The Optimal Body
by Dr Jen Fraboni & Dr Dom Fraboni
Join top-40 Physical Therapy Influencer, Doc Jen, and her Physical Therapy husband Dr. Dom, as they bring you the body tips and PT Pearls you need to help you understand your body, relieve your pains and restrictions, and answer your questions. Along with expert guests, the goal of The Optimal Body is to help you discover what optimal means in your own body.
Episodes
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478 | Beyond Kegels: Building a Stronger Pelvic Floor for Running, Lifting & Everyday Life with Dr Caroline Packard
After pregnancy left marathon runner and Doctor of Physical Therapy Caroline Packard with persistent leakage and prolapse symptoms, standard Kegels didn’t get her back to running or lifting—so she built the pelvic-floor program she wished she’d had. In this episode, the doctor of physical therapy...
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477 | Adjustments, Ultrasound, Dry Needling, Breathwork: Addressing Overblown Medical Claims About Pain Treatments
A patient with fractures across his pelvis was writhing in pain—then breathing exercises helped him stand and lift his feet, pain-free in the moment. On this episode of The Optimal Body, Doc Jen and Dr Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, unpack what hands-on techniques can—and can’t—do, from...
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476 | Pelvic Floor Health in Exercise and Performance: Going Beyond Pregnancy and Postpartum with Dr Rachel Selman
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom welcome Dr. Rachel Selman, a physical therapist specializing in orthopedic sports medicine and pelvic health. Dr. Selman discusses her new book Floor It, which aims to make pelvic floor health accessible to athletes and the…
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475 | Controversy! Do Chiropractic Adjustments Really Realign the Spine?
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, doctors of physical therapy, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom address controversy sparked by a social media post where Doc Jen stated she doesn't seek chiropractic adjustments. They clarify that adjustments don't "realign the spine" or "put bones back into…
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474 | What interventions have the best evidence for down-regulating pain sensitivity (breath, sleep, graded exposure, strength, walking)
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, doctors of physical therapy Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore evidence-based strategies to reduce chronic pain sensitivity. They describe chronic pain sensitivity as a "volume knob" in the nervous system that can be turned down through five key...
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473 | Optimizing Food Choices for Better Nutrition, Energy, Focus, and Fat Loss with Thomas DeLauer
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom interview nutritionist Thomas DeLauer, who specializes in cognitive nutrition and performance. Thomas shares his journey from corporate healthcare to nutrition advocacy, emphasizing how nutrition and diet impact brain function…
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472 | Impact of Sarcopenia: The Muscle You Didn't Know You Were Losing
In this episode of the Optimal Body podcast, doctors of physical therapy, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength. They explain that while muscle mass peaks around age 25 and gradually declines, sarcopenia is not inevitable. Lifestyle factors…
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471 | Understanding Breast Implants Illness and Explant Considerations with Dr Robert Whitfield
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy Doc Jen and Doctor Dom sit down with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Whitfield, founder of the Sharpe Method. Dr. Whitfield shares his expertise on breast implant illness (BII), explaining how bacterial...
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470 | "The Truth Behind Aging: A research-backed talk for helping people stay mobile, strong, and active as they age."
In this empowering episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom tackle the realities of aging head-on with research-backed insights. They debunk common fears around MRI findings like disc bulges and osteoarthritis, explaining—using research-backed evidence—that many are normal...
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469 | The Importance of Walking on Foot & Overall Health with Dr. Courtney Conley
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, welcome back Doctor Courtney Conley to discuss her new book, Walk. Together, they explore why walking is considered the "sixth vital sign" and how gait speed can predict health issues like...
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468 | How Strength Training Protocols Improve Gait Outcome Measures in Older Adults - a research review
In this episode of the Optimal Body podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore the critical link between walking speed and overall health in older adults. They discuss research showing that resistance training can significantly improve gait parameters, emphasizing that...
