The Soft Tissue OT Podcast

Ep. 30 Facet Joint Low Back Pain: What It Is, Why It Happens & How to Rebuild Your Back

Facet joint low back pain is common, but it is often poorly understood and easily oversimplified. In this episode, we explain what the lumbar facet joints actually do, how they can become sensitive, and why repeated extension and compression can be a common aggravating factor. We also discuss how previous disc changes may alter the way load is shared through the spine and potentially increase the demand placed on the facet joints. From there, we cover the common signs of facet-dominant back pain, including: Localised or one-sided low back pain Pain aggravated by standing, walking or arching backwards Symptoms that tend to ease with sitting, flexion or unloading Mechanical symptoms that change predictably with movement and posture We also explore why MRI findings such as facet arthritis or degeneration do not automatically mean that the facet joint is the source of pain. These changes are common, particularly as we age, so imaging always needs to be interpreted alongside the person’s symptoms, movement behaviour and clinical assessment. The episode also challenges some common misconceptions, including the idea that facet arthritis means inevitable decline, that the back simply needs more stretching, or that injections are the only option. Finally, we break down the rehabilitation process from identifying and reducing aggravating movements, to improving spine hygiene, walking tolerance, spinal endurance, movement proficiency and gradually rebuilding load capacity. The key message is that facet joint pain does not necessarily mean your spine is worn out or damaged beyond repair. In many cases, understanding the movements and loads that aggravate the joint and then progressively improving the spine’s ability to tolerate them, is far more useful than simply focusing on what appears on a scan. If you’ve been told you have facet arthritis or facet degeneration and are unsure what that actually means, this episode will give you a much clearer framework for understanding the condition and how rehabilitation can help.

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Ep. 29 Your Hip Flexors Aren't Actually Tight - Here's What’s Actually Going On

Send us Fan Mail Hip flexor “tightness” is one of the most common — and most misunderstood — complaints in both rehab and the gym. Most people assume tight means the muscle is short and needs stretching. But what if that’s not the real problem? In this episode of The Soft Tissue OT Podcast, we dive deep into what hip flexor tightness really is — and why stretching often doesn’t fix it. We explore how muscle tone, overactivity, posture, and poor movement patterns create the sensation of tightness without the muscle actually being short. You’ll learn: 🔹 The difference between true muscle shortness and perceived tightness 🔹 Why sitting all day switches off your glutes and overworks your hip flexors 🔹 How overactive muscles can feel “tight” without being shortened 🔹 Why stretching can sometimes make symptoms worse 🔹 Practical strategies to restore balance, movement, and hip function Whether you’re a clinician, student, athlete, or someone who constantly feels tight through the hips, this episode will completely change how you think about hip flexors — and how you should be treating them. #HipFlexors #HipPain #MovementRehab #Posture #StrengthAndConditioning #Physiotherapy #OccupationalTherapy #SoftTissueOTPodcast #RehabScience

Ep. 28 How Spinal Discs Heal - What you need to know

Send us Fan Mail How Spinal Discs Heal: Hydration, Nutrition, and Endplates Spinal discs are one of the most fascinating yet misunderstood structures in the human body. Unlike most tissues, they don’t have their own blood supply — so how do they get the nutrients they need to stay healthy and strong? In this episode of The Soft Tissue OT Podcast, we dive deep into the science of disc health and healing — exploring how hydration, nutrition, and the integrity of your cartilage endplates all work together to keep your spine resilient. You’ll learn: 🔹 How spinal discs actually receive nutrients 🔹 The role of water content, diffusion, and endplates in spinal health 🔹 Why your spine feels stiffer in the morning — and what that means 🔹 How loading and unloading cycles promote disc nutrition and healing 🔹 Practical strategies to protect your discs long-term Whether you’re a clinician, student, or someone managing chronic back pain, this episode will give you a clear, evidence-based understanding of how your discs really work — and how to help them heal. #SpinalHealth #LowBackPain #DiscHealing #SpineRehab #Physiotherapy #OccupationalTherapy #SoftTissueOTPodcast #McGillMethod 🔔 This episode contains a short message about the Soft Tissue OT Academy online course — an on-demand training program helping occupational therapists build confidence in musculoskeletal assessment, treatment, and rehab. Learn more at https://stan.store/SoftTissueOTAcademy

