The Motion Lab Podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Motion Lab, host Chuck Dowell, PA-C sits down with orthopedic sports medicine specialist Dr. Jamie Friedman to unpack one of the most important advancements in joint preservation: cartilage restoration.If you’ve been told your knee pain is “wear and tear,” or that a joint replacement may be in your future, this conversation offers a different perspective. Cartilage damage doesn’t heal on its own but new techniques are changing what’s possible.Together, they break down:    •    What cartilage actually does and why it’s so difficult to repair    •    What happens when it’s damaged, whether from injury or long-term degeneration    •    The full spectrum of treatment options, from early intervention to advanced restoration procedures    •    Dr. Friedman also explains:    •    Who is a candidate for cartilage restoration and who isn’t    •    The difference between short-term symptom relief and structural repair    •    How procedures like MACI and osteochondral grafting are helping patients stay active and delay or avoid knee replacement    •    What’s on the horizon, including innovations like full patella resurfacingYou’ll also get a realistic look at recovery timelines, outcomes, and what it actually takes to return to running, sports, and an active lifestyle.To close the episode, Dr. Friedman highlights the upcoming PERRY Initiative event, a free, hands-on experience for girls in grades 9–12 interested in orthopedics and engineering. The event will take place at the Arthrex Learning Center in Colorado Springs on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Learn more and apply here: https://perryinitiative.org/event/perry-outreach-program-colorado-springs-co/Whether you’re dealing with knee pain, exploring your options, or referring patients for advanced care, this episode offers a clear, practical look at how cartilage restoration is reshaping the future of orthopedics.Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan Mail Muscle-sparing knee replacement is gaining attention—but how much of the “Jiffy Knee” trend is grounded in reality?In this episode, we break down one of the most talked-about advancements in orthopaedic surgery: muscle-sparing (sub-vastus) knee replacement. As more patients seek faster recovery and less post-operative pain, new techniques are being marketed aggressively—but not all claims tell the full story.Joined by fellowship-trained joint replacement specialist Dr. Alex Forester, we unpack:    •    What muscle-sparing knee replacement actually involves    •    How it compares to traditional knee replacement approaches    •    The origins and marketing behind the “Jiffy Knee” trend    •    Whether this technique truly delivers faster recovery and less pain    •    Key factors patients should consider before choosing a surgical approachWith joint replacements on the rise nationwide, understanding your options has never been more important. This conversation provides a clear, clinically grounded perspective to help patients cut through the noise and make informed decisions.Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Motion Lab, PA Chuck Dowell sits down with orthopedic surgeons to break down the most common ski and snowboard injuries seen in Colorado clinics. They dive into why skiers tend to experience lower-body injuries while snowboarders see more upper-body trauma, how experience level and terrain play a role, and what actually increases your risk on the slopes.The conversation also covers when to seek medical care, how to safely return to skiing after surgery or injury, and practical tips for prevention—from strength training and fatigue management to proper equipment setup. Whether you’re a weekend skier or hitting the mountain all season, this episode gives you real-world insights to stay safe and perform your best. Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Motion Lab, host Chuck Dowell, PA-C, is joined by Dr. Van Manen to explore how nutrition affects outcomes in joint replacement surgery. From managing blood sugar to increasing protein intake and debunking diet myths, they share practical advice for patients preparing for surgery.Topics include:Importance of pre-surgical nutrition planningHow diabetes and glucose control impact healingWhat to eat (and avoid) before and after surgerySupplements, hydration, and recovery essentialsThe behavioral side of lifestyle changeWhether you’re a patient, caregiver, or just curious about optimizing recovery, this episode offers expert tips you can trust.Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailWelcome to The Motion Lab Podcast presented by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group. In this episode, Chuck Dowell, PA-C and Express Care provider, breaks down everything you need to know about our unique orthopedic Express Care clinic.Whether you’ve suffered a weekend sports injury, are experiencing ongoing joint pain, or just need a more convenient alternative to the ER, Express Care is designed to provide fast, expert orthopedic evaluation and treatment. Chuck explains the difference between acute and chronic orthopedic issues, what to expect when you walk in, how imaging and referrals are handled, and why this walk-in clinic offers a streamlined path to recovery without the long wait.We also dive into common cases seen during the