In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, co-hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, answer listener questions on physical therapy, body mechanics, and pain management. They debunk myths about bunions, joint alignment, and hip pain, emphasizing the importance of strength, mobility, and proper footwear. Doc Jen highlights the benefits of barefoot shoes for foot health, while Doctor Dom clarifies misconceptions about the sacroiliac joint. They also discuss pain sensitization and the complexities of hip issues, advocating for a holistic approach to understanding and treating pain.

VivoBarefoot Discount:

We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing ⁠VivoBareoot shoes⁠ to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your ⁠VivoBarefoot Shoes⁠!

There's a bonus promo going on until May 15th! You can get a special 25% off using code TOB25 at checkout. This code works on all shoes that are not discounted and doesn't work on the Senus Slide, Senus Yin, and  Gobi Sneaker.

**Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.

LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!

Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Your Free Gift!

Jen Health Annual Membership Discount:

Don’t miss out! We are having a massive discount on our Annual Membership on Jen Health! As our podcast listener, you’ll get the best discount of all using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout! If you’ve been considering getting started on one of our 12 Therapy Plans, now is the time! You’ll get over a 50% discount when you use OPTIMAL10 to start your free trial of the Annual Membership. Come move with us!

We think you’ll love:

• Jen Health Monthly Discount
• Barefoot Mini Course
• Jen’s Instagram
• Dom’s Instagram
• YouTube Channel

Head to this link for full show notes and resources: https://jen.health/podcast/406

What You'll Learn: 

3:22 Addressing misconceptions about joint alignment, particularly regarding the acromioclavicular (AC) joint.

4:39 Discussing how pain is often due to sensitization rather than actual misalignment of joints.

7:36 Explaining how manipulative techniques provide temporary relief through neurological responses, not realignment.

9:29 Strategies for reducing pain through improved mobility and understanding core coordination.

11:50 Exploring ilio psoas bursitis, its causes, and the importance of assessing mobility versus strength.

13:51 Understanding the intricate movements of the hip joint and their connection to core stability.

15:53 Discussion on how mobility routines can cause soreness for those who are not used to activity.

17:33 Body Guarding and Pain Sensitization

20:32 Overview of a foot and ankle plan included in the membership to address restrictions and plantar fasciitis.