia-Webb’s Top Three Takeaways49:39 Eating ’Til You’re 80% Full53:09 Contacts & ResourcesQUOTES:09:03 - “I don't really have a problem starting a medication when I first see somebody, — if I feel like it's the right thing for that person.”11:50 - “I think the big misunderstanding is that there's one magic thing or one supplement that people can take or one workout that they can do.”19:19 - “A lot of people think they have to give up something or it's going to be harder, but what I really want to tell people is this can be better, much better.”47:46 - “One of my top three takeaways, one of them would be just eat and don't do anything else while you're eating. Don't be on your phone.”LINKS Dr. Meghan Garcia-Webb: www.weightmedicinemd.com "Weight Medicine with Dr. Meghan”: https://www.youtube.com/c/WellnesswithDrMeghan DISCLAIMERThe opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.#WeightLossMedicine #GLP1Drugs #ObesityTreatment #Ozempic #WeightLossJourney

Isokinetic technology has become one of the most reliable ways to measure joint performance, guide rehabilitation, and elevate strength training. In this episode, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth sit down with Rob Potash, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at CSMi Solutions, to explore how modern isokinetic systems are transforming sports medicine. Rob explains the origins of isokinetic testing through the rise and fall of the classic Cybex machines and how CSMi stepped in to solve long-standing problems with accuracy, durability, and data integrity.Rob introduces the HUMAC Isokinetic Machine and the HUMAC BIKE, detailing how each device improves muscle testing, injury tracking, and return to play decisions. He breaks down what meaningful data should look like for clinicians and coaches, why objective measurement matters more than ever, and how Sportsware continues to evolve as a central tool for managing athlete health. The conversation looks ahead to new innovations including a rower built for isokinetic training and the next generation of HUMAC machines designed to simplify assessments without losing precision. Rob also shares his perspective on the growing role of artificial intelligence and how AI will shape testing, rehabilitation, and personalized performance planning in the years to come.Meet The Guest: VP Sales & Marketing at CSMi SolutionsTopics Discussed: History of CybexSportswareThe Future of Sports MedicineHighlights: 0:00 Introduction3:15 Cybex3:50 Cybex issues8:37 Cybex disappearing19:35 Data23:53 Future of Sportsware29:06 Rower35:27 Future machines37:20 Integrating AIThe opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.Do you want to Get Well, Get Healthy, Look Your Best, Feel your Best? Then you need GeT Raw! A special blend, including ginger and turmeric to assist with Inflammation, Digestion, Immunity Cognition.Met One Technologies: Enhancing healthcare quality and patient outcomes through innovative medical device solutions, driven by a commitment to excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.

Every summer in Falmouth, Massachusetts, thousands of runners push their bodies to the edge in one of the most iconic road races in America. Behind the scenes, a world-class medical team stands ready to respond to everything from dehydration to life-threatening heat stroke. At the center of it all is Dr. John Jardine - Emergency Medicine Physician, Medical Director of the Falmouth Road Race, and Chief Medical Officer at the Korey Stringer Institute.In this episode, Dr. Cameron Roth and Andrew Rizza sit down with Dr. Jardine live from NATA 2025 to explore how decades of emergency medicine, research, and innovation have shaped the gold standard for athlete safety. From his early days as a New York EMT and Paramedic to leading medical operations at Falmouth for over twenty years, Dr. Jardine shares how real-world experience meets cutting-edge science in the treatment of exertional heat illness.He breaks down how his team developed and implemented cold-water immersion protocols that have saved countless lives, the evolution of on-site medical coverage for endurance events, and how collaborations with the Korey Stringer Institute are revolutionizing the care of athletes, laborers, and even warfighters worldwide.Dr. Jardine also offers insights into real-time analytics, field triage, and communication strategies that make large-scale events like Falmouth safer each year. His leadership and research continue to drive new standards in emergency response, proving that preparedness, precision, and passion can truly save lives.Meet The GuestDr. John Jardine - Emergency Medical Physician, Medical Director Falmouth Road Race, Chief Medical Officer Corey Stringer Institute Topics Discussed Falmouth RaceCold Water Emersion Revolutionizing Athlete TreatmentsHighlights:0:00 Intro0:30 Welcome to NATA 20250:33 Planning Medical Coverage2:48 Coverage Evolution4:55 Korey Stringer Institute6:40 Emergency response8:20 Implementing the standard9:55 Heat Illness Signs11:05 Starting Rapid Cooling15:10 Ambulance Communication16:30 Event Preparation17:45 Treating a visibly distressed athlete19:10 Chronic Conditions20:10 Expectation tips21:15 Integrating analytics22:35 Falmouth experience24:20 Success26:10 Future of Korey Stringer InstituteQuotes:3:04 “The world is heating up.”5:00 “The best and quickest way to cool somebody is cold water immersion.”10:21 “There really is no reason they shouldn’t be doing it.”12:11 “The organ system that’s first affected by heat is the central nervous system.”16:01 “Cold water immersion doesn’t necessarily have to be in a tub.”18:10 “Hypohydration or dehydration is certainly a precursor for heat stroke.”22:28 “We want a cooling rate that’s going to cool them as quickly as possible.”30:03 “We send 90% of our people home from the tent.”The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.Do you want to Get Well, Get Healthy, Look Your Best, Feel your Best? Then you need GeT Raw! A special blend, including ginger and turmeric to assist with Inflammation, Digestion, Immunity Cognition.Met One Technologies: Enhancing healthcare quality and patient outcomes through innovative medical device solutions, driven by a commitment to excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.