summer, from monkey bar mishaps to pickleball injuries, and clear up common questions like “Do I need an MRI?” or “When should I see a specialist?”If you’re in Colorado Springs and dealing with a musculoskeletal injury, this episode is your guide to getting the right care at the right time.Learn more about Express Care and Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group at:https://www.csog.netBrought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Motion Lab Podcast, host Chuck Dowell sits down with Dr. Jamie Friedman, board-certified orthopedic surgeon at CSOG, to explore the critical but often overlooked connection between nutrition and orthopedic health.They dive into how poor nutrition can delay injury recovery, contribute to stress fractures, and impact athletic performance, especially in young athletes. From understanding RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport) and the athlete triad, to discussing calorie needs, macronutrient balance, and the risks of overtraining, this episode offers practical insights for athletes, parents, and healthcare providers alike.Whether you're a competitive athlete or a weekend warrior, this conversation highlights why fueling your body properly isn't optional. It's essential to staying in the game.Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Motion Lab Podcast, Chuck Dowell (PA at Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group) sits down with Dr. Craig Yager (sports medicine fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon) to break down everything you need to know about ACL injuries.We discuss the real causes behind ACL tears, from skiing accidents to everyday movements, the risk factors that make you more vulnerable, and the latest techniques for surgical reconstruction. Dr. Yager also shares expert insights on recovery timelines, strength-building during rehab, and how mental resilience plays a huge role in getting back to peak performance.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ What the ACL is and why it's important✅ Why ACL tears happen in both athletes and non-athletes✅ Common symptoms and how ACL injuries are diagnosed✅ Whether surgery is necessary — and who might avoid it✅ New advancements in ACL reconstruction surgery✅ How to recover, rebuild strength, and return to sports✅ The mental side of recovery after an ACL tear✅ Tips to prevent ACL injuries before they happenIf you or someone you know is dealing with a knee injury, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧📞 Need to schedule an appointment?✅ Visit https://www.csog.net✅ Or walk into CSOG Express Care for fast evaluation and treatment.🔥 Follow Us:FacebookInstagramYouTubeLinkedIn🎧 Subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes on orthopedic health, sports injury prevention, and recovery!Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Motion Lab, Physician Assistant Chuck Dowell sits down with youth fitness coach Laura Rennie to explore the critical role of movement in childhood development. From the physical and neurological benefits of early activity to the dangers of early sports specialization, they unpack why diverse, playful movement is key to long-term athletic ability and injury prevention. They also touch on the importance of fun, proper coaching, and teaching kids to listen to their bodies—laying the foundation not just for future athletes, but for lifelong health and wellness. Whether you're a parent, coach, or just curious about youth athletics, this conversation is packed with insight.Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Motion Lab, Chuck Dowell, PA-C, talks with Dr. Alex Forrester about one of the most common concerns among patients with arthritis: “Can I still stay active?”They dive into how to manage arthritis without giving up the activities you love — from pickleball and hiking to everyday movement. Dr. Forrester shares expert insight on low-impact modifications, pain management, and how treatments like bracing, injections, and even joint replacements can help patients maintain an active lifestyle.Whether you’re newly diagnosed or managing long-term symptoms, this episode is packed with real-world advice on moving well with arthritis — not just living with it.Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Motion Lab, we’re tackling a common misconception: that rest is best when it comes to arthritis. Spoiler alert—it’s not! Join us as we explore the science and stories behind why movement is one of the most powerful tools for managing arthritis pain and stiffness. We’ll break down how gentle exercise, stretching, and mobility work can improve joint function, reduce inflammation, and help you feel more in control of your bodyBrought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Motion Lab, Chuck and Darin dive into what injury prevention techniques could be used to prepare for the cycling season, practical tips for better bike fitment, and how it affects your body.  Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0

Send us Fan MailIn our premiere episode of The Motion Lab, Chuck and Darin discuss how to prepare yourself for a day of skiing/snowboarding. Emphasizing proper preparation, and tips to better avoid injuries. ===Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0Brought to you by Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group: https://hubs.la/Q037bNTq0