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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, Joe LaVacca discusses the complexities of pain management, particularly focusing on the role of injections, especially corticosteroids. 

He emphasizes the importance of understanding pain as a system that involves various interacting parts and the need for a holistic approach to treatment. 

The conversation covers the potential benefits and risks of corticosteroid injections, the distinction between short-term relief and long-term solutions, and the significance of lifestyle factors in managing pain effectively.

Takeaways

• Injections may provide short-term relief but not long-term solutions.
• Understanding pain as a system is crucial for effective management.
• Corticosteroid injections can lead to degeneration of tissues.
• Lifestyle factors like weight management and sleep are vital in pain management.
• Consulting with healthcare providers is essential before opting for injections.
• Pain management should consider both physical and emotional aspects.
• Injections should be used sparingly and with caution.
• Not all pain is due to inflammation; proper diagnosis is key.
• Patient education is critical in making informed decisions about treatment.
• Holistic approaches often yield better long-term outcomes.

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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, hosts Joe Gambino and Joe LaVacca discuss the relevance of the big three strength exercises: squat, deadlift, and bench press. 

They explore whether these exercises are necessary for everyone, the importance of functional movements in daily life, and the need for movement variability. 

The conversation emphasizes that while the big three can be beneficial, there are numerous alternatives that can achieve similar strength and functional outcomes. 

The hosts encourage listeners to find what works best for their bodies and goals, highlighting the importance of personalization in fitness routines.

Takeaways

• You don't need to squat, deadlift, or bench press to be strong.
• Functional movements are essential for daily life activities.
• Strength training should focus on individual goals and needs.
• There are many alternatives to the big three exercises.
• Movement variability is crucial for overall fitness and injury prevention.
• Personalization in exercise is key to success.
• The back squat is not a natural movement for everyone.
• Powerlifting is a sport, not a requirement for fitness.
• Exploring different movement patterns can enhance performance.
• Finding comfort in movement is more important than perfect form.

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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, hosts Joe Gambino and Joe LaVacca discuss the complexities of muscle activation, particularly in the context of pain and rehabilitation. 

They explore how pain can inhibit muscle function, the importance of understanding the underlying causes of activation issues, and the role of mobility and loading in recovery. 

The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion and realistic expectations during the rehabilitation process, highlighting that changes in muscle activation may take time and patience.

Takeaways

• Muscle activation can be inhibited by pain.
• Pain serves as a protective mechanism, altering muscle output.
• Rehabilitation should focus on re-educating muscles and restoring function.
• Mobility and loading are crucial for effective muscle activation.
• Compassion and realistic expectations are essential in recovery.
• Activation issues are common in the acute phase of injury.
• Specific warm-ups can enhance confidence and performance.
• Longer duration isometrics can help build awareness in the brain.
• Understanding the body's movement patterns is key to recovery.
• Patience is necessary for lasting changes in muscle activation.

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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, Joe LaVacca discusses the common misconception that poor core stability is the primary cause of low back pain. 

He emphasizes the need to shift the focus from merely strengthening the core to building confidence and flexibility in movement. Joe explores how traditional approaches to core stability may not effectively address pain management and highlights the importance of adapting movement strategies to promote recovery. 

The conversation encourages listeners to rethink their understanding of core stability and its role in overall spine health and pain management.

Takeaways

• Poor core stability is often blamed for low back pain.
• Bracing the core may provide short-term relief but isn't a long-term solution.
• Building confidence in movement is crucial for recovery.
• The spine is adaptable and should not be viewed as fragile.
• Core strength does not directly correlate with pain reduction.
• Movement should be prioritized over static core exercises.
• Pain is not always indicative of tissue damage.
• Strengthening the core should be integrated with overall body movement.
• It's important to teach patients how to move safely without over-bracing.
• The ultimate goal is to enhance movement capacity and flexibility.

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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, hosts Joe Gambino and Joe LaVacca discuss the importance of setting realistic expectations in physical therapy. 

They explore how social media influences patient perceptions, the significance of long-term goals, and the need for clear communication between therapists and patients. 

The conversation emphasizes that rehabilitation is a journey that requires time, consistency, and a collaborative approach to achieve successful outcomes.


Takeaways

• Setting realistic expectations is crucial for patient success.
• Social media can create unrealistic expectations for quick fixes.
• Pain management is a subjective experience that varies for each individual.
• Long-term goals are essential for sustained progress in rehabilitation.
• Clear communication between therapists and patients enhances the treatment process.
• Patients should not rely solely on pain as an outcome measure.
• Therapists need to educate patients about the rehabilitation timeline.
• A collaborative approach fosters better patient engagement and commitment.
• Understanding the journey of rehabilitation helps in managing expectations.
• Therapists should guide patients through the ups and downs of recovery.

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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, hosts Joe Gambino and Joe LaVacca delve into the complex nature of pain, emphasizing the mind-body connection and the importance of compassionate communication in healthcare. 