In sports medicine, few professionals bridge the gap between rehabilitation and surgical precision like Dr. Catherine Logan. A former physical therapist and personal trainer turned orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Logan brings a rare, 360-degree view to injury, prevention, and recovery. Now at Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics (COSMO) in Denver, she specializes in complex knee and shoulder reconstruction for athletes pushing their bodies to the limit.In this episode, Dr. Cameron Roth and Andrew Rizza dive deep with Dr. Logan into what makes an athlete “unbroken.” She shares her journey from working the clinic floor at Johns Hopkins to leading advanced surgical care for high-performance athletes. Dr. Logan breaks down the latest in ACL reconstruction protocols, explains how her team approaches meniscus and MCL tears, and discusses where biologics fit into the future of healing.They explore the differences between adolescent and professional recoveries, the science behind preventing ski-related knee injuries, and the realities of pushing back too soon after surgery. Dr. Logan’s insight reminds us that recovery is both science and art - a process that demands patience, discipline, and trust between athlete and care team.From the operating room to the slopes, this conversation is a masterclass in performance longevity and resilience, the foundation of what it truly means to be The Unbroken Athlete.Meet the Guest:Sports Medicine Orthopedic Surgeon at Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopedics (COSMO) in Denver, COSpecializes in complex knee and shoulder surgeryWorked with Riz in BostonTopics Discussed:Handling the different type of knee tearsPreventing ski injuriesCreating the Unbroken AthleteHighlights:0:00 Introduction2:13 Background9:14 Reconstruction protocols13:10 Meniscus tears15:35 MCL tears18:04 Biologics19:50 Reconstruction recovery for high schoolers26:16 Preventing ski injuries28:38 Knee Injuries30:45 Free time32:54 Fun Fact35:53 The Unbroken AthleteQuotes:“What you care most about is the retear rate.”"It’s really important that people go to a PT that’s convenient for them.”“I’m always hoping to fix and preserve, but we can’t always do that.”“They’re doing everything they can do to avoid surgery.”“I’m a big fan of giving all the options and weighing the pros and the cons because I don’t think there’s one solution for everybody.”“I like helping people. That’s what we do.”“If I see 100 ACLs a winter, 98 of them are skiers.”“Can we change these grit scores and will that change the physical outcome?”The opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.