Ep. 27 The Overlooked Link Between Shoulder Pain and the Scapula

Send us Fan Mail THE OVERLOOKED LINK BETWEEN SHOULDER PAIN AND THE SCAPULA When it comes to shoulder pain, most people focus on the rotator cuff, the joint, or the tendons — but rarely the scapula. Yet, the scapula (shoulder blade) plays a critical role in almost every movement your shoulder makes. When it doesn’t move, tilt, or rotate properly, pain and dysfunction quickly follow. In this episode of The Soft Tissue OT Podcast, we dive deep into the connection between the scapula and shoulder pain — exploring how poor scapular control, positioning, or strength can be the missing piece behind ongoing shoulder issues. You’ll learn: 🔹 The anatomy and function of the scapula and its stabilizing muscles 🔹 How scapular dyskinesia contributes to common shoulder pathologies 🔹 The relationship between posture, stability, and shoulder performance 🔹 Assessment and rehab strategies to restore scapular control and reduce pain 🔹 Why clinicians often overlook scapular movement — and how to fix that Whether you’re a clinician, a student, or someone struggling with persistent shoulder pain, this episode will help you see the shoulder in a whole new way — starting with the foundation that holds it all together: the scapula. 🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you listen. 🔔 This episode contains a short message about the Soft Tissue OT Academy online course — an on-demand training program helping occupational therapists build confidence in musculoskeletal assessment, treatment, and rehab. Learn more at https://stan.store/SoftTissueOTAcademy

EP.26 Spondylolisthesis Explained: The Science, Symptoms, and Solutions

Send us Fan Mail Spondylolisthesis Explained: The Science, Symptoms, and Solutions Spondylolisthesis is one of the most overlooked yet impactful causes of low back pain. It doesn’t just create discomfort — it can change how you move, stand, and function in daily life. In this episode of The Soft Tissue OT Podcast, we break down what really happens when a vertebra slips forward, who is most at risk, and what you can do to manage it effectively. Whether you’re a health professional wanting to sharpen your clinical reasoning or someone personally dealing with persistent back issues, this episode will give you the clarity and tools you’ve been looking for. We cover: 🔍 What spondylolisthesis actually is 🔍 The difference between isthmic and degenerative types 🔍 Key signs and symptoms to look out for 🔍 Evidence-informed treatment and management strategies 🔍 Practical advice to restore function and protect your spine long-term 📲 Tune in now as we simplify a complex condition and give you actionable insights you can use in practice — or in your own recovery.

Ep. 25 Bridging the Gap Between Spinal Science and Patient Care ft Dr Jerome Fryer

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we’re joined by chiropractor, researcher, and founder of Dynamic Disc Designs, Jerome Fryer, for a powerful conversation that challenges how we approach spinal care — clinically and educationally. We dive into some of the most misunderstood areas of spine rehab, including: 🔍 The limitations of the “non-specific low back pain” label 🧠 Why clear, visual, and empowering patient education is often the missing link in effective treatment 📚 The importance of staying current with spine research — and how clinical outcomes suffer when practitioners fall behind 🔁 How cyclic loading and movement promote disc health and resilience ⚖️ The gap between what the research says and what’s actually communicated in practice Jerome shares his insights on bridging the disconnect between cutting-edge spinal science and what patients experience in real-world rehab. Whether you're a clinician or a patient, this episode will shift the way you think about spinal care. 🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms. #LowBackPain #SpinalRehab #PatientEducation #JeromeFryer #DynamicDiscDesigns #DiscHealth #ClinicalReasoning #SofttissueOT #Occupationaltherapy #McGillmethod

Ep.24 The Truth About Meniscus Tears: What Most People Don’t Know

Send us Fan Mail Meniscus injuries are one of the most common causes of knee pain — but they’re also one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we uncover the real story behind meniscus tears, separating fact from fiction and giving you the clinical insights that most people (and even some professionals) don’t know. We break down: 🔍 What the meniscus actually is and why it matters 🧠 The different types of meniscus tears — and how they occur ❗ Signs and symptoms that point to a meniscus issue ⚖️ Surgery vs. non-operative rehab — what the evidence says, and how to decide 💪 Our approach to effective, movement-based rehabilitation Whether you're a clinician, a student, or someone dealing with knee pain yourself, this episode is packed with straight-talking advice and clinical reasoning to help you understand, manage, and treat meniscus injuries more effectively. #MeniscusTear #KneeInjury #RehabVsSurgery #PhysiotherapyPodcast #MovementIsMedicine #KneeRehab