They discuss how pain is often misunderstood as being 'all in your head' and explore the implications of this perspective on patient care. The conversation highlights the significance of listening to patients, understanding their experiences, and providing them with options to empower their healing process. 

Through a compassionate approach, the hosts aim to restore hope and clarity for those struggling with chronic pain.

Takeaways

• Pain is a perception and an emotion.
• The words we use in healthcare have a significant impact.
• Compassion is essential in managing pain effectively.
• Pain can be both in the mind and the body.
• Listening to patients is crucial for effective treatment.
• There are often unseen pathways to pain that imaging cannot detect.
• Empowering patients with options can restore hope.
• Pain sensitivity can increase over time due to prolonged stress.
• It's important to educate patients about their pain responses.
• Healthcare providers should avoid disempowering language. 

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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, hosts Joe Gambino and Joe LaVacca discuss the importance of heavy lifting and strength training in fitness. They address common concerns from clients about the safety of lifting heavy weights and emphasize that strength training is essential for overall health and longevity. 

The conversation explores how to challenge oneself in fitness, the relationship between pain and progress, and the importance of finding a personal path in exercise. 

The hosts encourage listeners to embrace the hard work of lifting and to focus on their individual goals.

Takeaways

• If you can lift heavy and do it safely, do it.
• Training in the gym should carry over to real life.
• Strength training is essential for health and longevity.
• Challenging yourself is key to making progress.
• Pain shouldn't deter you from lifting heavy.
• Lifting weights is one of the safest forms of exercise.
• You need to find what works for you in fitness.
• Don't let past injuries dictate your current training.
• Consistency and stimulus are crucial for strength gains.
• Always aim to push your limits in a safe manner.

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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, hosts Joe Gambino and Joe LaVacca delve into the complexities of flare-ups and the psychological barriers that can hinder recovery, such as kinesiophobia. 

They discuss the importance of managing expectations during pain and recovery, building confidence in movement, and practical strategies for navigating flare-ups. 

The conversation emphasizes the need to view pain as information that can guide recovery rather than something to fear, encouraging listeners to keep moving forward and break the cycle of pain.

Takeaways

• Flare-ups can create a fear of movement, known as kinesiophobia.
• Managing expectations is crucial for recovery from pain.
• Pain should be viewed as information, not something to fear.
• Building confidence in movement is essential for recovery.
• It's important to keep moving forward despite pain.
• Taking a break from certain activities can aid recovery.
• Using pain as a guide can help in making recovery decisions.
• Expect some pain during recovery, but don't let it stop you.
• Practical strategies can help navigate flare-ups effectively.
• Confidence in movement can improve quality of life.

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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, hosts Joe Gambino and Joe LaVacca welcome physical therapist Steph Allen, founder of ACL Resolve. They discuss the intricacies of ACL rehabilitation, the importance of specialized care, and the shift towards virtual rehabilitation. 

Steph shares her journey into ACL care, the psychological aspects of recovery, and common pitfalls patients face. The conversation also touches on the significance of measuring outcomes, the role of comparison in recovery, and the importance of endurance testing. 

Listeners gain insights into the rehabilitation process and resources available for those recovering from ACL injuries.

Takeaways

• Steph Allen has over a decade of experience in physical therapy, focusing on ACL rehabilitation.
• The insurance model often limits the care patients receive, especially in ACL recovery.
• Virtual rehabilitation can enhance accountability and patient engagement.
• Psychological factors, such as fear and confidence, play a crucial role in recovery.
• Comparison to others can negatively impact a patient's recovery journey.
• Early stages of rehabilitation focus on reducing swelling and improving quad activation.
• Monitoring pain and swelling is essential to adjust rehabilitation plans.
• Return to running should be approached cautiously, with emphasis on strength and symmetry.
• Endurance testing can provide valuable insights into a patient's readiness for sports.
• The rehabilitation process is collaborative, requiring communication between therapist and patient.

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• Joe Gambino
• Joe LaVacca

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Watch on YouTube here.

Summary

In this episode of the Beyond Pain podcast, hosts Joe Gambino and Joe LaVacca discuss the evolution of assessment processes in physical therapy, emphasizing the importance of understanding chronic pain, the role of touch, and the significance of movement in rehabilitation. 

They explore the SFMA framework, the necessity of context in assessments, and the value of self-assessments for clients. 

The conversation highlights the need for a goals-driven approach to therapy, ensuring that assessments serve the individual's specific needs and objectives.

Takeaways

• Assessment processes have become simpler over time.
• Chronic pain is complex and requires nuanced understanding.
• Touch plays a vital role in client connection and assessment.
• Movement buy-in is essential for effective rehabilitation.
• Assessments should rule out red flags before proceeding.
• The SFMA provides a framework for holistic assessments.
• Self-assessments empower clients to understand their bodies.
• Context is crucial in interpreting assessment results.
• Goals should drive the assessment and treatment process.
• The body learns and adapts through consistent movement.