Welcome back to Interdisciplinary Case: Miles, where real runner stories meet clinical expertise. In Episode 8, Dr. Sara Raiser (MD), sports dietitian Kelsey Pontius, and physical therapist Dr. Kate Mihevc Edwards (PT) team up to break down a complex case: a mid-30s female roadrunner and backpacker navigating persistent butt pain, posterior leg symptoms, and unexpected GI challenges. This episode uncovers why seemingly simple running injuries often have not-so-simple causes and why a whole-body, interdisciplinary lens matters.

In this case study, we explore:

• Buttock and posterior thigh pain, what “sciatica” really means, why it’s often misdiagnosed, and how nerves, joints, tendons, and biomechanics interact
• The nervous system connection how an injury high up (like the hip or butt) can contribute to issues farther down the chain, including the Achilles
• The hidden role of nutrition & gut health, IBS, GI testing, microbiome insights, nutrient absorption, and how underfueling impacts nerve healing and recovery
• Breathing, stress & recovery why parasympathetic activation, rest, and mindful eating support both performance and injury resolution
• Clinical decision-making differential diagnoses, red flags, when imaging is needed, and how PT, nutrition, and sports medicine intersect
• Real-life biomechanics like hiking with a backpack, running form, posture, core engagement, nerve mobility, and how everyday habits amplify or relieve symptoms

This episode takes a comprehensive look at the messy, interconnected reality of running injuries where gut function influences glute activation, posture affects nerve mobility, and stress and recovery can make or break healing. Whether you’re a runner, clinician, or coach, you’ll walk away with: A clearer understanding of butt and posterior leg pain Practical insights on GI issues, fueling, and stress management A roadmap for thinking holistically about athlete health

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/interdisciplinary-case-miles--6623567/support.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow and subscribe so you never miss a case.

Have a question or a case you'd like us to explore on the show? We’d love to hear from you. Reach out anytime at [email protected].