Ep. 23 Step-by-Step: How I Assessed, Diagnosed, and Rehabilitated This Shoulder Injury

Send us Fan Mail In this special episode of The Soft Tissue OT Podcast, we’re bringing you something a little different — a live recording from our Soft Tissue Interest Group. 🎥 This session features my full clinical breakdown of an Acromio-Clavicular (AC) joint case — including how I approached the assessment, the reasoning behind my diagnosis, and the exact rehab strategies I used to get this patient back to full function. 💡 If you've ever wanted to get inside the mind of a clinician managing a tricky shoulder case, this is your chance. I walk you through: 🔍 The subjective clues that narrowed the diagnosis 🧠 The clinical reasoning at each stage of assessment 🧪 The special tests and differential diagnoses considered 💪 The treatment pathway and exercise progression that led to success This episode isn’t theory — it’s real clinical application, delivered in a step-by-step format you can apply to your own practice. 📢 Clinicians, students, and anyone passionate about shoulder rehab — don’t miss this! 🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. #ACJointPain #ShoulderRehab #SoftTissueOT #ClinicalReasoning #Physiotherapy #Musculoskeletal #shoulderpain #MusculoskeletalAssessment

Ep. 22 Solving SIJ Issues: The Hidden Fix Nobody Talks About

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Soft Tissue OT Podcast, we dive deep into one of the most misunderstood sources of low back and pelvic pain — the sacroiliac joint (SIJ). We start by breaking down the common signs and symptoms of SIJ dysfunction and why it's often misdiagnosed or missed altogether. Then, we reveal what most people — even many clinicians — get wrong about SIJ issues, and why a surface-level approach often leads to poor outcomes. You’ll also learn about the critical importance of force-coupling — the coordinated activation of specific muscles to stabilize the SIJ — and why simply stretching or strengthening is never enough without proper patterning. Finally, we guide you through the principles of correct SIJ rehabilitation: what needs to be done, what mistakes to avoid, and how to truly restore stability and function. Whether you're a clinician, a student, or someone dealing with stubborn low back or pelvic pain, this episode will give you a clear roadmap. #podcast #health #wellbeing #backpain #rehab #softtissueot #rehab #SIJ #OT

Ep. 21 Rotator Cuff 101: Anatomy, Injuries & Rehab Explained ft Brett Zani

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Deep Dive into the Rotator Cuff with Special Guest Brett Zani! 🎙️ The rotator cuff plays a crucial role in shoulder function and stability, but it’s also one of the most commonly injured areas. In this episode, we’re joined by repeat special guest Brett Zani to break down everything you need to know about this important muscle group. 🔍 We Cover: ✅ The anatomy of the rotator cuff—what it is & how it works ✅ The true role of the rotator cuff in movement & stability ✅ The two most common conditions: Rotator cuff tendinopathy & tears ✅ How these injuries happen and what can be done to manage them 💥 PLUS – We’ve got something special at the end of this episode! If you’re a clinician or student interested in shoulders, you won’t want to miss this. But you’ll have to listen to find out! 🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube! #RotatorCuff #ShoulderInjury #Physiotherapy #SportsRehab #ShoulderPain #health #occupationaltherapy #softtissueot #rotatorcuff

Ep. 20 McGill 'Big 3' Core Exercises: Worth the Hype?

Send us Fan Mail Are the McGill Big 3 core exercises really as good as people say? In this episode, we break down the science behind these three powerhouse exercises and why they are a staple in low back rehab and core strengthening. You'll learn: ✅ Why traditional core training falls short for low back pain ✅ How the McGill Big 3 build true spinal stability ✅ Who benefits most from these exercises (and who doesn’t) ✅ Common mistakes people make when doing them If you’re dealing with low back pain, weak core stability, or just want to bulletproof your spine, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube! #McGillBig3 #CoreStrength #LowBackPain #SpinalStability #BackPainRelief #RehabExercises