Domonique Foxworth has lived the full spectrum of the athlete’s journey - from reaching the NFL as a cornerback for the Broncos, Falcons, and Ravens, to leading the NFL Players Association, to becoming one of the most influential voices in sports media today. After earning his MBA at Harvard Business School, he transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting and writing, now hosting The Domonique Foxworth Show and appearing regularly across ESPN platforms.In this conversation with hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth, Domonique opens up about his path to the NFL, the grind of recovery and training, and the relationships that shape player performance and safety. He shares candid insights into the realities of youth sports injuries, organizational differences between leagues, and what makes a truly great team. Domonique also reflects on his time advocating for players in collective bargaining, the complexities of retirement, and the lessons he’s carried into his media career.From facing Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, to defining what it means to be a good organization, to breaking down today’s refereeing and rising talents like Drake Maye, Domonique brings his sharp perspective, humor, and honesty. This episode is as much about the human side of the game as it is about the highlights on the field.Meet The GuestHost of the Domonique Foxworth ShowFormer NFL Cornerback for the Broncos, Falcons, RavensPlayed College Football at the University of MarylandTopics DiscussedReaching the NFLBeing a Host of an ESPN ShowGreatest Opponents on the fieldHighlights0:00 Introduction1:59 NFL Goal9:03 Recovery10:05 Training relationships11:30 Player Safety13:15 Injury Policy15:37 Youth Sports Injuries18:51 Training staff relationships20:30 Day to day uncertainty21:28 Retirement22:32 CBA24:15 Building the NFL26:53 Jerry Richardson28:10 Defining a Good Organization29:43 Organizational Differences between the NFL and NBA31:15 Athlete relationships from media32:28 Retirement Process35:07 The Show37:11 Peyton Manning & Tom Brady42:44 Greatest Opponents44:57 Drake Maye46:15 NFL Refereeing48:30 Charlie Kravitz

Sports media has transformed dramatically in the last decade—and Charlie Kravitz has had a front row seat to it all. Hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth sit down with their close friend to explore Charlie’s journey from producing ESPN’s Highly Questionable with Dan Le Batard to becoming an executive producer and co-host of The Domonique Foxworth Show.Charlie opens up about his path through the industry, from his early days behind the scenes to stepping into the spotlight alongside former NFL player Domonique Foxworth. He shares the lessons learned along the way, the importance of storytelling in sports, and how humor, analysis, and cultural commentary can shape the fan experience.Together, they pull back the curtain on how sports coverage has evolved—from the rise of analytics and the explosion of sports gambling to what truly separates elite athletes from the rest. Charlie’s perspective offers a rare inside look at how sports media continues to change, and what it takes to stay ahead in such a dynamic space.Meet The GuestProducer, ESPN's (debatable) at Rydholm Projects Inc.TopicsBehind the Scenes of Sports MediaAnalytics roleThe effect of Gambling in the IndustryHighlights0:00 Introduction2:36 Background7:19 Traits for Success10:25 Sports Media Transformation13:57 Analysis and Analytics15:50 Sports from Sports Media Perspective19:38 Evolution22:30 Staying ahead of the game25:45 Sports SIgnificance28:10 Football29:13 MMA32:06 Injury34:13 Insiders36:32 Speculation Pressure37:38 Clickbait39:28 Gambling in Sports Media41:26 Gambling in the Locker Room44:16 Refereering45:50 Favorite Athlete48:17 Overrated Athlete50:30 Lebron Jordan Debate52:14 NILThe opinions presented on Behind the Sports Medicine are those of the host and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated institutions or partners. The content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before making any health or treatment decisions. Behind the Sports Medicine and its affiliates assume no liability for the accuracy or application of the information discussed.

A.J. Duffy III, MS, ATC, PT has spent more than four decades shaping the future of athletic training. From the sidelines of the University of Michigan and Temple University to 34 years as Head Athletic Trainer at Widener University, he has mentored generations of student-athletes and young professionals. Today, he serves as the 16th President of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA), where he leads the profession into a new era of growth, advocacy, and impact.In this conversation with hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth, A.J. shares what it means to be a leader, how NATA is addressing the evolving needs of athletes and clinicians, and why preparing the next generation of athletic trainers is his most important mission. He also reflects on his career in both clinical care and organizational leadership, his passion for service, and his commitment to building a stronger, more resilient profession for years to come.Meet the GuestPresident of National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA)Head Athletic Trainer at Widener UniversityFormer Assistant Athletic Trainer at University of Michigan & Temple UniversityTopics DiscussedBeing a LeaderThe future of NATAPreparing the next generation of athletic trainersHighlights: 0:00 Introduction0:40 Welcome to NATA 20250:56 Leadership Philosophy3:25 Athletic Training in 20508:17 NATA Today11:00 Athletic Training12:22 Catastrophic events18:46 Next generation21:23 Challenges with MovementDo you want to Get Well, Get Healthy, Look Your Best, Feel your Best? Then you need GeT Raw! A special blend, including ginger and turmeric to assist with Inflammation, Digestion, Immunity Cognition.Met One Technologies: Enhancing healthcare quality and patient outcomes through innovative medical device solutions, driven by a commitment to excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.

