Emma Brockwell is a pelvic health physiotherapist who has worked with top football clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Southampton. She is:

In this episode of Women's Football Hub, host Carolyn Kent sits down with Lola Arribas Rodriguez, a technical support trainer at the Football Association (FA) in England and a passionate coach working with youth and visually impaired athletes.

The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

In this episode, Carolyn Kent and Suzanne Carney dive deep into the complex world of breast anatomy, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and the challenges female athletes face during and after pregnancy. The discussion covers everything from breast physiology to postpartum recovery and mental health.

Breast Anatomy and Physiology (00:00:38)

Breast Support for Athletes (00:03:11)

Postpartum Physiotherapy Approach (00:09:26)

Return to Sport After Pregnancy (00:15:40)

Postnatal Mental Health (00:18:58)

"Having a baby is not a death sentence to your sporting career."

In this insightful episode of Women’s Football Hub, host Carolyn Kent interviews Phil Woodbridge about his groundbreaking PhD research on nutrition’s role in injury prevention and rehabilitation for recreational women’s football players.

Host Sarah Thorne talks to Gráinne Donnelly the editor of the POGP about her PhD research on compression garments and their potential use for the management of pelvic floor issues. 

This podcast episode explores pelvic health in female athletes, with a specific focus on compression garments as a potential management tool for pelvic floor dysfunction. Gráinne Donnelly shares her research insights, emphasising that pelvic floor issues are common but not normal, and can affect athletes of all levels and ages. The discussion highlights the importance of breaking down stigmas, increasing awareness, and providing supportive solutions for women experiencing pelvic floor challenges in sports. The conversation underscores the need for comprehensive, collaborative approaches to pelvic health that consider both physical and psychological aspects of athletic performance.

Chapters:

1. Introduction and Guest Introduction (00:00:08) - Sarah Thorne introduces herself as a new host and welcomes Gráinne Donnelly, a renowned pelvic health physiotherapist. The introduction highlights Gráinne's extensive experience and expertise in pelvic health.

Sports Science Series: Esther Goldsmith - The Menstrual Cycle

In this episode, host Carolyn Kent interviews Angela Kenneally, who is a sport and exercise medicine specialist Physiotherapist and the current lead physiotherapist for the Football Association of Ireland. Kenneally also specialises in pelvic health.

Key Topics Discussed:

- Kenneally's background and path to becoming the lead physiotherapist for the Irish women's national team (00:01:51 - 00:03:24)

Key References and Resources Mentioned:

- UEFA statistic: 63% of 12-19 year old female football players experience pelvic floor dysfunction (00:13:21)

Meet the team series: Sarah Thorne on Types of Incontinence and Holistic Treatment

In this episode, host Carolyn Kent sits down with chartered physiotherapist, sports rehabilitator, personal trainer, and pelvic health specialist Sarah Thorne. Sarah shares her extensive background in sports medicine and her passion for advocating for women's health, especially in the realm of pelvic floor dysfunction and incontinence.

Key Topics Discussed

Sarah's journey to becoming a physiotherapist and her experience working in elite football (00:02:19)

The different types of incontinence (stress, urgency, overactive bladder) and how to identify them (00:07:50)

The impact of caffeine and hydration on bladder health (00:13:48)

Strategies for physiotherapists working with female athletes on pelvic floor rehabilitation (00:16:00)

The importance of a holistic, 360-degree approach to pelvic health (00:21:24) Whether pelvic health physios need to be trained in strength and conditioning (00:23:38)

Where to Find Sarah Thorne

Instagram: @sarahthornehealth

LinkedIn: Sarah Thorne 

Key References & Resources

Integrated Systems Model

Active Pregnancy Foundation

Sports Science Series - Colm Smith Liverpool FC

In this episode, host Dr. Megan Lowery interviews Colm Smith, the Physical Performance Coach for Liverpool. Colm discusses his background in coaching various sports, his current role with Liverpool, and the day-to-day responsibilities of a performance coach working with elite female athletes.

Key Topics Discussed

Colm's coaching background and journey into football (00:00:36)

His current role as Physical Performance Coach for Liverpool Women (00:00:45) Typical daily responsibilities and weekly training schedule (00:05:46)

Monitoring player wellness, menstrual cycles, and recovery (00:07:24) Individualizing training and recovery for each player (00:12:27)

Differences in recovery strategies for male vs. female athletes (00:17:52) Importance of building relationships and trust with players (00:14:47)

Advice for aspiring performance coaches (00:23:29)

Where to Find Colm Smith

X: @ColmSmith13

LinkedIn: Colm Smith

Key References

Menstrual cycle tracking and management

FIFA Pro research on female athlete health

Importance of coach-athlete relationships

Transitioning from male to female athlete coaching

Challenges of player recovery and fatigue management