Ep. 19 Shoulder Bursitis Decoded: What You Need To Know

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Soft Tissue OT Podcast, we’re diving deep into shoulder bursitis, a common condition that can cause debilitating shoulder pain. Whether you're currently dealing with it or just want to learn more, this episode will walk you through everything you need to know. I’ll break down the causes, symptoms, and treatment options. We’ll cover key topics, including: What shoulder bursitis is and how it affects your shoulder joint Explaining the true root cause behind shoulder bursitis Effective treatment strategies to reduce pain Practical tips for managing your condition at home The role of Soft Tissue OT and exercises in recovery And much more! Take a listen as we break down this commonly misunderstood condition, providing you with practical, evidence-based advice to help you better manage your shoulder pain and improve your quality of life. This episode is filled with actionable insights you can start using today! 🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms! If you have enjoyed this podcast episode, please share and SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to ensure you don't miss any future episodes. #shoulderpain #shoulderbursitis #shoulderpainfix #ExerciseForPain #SoftTissueOT #PainManagement #WellnessPodcast #HealthTips #PodcastEpisode #PerthInjuryPainClinic

Ep. 18 Answering The Top 10 Googled Questions About Low Back Pain

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we’re diving deep into the internet’s most searched questions about low back pain. From the best exercises and sleeping positions to signs of serious conditions and whether surgery is necessary, I’ll be answering the top 10 questions that people ask Google about managing and understanding low back pain. Join me as I break down these commonly asked questions and provide practical, evidence-based advice to help you better manage your back pain and make informed decisions about your health. Whether you're experiencing low back pain or work with clients who do, this episode is packed with useful information that’s easy to digest and apply in everyday life. Listen in to discover: 🔹 The best exercises for relieving low back pain 🔹 How to know if your pain is serious 🔹 Whether surgery is required 🔹 The ideal sleeping position for your spine ...and much more! Tune in and take the first step toward a pain-free future! 🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms! #LowBackPain #BackPainRelief #ExerciseForPain #HealthyBack #PainManagement #SpinalHealth #WellnessPodcast #HealthTips #PodcastEpisode #PerthInjuryPainClinic

Ep. 17 Spinal Stability: The Science Behind the Neutral Zone Hypothesis

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Soft Tissue OT Podcast, we dive into the complex world of spinal health and injury prevention with a focus on the ground breaking Neutral Zone Hypothesis proposed by renowned researcher Manohar Panjabi. Join us as we explore the intricacies of the spine, the causes and prevention of spinal injuries, and the critical role of spinal stability. We begin by breaking down the anatomy of the spine and the common issues that can lead to injury. Understanding this concept is key to preventing injuries and maintaining a healthy spine. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to identify and address instability in the spine, the relationship between the three subsystems of the spine; The Active, Passive and Neural Control Subsystem. How the Spine becomes injured The P.A.N model for spinal stability What is the neutral zone and why is it important How optimal stability is achieved And More! Whether you're an athlete, a healthcare professional, or someone dealing with back pain, this episode offers essential knowledge to help you achieve optimal spinal health. Tune in to learn about the science behind spinal stability and discover effective strategies to protect your spine from injury. Enhance your understanding of the Neutral Zone Hypothesis and take proactive steps towards a healthier, pain-free back. #backpain #lowbackpain #mcgillmethod #spine #spinalstability #corestability #softtissueot #ot #occupationaltherapy #rehab #prehab #health #wellness #backpainrehab #lowbackpainrehab #healthpodcast

Ep. 16 The Barefoot Sprinter: The Science and Art of Running - Part 2

Send us Fan Mail This is part two featuring special guest Graham Tuttle: The Barefoot Sprinter continues to share his knowledge on transitioning to barefoot running and offering practical advice for improving your form and performance. Whether you're recovering from an injury or aiming to boost your speed and endurance this episode is for you! We'll also discuss topics such as the biomechanics of different running surfaces, and how to optimize your training for long-term success. Tune in and discover how to unlock your full barefoot potential, enhancing your running technique, preventing injuries, embracing your running journey! In Part 2, we cover various topics including; ANATOMY OF YOUR FOOT TOP TIPS FOR INJUYRY FREE RUNNING TRUTH ABOUT SPORTS SHOES/CLEATS AND MUCH MORE! If you have enjoyed this podcast episode, please share and SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to ensure you don't miss any future episodes. #softtissueot #running #barefoot #OT #health #wellness #runningrehab #sprinting #barefootrunning #rehab #prehab #marathon