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467 | Free Yourself From Technology Attachment And Rediscover Human Intelligence with Shannon Algeo
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, welcome back Shannon Algeo, psychotherapist and author of The Power in Your Hands. Shannon explores how smartphone and social media use mirrors insecure attachment patterns, introducing the...
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466 | Discussing Dr Dom's Pickleball Injury Causing Him Mid Foot Pain
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore foot pain and injury through Dom's personal experience with a Lisfranc ligament tear and two surgeries. Dom shares how a recent pickleball injury during a session triggered sharp midfoot pain, prompting him to self-assess...
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465 | Improve Your Running Form and Reduce Common Pain with Physical Therapist Vikash Sharma
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom welcome running expert Doctor of physical therapy Vikash Sharma to discuss how to run safely and effectively. They cover key topics like avoiding the "too much, too quickly" trap, using walk-run intervals for beginners, and...
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464 | Doc Jen Hurt Her Back Deadlifting! What She Did for Her Back Pain and Sciatic Pain
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doctor Dom shares her personal experience of sustaining a minor back injury and developing sciatic pain while deadlifting. She and Doc Jen discuss how even fitness professionals aren't immune to pain and injury, emphasizing that stress, poor sleep, and...
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463 | Navigating Peptides, GLP-1, and Weight Loss during Hormonal Shifts in Perimenopause with Dr Aleksandra Gajer
In this episode of the Optimal Body podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom sit down with Doctor Aleksandra Gajer, an expert in sustainable weight loss, longevity, and women's midlife health. Doctor Gajer discusses her journey from emergency medicine to a focus on proactive, preventative care. Key topics...
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462 | Flat Feet: Do They Cause Pain or Really Need “Fixing”? What the Latest Research Actually Says
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore foot health, focusing on flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and bunions. They explain the three types of flat feet and emphasize treating symptoms over appearance. The hosts highlight exercises targeting the posterior…
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461 | Real Talk about Balance Training and Fall Prevention with Physical Therapist Kelsey Bahr
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom welcome Dr. Kelsey Barr, a physical therapist specializing in chronic pain and fall prevention. Kelsey shares her journey from fitness to PT, inspired by working with elderly patients and those with Parkinson's disease. She...
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460 | Toe Spacers For Foot Pain? What Does The Research Say?
In this episode of the Optimal Body podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore the benefits of toe spacers for foot health. They discuss how these simple, affordable devices help counteract toe crowding caused by modern footwear, reducing pain and improving function.…
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459 | Recipe to Movement Longevity | Staying Strong & Mobile As We Age with Physiotherapist, Will Harlow
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, welcome physiotherapist Will Harlow, who specializes in helping people over 50 maintain independence and achieve movement longevity. Will shares his journey from sports physiotherapy to focusing...
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458 | Hernias Explained: Understanding the Treatment Options for Inguinal, Umbilical, and Sports Hernias
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, doctors of physical therapy, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, discuss hernias, explaining what they are, their types, causes, and treatment options. They differentiate hernias from conditions like diastasis recti and prolapse, emphasizing that hernias involve a...
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457 | Nitric Oxide: The Molecule of Life for Health, Aging & Longevity with Dr. Nathan Bryan
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy welcome Doctor Nathan Bryan, an expert in nitric oxide biochemistry. Doctor Bryan explains how nitric oxide, a short-lived signaling molecule, is essential for cardiovascular health, brain...
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456 | The Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause: Why Your Joints and Tendons Suddenly Feel 10 Years Older
In this episode of the Optimal Body podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, explore the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause, a cluster of symptoms including joint pain, stiffness, frozen shoulder, and muscle loss affecting women aged 40–60. They explain how declining...