 Mitch Hauschildt is the Prevention, Rehab, and Physical Performance Coordinator at Missouri State University, where for more than 19 years he has overseen injury prevention and rehabilitation for over 400 athletes across 21 varsity sports. Beyond his role at Missouri State, Mitch serves as a Lead Instructor with RockTape and an Instructor with MasterDryNeedling, educating healthcare professionals on advanced therapeutic techniques.He is also the Founder and President of Maximum Training Solutions, LLC, a full-service sports medicine consultancy, and a Founding Board Member of Man Up and Go, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to strengthening families and communities worldwide.On this episode of the Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast, recorded live from the NATA convention, hosts Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth sit down with Mitch to explore some of today’s most impactful tools and trends in athlete care - from dry needling, cupping, and red light therapy to the evolving role of NIL in college athletics.Meet the GuestPrevention, Rehab and Physical Performance Coordinator at Missouri State UniversityInstructor at RockTape and MasterdryneedlingFounded Maximum Training Solutions, LLC and Man Up and GoTopics DiscussedBeing one of the only Dry Needling Athletic Trainers in the CountryImpact of NIL and the Transfer PortalThe Benefits of Kinesiology TapeHighlights0:00 Introduction0:38 Welcome to NATA 20251:15 Dry Needling Experience2:40 Pathologies using Dry Needling3:36 Tools used alongside5:17 Addressing walk-in athletes7:30 Overcoming barriers11:22 Raising Awareness15:54 Injury Management to Performance19:10 Functional Movement Screens24:19 Adapting in the Transfer Portal era28:04 Thoughts on NIL29:35 Kinesiology Tape/Rocktape35:26 Foam Rolling36:58 Go-to warm up drill37:23 Favorite budget recovery tool38:53 Worst Myth42:03 Great Sports Medicine TeamDo you want to Get Well, Get Healthy, Look Your Best, Feel your Best? Then you need GeT Raw! A special blend, including ginger and turmeric to assist with Inflammation, Digestion, Immunity Cognition.Met One Technologies: Enhancing healthcare quality and patient outcomes through innovative medical device solutions, driven by a commitment to excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.

Eric Cressey has built a career at the highest levels of sports performance by combining cutting-edge science, hands-on coaching, and an unmatched ability to connect with athletes. As Co-Founder and President of Cressey Sports Performance, with world-class facilities in Hudson, MA and Jupiter, FL, Eric has created a destination for athletes across the spectrum — from youth prospects to Olympic medalists — and a home base for over 100 MLB players every off-season. In 2020, he took on an even bigger stage as the New York Yankees’ Director of Player Health and Performance, where he oversees strategies to keep elite players healthy, resilient, and performing at their peak.In this episode, host Andrew Rizza sit down with Eric to explore the philosophy and systems that have made him one of the most sought-after coaches in the game. They break down the differences in training approaches between youth, amateur, and professional athletes and how to tailor programs to meet each athlete where they are. Eric shares his candid perspective on the alarming rise of arm injuries in baseball, the role of early specialization, and what can be done to reverse the trend. He also opens up about the deep relationships forged through years of coaching, the trust it takes to guide a player’s career, and the lessons learned from working with some of the game’s biggest stars.From his academic background, a Master’s in Kinesiology from UConn and certification as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist, to his influence as an author, speaker, and advisor to organizations like USA Baseball and New Balance, Eric’s impact reaches far beyond the weight room. Whether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or fan of the game, this conversation offers a masterclass in athlete development, injury prevention, and the power of building people, not just players.Meet Eric:Co-Founder and President of Cressey Sports PerformanceDirector of Player Health and Performance for the New York YankeesFacilities in Hudson, MA and Jupiter, FLTopics Discussed:The differences in training between client typesAddressing the Arm Injuries EpidemicThe relationships built from the jobHighlights:0:00 Introduction1:40 Self Overview5:17 Training Differences6:10 Key Exercises8:10 Assessment Tools13:55 Average Timetable15:00 Client Types18:21 Discussion to improve21:57 Program Differences24:50 Training Devices30:19 Biggest Misconceptions33:04 Arm Injuries Epidemic42:39 Most Rewarding Part44:24 Mentorship46:32 Advice50:17 Fun Fact