Ep. 15 The Barefoot Sprinter: The Science and Art of Running - Part 1

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Soft Tissue OT Podcast, we are joined by a special guest, the Barefoot Sprinter (Graham Tuttle), to dive deep into the world of running. We explore the ins and outs of running, benefits of barefoot, running mechanics and injury prevention. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, this episode offers valuable tips and techniques to help you take your running game to the next level. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on the mechanics, benefits, and joys of running the natural way. In part 1 of this podcast interview, we cover various topics including; Do you really have Flat feet? How we are able to run What type of shoes should you be wearing And much more! If you have enjoyed this podcast episode, please share and SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to ensure you don't miss any future episodes. #softtissueot #running #barefoot #OT #health #wellness #runningrehab #sprinting #barefootrunning #rehab #prehab

Ep. 14 Achilles Tendinopathy: A comprehensive guide to recovery

Send us Fan Mail On this episode of The Soft Tissue OT, we're focusing on Achilles tendinopathy, a condition affecting the largest and strongest tendon in the body. This condition often affects runners, but also affects non-active population too! Tune in as we discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment strategies for Achilles tendinopathy. In this episode we discuss: What is Achilles tendinopathy the anatomy of the Achilles and calf musculature The risk factors for developing this condition Step-by-step rehab protocol to fix this issue And much more! if you have enjoyed this podcast episode, please share and SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to ensure you don’t miss any future episodes. #SoftTissueOT #OT #occupationaltherapy #mindfulness #holistichealth #health #wellness

Ep. 13 From Debilitating Back Pain to World Record Squat - The Brian Carroll Story

Send us Fan Mail Tune into this inspiring episode of The Soft Tissue OT as we sit down with the incredible Brian Carroll. From the depths of debilitating back pain to the pinnacle of powerlifting success, Brian shares his awe-inspiring journey to setting the world record for the heaviest ever squat. Discover the resilience, dedication, and strategies that transformed adversity into triumph. We discuss; How Brian Healed his Fractured spine without Surgery How to train correctly and avoid injury Secret weapon for your rehab journey Why people commonly fail their low back rehab and much more! If you have enjoyed this podcast episode, please share and SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to ensure you don’t miss any future episodes. #SoftTissueOT #OT #occupationaltherapy #mindfulness #holistichealth #health #wellness

Ep.12 How Mindfulness Reshapes Brain Activity to Manage Anxiety with Brett Zani

Send us Fan Mail Join host, Jordan and special guest Brett Zani as they explore the transformative power of mindfulness for anxiety. We delve into the myriad benefits of mindfulness, exploring its profound impact on changing brain activity and reshaping our response to anxiety. Join the conversation as we share practical techniques, providing a toolkit for listeners to seamlessly integrate mindfulness into their lives. We explore; The science behind mindfulness How Mindfulness reshapes brain activity The numerous physiological and mental benefits Practical toolkit for using mindfulness And Much More! If you have enjoyed this podcast episode, please SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to ensure you don’t miss any future episodes. #SoftTissueOT #OT #occupationaltherapy #mindfulness #holistichealth #health #wellness

Ep.11 Unveiling the Secrets of Mobility with The Mobility Coach

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Dive into the world of movement and flexibility on the latest episode of The Soft Tissue OT Podcast! This week, we're thrilled to sit down with none other than The Mobility Coach, a guru in the realm of physical freedom and flexibility. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of mobility and delve into the science, techniques, and mindset that shape this integral aspect of overall well-being. The Mobility Coach, Aidan Talijancich, is a seasoned pro with a wealth of experience, shares invaluable insights on optimizing flexibility, preventing injuries, and unlocking your body's full potential. 🤸‍♂️ Whether you're an athlete aiming to optimize performance, someone recovering from an injury, or simply interested in maintaining a healthy, mobile lifestyle, this episode has something for everyone. Our conversation spans from the science behind mobility to actionable strategies that listeners can incorporate into their daily routines. 🔍 Topics covered include: Understanding the importance of mobility in overall health. Exploring the specialised requirements of specific joints. Debunking common myths and misconceptions about flexibility. Tailoring mobility routines for different lifestyles and fitness levels. Get ready to be inspired and motivated to take charge of your body's movement potential. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, healthcare professional, or simply curious about the wonders of mobility, this episode promises to enlighten and empower you. Tune in, subscribe, and join The Soft Tissue OT community as we unravel the secrets of mobility with The Mobility Coach! Your journey to a more flexible, resilient, and healthier you starts here. 🌟 #SoftTissueOT #MobilityMatters #PodcastJourney #TheMobilityCoach #TheSoftTissueOTPodcast