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455 | The Recipe to Relieve Chronic Pain with Dr Rachel Zoffness
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, doctors of physical therapy Doc Jen and Doctor Dom welcome pain scientist Dr. Rachel Zoffness to discuss the complexities of pain, especially how to relieve chronic pain, from a biopsychosocial perspective. Dr. Rachel explains that pain is influenced…
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454 | Why Heel Pain Isn’t Just a Foot Problem: What New Research Reveals About Plantar Fasciitis
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom explore chronic plantar fasciitis, highlighting new 2025 research that reveals its connection to central sensitization—where the nervous system amplifies pain. They explain why traditional treatments for plantar fasciitis may not…
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453 | GLP-1 Benefits: The Facts and Myths for Obesity, Weight Loss, and Beyond with Dr Spencer Nadolsky
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, interview Dr. Spencer Nadolsky, an MD and expert in obesity medicine. They discuss the science behind GLP-1 receptor agonists, highlighting GLP-1 benefits for weight loss, diabetes, and...
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452 | Pinched Nerve In Your Neck? Discussing Cervical Radiculopathy Pain and Rehab
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, break down cervical radiculopathy—commonly referred to as a “pinched nerve” in the neck. They explain the symptoms and causes of a pinched nerve, and discuss why imaging findings aren’t always...
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451 | How Can A.I. Help Train My Brain and Create Healthy Habits as I Age with Thoryn Stephens
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, Doctor's of Physical Therapy, welcome Thoryn Stephens, a scientist and founder of Brain One, to discuss optimizing brain health and human performance. Thoryn shares insights on hydration, micro habits, and the role of wearables...
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450 | Foot Pain & Inflammation: Could It Be Sesamoiditis?
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, physical therapists Doc Jen and Doctor Dom delve into sesamoiditis, an overuse injury that leads to pain in the sesamoid bones beneath the big toe. They discuss the risk factors and symptoms associated with sesamoiditis, highlighting the importance of…
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449 | Midlife Hormone Health: Cutting Through the Noise on Hormone Replacement Therapy, Pain & GLP-1's with Jennifer Gularson
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy, welcome Jennifer Gularson, a leading expert in women’s midlife health and functional medicine. Together, they discuss hormone replacement therapy, GLP-1 medications, and the challenges…
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448 | Keys to Consistency in Exercise and Movement: Just Press Play
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, discuss the challenges of creating habits around consistent exercise routines, especially as motivation fades after New Year’s resolutions. They emphasize starting small, using accountability, and...
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447 | Getting To The Real Causes of Fertility Struggles with Gabriela Rosa
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy Doc Jen and Dr. Dom interview Gabriela Rosa, a Harvard-awarded fertility specialist and founder of the Rosa Institute. Gabriela shares her journey into fertility work, the development of her evidence-based Fertile Method…
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446 | IT Band Syndrome: Why Does My Hip Hurt?
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, focus on body tips strategies for IT Band Syndrome and IT band pain at the hip—a less recognized but significant issue. They explain why traditional stretching and rolling are ineffective,...
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445 | Improving Your Functional Vision In a World Of Screens with Dr. Bryce Appelbaum
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Dr. Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy, interview neuro optometrist Dr. Bryce Appelbaum about the crucial difference between eyesight and functional vision. They discuss how functional vision is a brain-based process that impacts…
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444 | Latest Research on the Best Stretching Exercises: Implications on Pain, Mobility, and Strength
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, break down a new international consensus on stretching, helping listeners discover the best stretching practices for their needs. They explain the differences between static, dynamic, ballistic…
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443 | Updated Research Recommendations on Pregnancy Exercise with Dr. Margie Davenport
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts and Doctors of Physical Therapy Doc Jen and Dr. Dom welcome Dr. Margie Davenport, an exercise physiologist and leading expert on pregnancy and postpartum physical activity. Together, they discuss the latest research and Canadian guidelines on…
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442 | What is Jen Health? Your Pathway to Pain-Free, Confident Movement
In this first 2026 episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, doctors of physical therapy Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom discuss Jen Health, Dr. Jen’s platform for sustainable health and pain management. They explore how pain is multifactorial, debunk common movement myths, and emphasize empowerment through...
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441 | Understanding How to Train Pain Free For Life with Dr. John Rusin
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom interview Dr. John Rusin, a renowned strength coach and physical therapist. Dr. John Rusin shares his journey from coaching to physical therapy and back, emphasizing a pain-free, health-first approach to training. He discusses...