Danny Hultzen Danny Hultzen was destined for stardom. A two-time All-American and the second overall pick in the 2011 MLB Draft, he was one of the most promising left-handed pitchers in the game. But after multiple shoulder surgeries and years of grueling rehab, Danny’s dream took a different turn. He made it to the majors, but his lasting impact is now being made off the field—shaping the future of the Chicago Cubs as a key leader in player development.In this episode, Danny joins Andrew Rizza and Dr. Cameron Roth to share his journey from elite prospect to front office executive. He walks us through the highs and lows of professional baseball, the toll of injury, and the unrelenting mindset it took to keep showing up. They break down what today’s top athletes need to succeed—from performance-based data to locker room dynamics, mental pressure to physical recovery, and the role of sports science in producing wins. Danny also opens up about how he mentors rising stars, tunes out media noise, and draws on his own struggles to guide the next generation.This is a conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the people who turn pain into purpose—for themselves and for the teams they help build.HIGHLIGHTS:0:00 Introduction2:08 Background8:20 Rehab Process12:26 Managing Pressure14:39 Mindset17:00 Prospective Athletes Message19:42 External Pressure21:30 Tuning out the noise25:53 Locker Room Dynamic28:05 Mentor33:00 Injury Media35:52 Nutrition & Supplementation39:32 Recovery Aids44:20 Performance Based Data Analytics48:12 Foundational Development50:36 Measuring Lower Body Strength51:45 Sports Science to Wins54:57 Passing Time56:57 Superstitions1:00:15 The Injury Report1:03:02 Advancements in SurgeryQUOTES:4:02 “I grew up as a person and as a baseball player.” 5:14 “The doctors told me that there was a very good chance that I would never throw a ball again.” 13:25 “Look at things in the long term vs just the short term.” 14:35 “99% of it came from me and it was all made up in my own head.” 19:24 “Everyone can take the action of just admitting where they’re at.” 20:28 “A lot of it is building confidence and building self assurance and how valuable it is.” 23:04 “The pressure is probably the same, it’s just more visible now.” 25:18 “Developing the skill of blocking out the noise is essential.” 28:10 “It’s inherently a selfish game because nobody in minor league baseball wants to be where they are right now.” 30:53 “Being a good teammate is vital for a team’s success.” 34:46 “That small distinction between “The” vs “My” is a very powerful thing.” 40:26 “In baseball, I don’t know if anyone’s ever playing at 100%. I don”t know if anyone's playing at 90%.” 42:50 “The only thing you can do is provide them with the information and resources that help achieve their goals.” 48:00 “From the player’s perspective, things that could be recommended by the organization, they see that as a way to be used against them.” 53:01 “The resources and the data are light years ahead of where I was.” 56:47 “Your lower body is probably the most pivotal piece for a pitcher to develop and core stability.” 1:00:10 “That’s another data point that says maybe we need to take a step back.” 1:02:13 “When we are trying to produce major league players, we are also trying to maximize a guy's performance and give him every opportunity to succeed.” 1:24:14 “Those lessons I learned as a player are applicable to everyone.”

Dr. James Andrews is the most trusted name in sports medicine—a pioneer in arthroscopic surgery and the “go-to doctor” for the world’s most elite athletes, from Michael Jordan and Roger Clemens to Adrian Peterson and Bo Jackson. Over a legendary five-decade career, he revolutionized orthopedic surgery, co-founded the American Sports Medicine Institute and the Andrews Institute, and mentored over 650 fellows who now carry his legacy forward.In this episode, Dr. Andrews reflects on what it meant to be the surgeon athletes called when everything was on the line. We dive deep into the mechanics of Tommy John surgery, the evolution of surgical techniques, and why managing recovery expectations is as much about psychology as it is about medicine.We break down the rising epidemic of overuse injuries in youth sports, the critical role parents and coaches play in prevention, and how pitch selection can directly correlate to injury risk. Dr. Andrews also shares powerful stories about building trust with players in-game, collaborating with medical teams under pressure, and even consulting for the Saudi Arabian royal family.Dr. James Andrews didn't just fix athletes—he reshaped the future of sports medicine. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, precision, and building a legacy that spans generations.MEET DR. ANDREWS:Pioneer of arthroscopic surgery innovationsTrusted surgeon for Michael Jordan, Roger Clemens, and countless othersFounder of ASMI and the Andrews Institute—leaders in injury prevention and educationTOPICS:Overuse injuries in youth athletesThe Tommy John recovery processThe art of managing athlete expectationsHIGHLIGHTS: 0:00 Introduction1:48 Being the go to Sports Medicine Doctor5:42 SLAP tear future7:20 Managing recovery expectations9:08 In-game injury conversations11:18 Building rapport14:07 Overuse injuries in Youth Sports17:55 Pitch Selection injury correlation20:55 Getting Parents to understand overuse injuries25:28 Tommy John Injuries28:40 Evolution of procedures30:31 Andrews Institute Philosophy40:10 Saudi Arabian Royal FamilyThe information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a licensed healthcare provider for guidance related to your specific situation.

