In this episode, Dr. Ryan Peebles, Doctor of Physical Therapy and founder of Core Balance Training, explores the mind–body connection in back pain and addresses a common question from students, “How emotional and psychological factors interact with physical causes of pain.” Drawing from clinical experience, student questions, and influential ideas such as Dr. John Sarno’s work, Ryan explains why back pain is rarely only physical or only emotional and why a combined, holistic approach leads to better long-term outcomes.

This episode covers:

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Disclaimer: All content is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any exercise or rehabilitation program.

Episode Chapters:

00:00:00 – Introduction: The mind–body connection in back pain
00:02:10 – A student’s question that sparked this discussion
00:04:15 – Dr. John Sarno’s theory: emotional causes of back pain
00:07:00 – How stress and tension create real physical pain
00:10:10 – Do emotional and physical causes overlap?
00:15:20 – The perfect bridge pose & the mattress you use
00:18:15 – Activating core muscles
00:22:50 – Back anchor progression and Breathing in core control
00:25:00 – Student Q&A: Doing a typewriter squat
00:28:40 – Student Q&A: Will CBT help with back pain symptoms?
00:32:50 – Having the right posture for exercises
00:36:15 – Student Q&A: How to walk uphill
00:37:45 – Connecting better with body and body imbalances
00:41:50 – Front anchors and Push away explained
00:48:30 – Final thoughts: awareness, and mind-body connection