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440 | Want to Grow Your Glutes? Best Exercise Based on Latest Research
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy, discuss the best exercises for strength and growth of the glutes, focusing on recent research comparing EMG muscle activation with actual peak muscle force. They explain why force production is…
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439 | Training Your Brain to Improve Sleep, Reduce Pain & Maximize Performance with Neuroscientist, Ariel Garten
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy chat with neuroscientist Ariel Garten, co-founder of Muse. Together, they explore how brainwave-sensing technology can make meditation more effective, support stress reduction, and improve sleep...
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438 | The Impact of Deep Squats on Our Knee Health: Good or Bad for Knee Pain?
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom debunk the myth that deep squats are harmful to the knees and discuss their impact on knee health. They trace the misconception to outdated research and review recent studies showing deep squats are...
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437 | Realistic, Evidence-Based Skincare Health with holistic dermatologist, Dr. Mary Alice Mina
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Dr. Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, sit down with Dr. Mary Alice Mina, a Harvard-trained dermatologist and host of The Skin Real Podcast. Dr. Mina shares her holistic perspective on skincare health, emphasizing how lifestyle factors...
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436 | Newest Research on Chronic Low Back Pain: What Actually Works?
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, Doctors of Physical Therapy, delve into the complexities of chronic low back pain. They discuss the latest research on both acute and chronic low back pain, emphasizing the need for individualized treatment plans. The hosts…
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435 | Nutrition & Women's Health Hacks to Support Midlife & Beyond with Liz Plosser
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy Doc Jen and Doctor Dom welcome wellness expert Liz Plosser to discuss practical strategies for health at every stage of life. They explore topics like nutrition, strength training, hydration, and how to make healthy choices...
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434 | Myofascial Trains: Hype vs Evidence
In this Optimal Body Podcast episode, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy, explore the science and clinical relevance of myofascial trains—continuous myofascial networks in the body. They discuss fascia’s anatomy, its role in movement and pain, and the impact of manual therapies...
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433 | Heal Adult Acne & Understand the Skincare Products That Actually Work with Danielle Gronich
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy, interview Danielle Greenwich, clinical esthetician and CEO of Clear Stem. Danielle shares her personal journey with cystic acne and discusses the root causes of acne beyond traditional…
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432 | SI Joint Clicking, Popping or Causing Pain? Especially in Pregnancy & Postpartum?
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy, discuss the sacroiliac joint (SI Joint), addressing common concerns about clicking, popping, and pain—especially during pregnancy and postpartum. They explain the anatomy, debunk myths about SI…
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431 | Using Neuroplastic Recovery for Chronic Pain & Illness with Dr. David Clarke
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, co-hosts Doc Jen and Dr. Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, are joined by Dr. David Clark to explore the origins and treatment of chronic neuroplastic pain. They discuss how stress, early life experiences, and emotional factors can reshape brain...
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430 | Forward Head Posture: Is Your Straight Cervical Spine The Reason For Pain?
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom—both doctors of physical therapy—address widespread myths and misconceptions surrounding neck pain and posture. They delve into the natural variation in cervical spine curvature, explaining that straightened neck curves and...
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429 | Optimizing Fertility & Hormones for Women's Health with Dr. Natalie Crawford
In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom are joined by fertility expert Dr. Natalie Crawford. They dive into a thorough discussion on women's health, focusing on fertility, menstrual health, and preparing for pregnancy. Dr. Crawford explains the menstrual cycle, addresses...
About this show
Join top-40 Physical Therapy Influencer, Doc Jen, and her Physical Therapy husband Dr. Dom, as they bring you the body tips and PT Pearls you need to help you understand your body, relieve your pains and restrictions, and answer your questions. Along with expert guests, the goal of The Optimal Body is to help you discover what optimal means in your own body.
Hosted by
Dr Jen Fraboni & Dr Dom Fraboni