In this episode, hosts Andrew Rizza MS, ATC, LAT and Dr. Cameron Roth MD, MHS sit down with Brian Petrone, PA-C of Boston Orthopedics and Wellness to dive into the latest innovations in regenerative medicine. Together, they explore the real-world applications of PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections, peptide therapies like BPC-157 and TB-500, and the emerging use of NAD+ and stem cells in sports injury recovery.Love our content? Show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform.Stay connected on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, or visit ajrsportsscience.podbean.com.Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science. Thank you for your continued support!#AOSSM #NATA #APTA #ATIPT #Orthoarizona #bostonorthopedicsandwellness

In this episode of Behind the Sports Medicine, Dr. Kai Mithoefer joins host Andrew Rizza to explore the multifaceted world of work-related injuries. Framing injured workers as “industrial athletes,” Dr. Mithoefer discusses the psychological and physical components of recovery, the importance of individualized rehab, and the critical role of communication among all stakeholders in patient care.You’ll also hear about Dr. Mithoefer’s personal journey into orthopedics, his philosophy on building trust with patients, and how a supportive environment can empower recovery and return-to-work success.Love our content? Show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform.Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, or visit ajrsportsscience.podbean.com.Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science. Thank you for your continued support!#NATA #orhtoarizona #aossm #apta #sportsmedicine #aaos #AOFAS #BBJI #ATIPT🎧Tune in on your favorite podcast platform!

Dr. Mike Perrone of LA Orthopedic Surgery Specialists joins Dr. Cameron Roth and Andrew Rizza of Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast to break down common foot and ankle injuries, from ankle sprains to Achilles tendon issues. He shares insights on assessment, treatment options—both surgical and non-surgical—and the importance of mental readiness in recovery. Plus, tips on preventing injuries through proper footwear and early intervention.Love our content? Show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform.Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, or visit ajrsportsscience.podbean.com.Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science. Thank you for your continued support!#NATA #orhtoarizona #aossm #apta #sportsmedicine #aaos #AOFAS #laorthos

Episode 30: Pioneering Performance – A Conversation with Sports Scientist Michael CianciosiIn this episode of Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast, host Andrew Rizza sits down with Michael Cianciosi, a seasoned sports scientist whose career spans both Australia and the United States. Michael shares his journey through prominent roles with the Carlton Football Club, Catapult Sports, Boston Red Sox, and most recently with Manager, Athlete Management System (Acting) Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) offering a unique perspective on the global evolution of sports science.Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or sports science enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical insights and forward-thinking strategies for performance optimization in today’s high-tech world.Love our content? Show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform.Stay connected on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, X @ajrsportssci, or visit ajrsportsscience.podbean.com.Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science. Thank you for your continued support!#NATA #BostonRedsox, #catapultsports, #CarltonFBclub #sportsscience #australianInstituteofsport

Ep. 29 of Behind the Sports Medicine features Dr. Jon J.P. Warner of Mass General discussing the evolution of rotator cuff repairs, failed surgeries, non-op treatments, the Latarjet procedure, reverse shoulder arthroplasty, and more. Athletes, surgeons, and sports med pros—don’t miss this deep dive into shoulder surgery! 💪🩺 Love our content? Show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing! Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Stay connected on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, X @ajrsportssci, or visit ajrsportsscience.podbean.com.Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science.#NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #sportsscience #orthopedics #atofmass #OrhtoArizona #Massgeneralshoulderservice #SportsMedicine #ShoulderSurgery #OrthopedicsPodcast #aossm #ajsm

The SAFE ACT (House Bill 1171)”Importance of addressing addiction and falls in the elderly population” Tune into Episode 28 with Nikesh Patel PT, DPT, Executive Director of Alliance for Physical Therapy Quality and Innovation (APTQI).In this episode, Dr. Nikesh Patel discusses his journey in physical therapy and advocacy, focusing on the importance of addressing fall risks in the elderly population. He explains the SAFE Act, which aims to incorporate fall risk assessments into annual wellness visits for Medicare beneficiaries, promoting preventative care. The conversation highlights the need for better awareness of physical therapy’s role in reducing healthcare costs and improving patient independence, as well as the future directions for advocacy within the profession.In this conversation, Nick and Andrew discuss the challenges faced by outpatient therapy providers, particularly in relation to Medicare payment models and outdated CPT codes. They emphasize the need for reform in the healthcare system to better support low-cost providers who deliver quality care. The discussion highlights the importance of collaboration among competitors in the healthcare industry and the role of therapists in advocating for change. They also explore the future of physical therapy, focusing on the need for therapists to claim their space in managing musculoskeletal disorders and demonstrating their cost-effectiveness to ensure sustainability in the industry.If you find our content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at https://lnkd.in/e_pGn4f8 and AJRsportsscience.com.Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode.#SAFEACT #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #sportsscience #orthopedics #atofmass #APTQI Cameron Roth OrthoArizona

“Athletic Trainers Advocating for Better Pay, Better Jobs and Professional Recognition” Episode 27 with Stephen Panteleakos, MS, LAT, ATC, a seasoned athletic trainer and the visionary behind Modern Movement Solutions. Their conversation delves into various aspects of the athletic training profession, providing listeners with a comprehensive view of its current state and future prospects.The episode explores the evolving landscape of athletic training, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges that professionals in the field face. Steve and Andrew discuss the importance of staying ahead of industry trends and the role of continuing education in ensuring that athletic trainers remain competitive and effective in their roles.If you find our content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com.Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode.#NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #sportsscience #orthopedics #atofmass #NWATA #Athletictrainingmonth

“The Future of Athletic Training”Tune into Episode 26 of The Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast on March 24th with Matthew Smitley, an athletic trainer and assistant professor at the University of Kentucky. He discusses the evolving landscape of athletic training, including the future of education, the importance of quality clinical experiences, the challenges of job vacancies, and the need for athletic trainers to effectively communicate their value to secure better compensation. The conversation highlights the significance of innovation and advocacy in the profession.In this conversation, Matthew Smitley and Andrew Rizza discuss the evolving role of athletic trainers, emphasizing the importance of recognition, dual credentialing, and advocacy within the profession. They explore the challenges faced by entry-level practitioners, the significance of effective communication in defining the role of athletic trainers, and the ongoing debate surrounding advanced degrees in athletic training. The discussion highlights the need for continuous education and the potential for athletic trainers to become key players in the healthcare system.If you find our content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform.Stay updated by following us on:Instagram – @behind_sports_med_podcast,X – @ajrsportssciWebsites – ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com.Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes.Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode.#NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom #universityofkentucky #universityofkentuckywildcats #universityofkentuckyathletics

“I’m Representing HONDURAS in the Olympics!”Episode 25 of Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast with Honduras Olympian, Julimar Avila (@july.c.avila).In this episode of the Behind the Sports Medicine podcast, Andrew Rizza interviews Julimar Avila, a semi-finalist at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games and a swimmer for Honduras. Julimar shares her journey from starting swimming at a young age to competing at the highest levels, including the challenges of balancing academics and athletics, the importance of support from coaches and family, and her experiences at the Olympics. She discusses the sacrifices made for her sport, the role of team dynamics, and the significance of mental and physical health in her training.In this conversation, Julimar Avila shares her journey as an Olympic swimmer, discussing the challenges of imposter syndrome, the evolution of her training from college to the Olympics, and the importance of dryland training and yoga. She reflects on the life lessons learned from competitive sports, the motivation provided by her family, and her growth and resilience throughout her career. Julimar also shares personal insights, including her unique name and love for reading, emphasizing the importance of balance in life.If you find our content engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform.Stay updated by following us on:Instagram – @behind_sports_med_podcast,X – @ajrsportssciWebsites – podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com.Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes.Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode.#NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom #Hondurasswimming #tokyoolympics #parisolympics #olympicswimming #BUswimming #redtideswimming