Rehab Science
Rehab Science is a health podcast hosted by Dr. Tom Walters, an orthopedic physical therapist and bestselling author. It offers practical strategies to alleviate pain, recover from injuries, and improve movement. Episodes address common issues like sciatica, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff injuries, and meniscus tears through short solo segments. The show also features guest interviews with various health experts, including osteopaths, chiropractors, surgeons, and rehabilitation scientists.
Episodes
How to Avoid Frailty: Why Strength Is the Key to Healthy Aging
As we age, one of the greatest threats to long-term health isn't just disease. It's the gradual loss of strength, muscle mass, and physical function that can ultimately lead to frailty. In this episode of the Rehab Science Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jeremy Bettle, PhD to discuss why strength training is one of the most powerful tools we have for maintaining independence, preventing injury, and i
Why Your Neck Pain Travels Into Your Arm
In this episode of the Rehab Science Podcast, Dr. Tom Walters discusses one of the most common causes of neck pain that radiates into the shoulder and arm: cervical radiculopathy. Using a real patient case, Dr. Walters explains how recurring neck tension and intermittent arm tingling ultimately led to the diagnosis of a C5-C6 disc herniation with narrowing of the intervertebral foramen. More impor
How to Rehab Patellar Tendinopathy
In this episode of the Rehab Science Podcast, Dr. Tom Walters discusses patellar tendinopathy, also known as jumper's knee, one of the most common causes of pain just below the kneecap in active adults. Using a real patient case, Dr. Walters explains why patellar tendinopathy often develops after returning to sports like basketball or volleyball following a long break from explosive exercise. You'
Hip Labral Tears: Do You Really Need Surgery?
Receiving a diagnosis of a hip labral tear can be intimidating, but it doesn't automatically mean surgery is your only option. In this episode of the Rehab Science Podcast, I discuss what the hip labrum does, why labral tears develop, and why MRI findings don't always explain a person's pain. Through the story of a patient who successfully returned to an active lifestyle after years of martial art
Tibialis Anterior Tendinopathy: Why the Front of Your Ankle Hurts
Pain along the front of the ankle or shin is a common complaint, but one potential cause is often overlooked: tibialis anterior tendinopathy. The tibialis anterior is a muscle located along the front of the shin that plays a critical role in walking, running, and other lower-body activities. Its tendon travels across the front of the ankle and attaches to the inside of the foot. This muscle helps
Understanding Pain: Why It's More Than Just Tissue Damage
Pain isn't just physical—it's a complex interplay of biology, emotions, and social factors. Are you aware of how this affects your pain? In our latest podcast, Dr. Rachel Zoffness, PhD, breaks down the biopsychosocial model of pain. She explains that pain is not just about anatomy or injuries; it's a mix of biological, psychological, and sociological factors. Understanding this can empower you to
SLAP Tears of the Shoulder: What They Are and How They're Treated
SLAP tears refer to injuries of the superior labrum of the shoulder, where the long head of the biceps tendon attaches to the glenoid. These tears are commonly identified on imaging, particularly in overhead athletes and aging populations, but their presence does not always explain pain or dysfunction. The shoulder relies heavily on soft tissue structures for stability, and the biceps–labral compl
When Shoulder Blade Pain Is Actually Coming From Your Neck
Pain between the shoulder blades is often blamed on tight muscles, poor posture, or a stubborn "knot" that just won't go away. But in many cases, that pain isn't coming from the shoulder blade region at all. In this episode of Rehab Science, Dr. Tom Walters explains how irritation of the cervical spine and lower cervical nerve roots can refer pain into the interscapular region. You'll learn why lo
Navigating a Rotator Cuff Tear — Rehab or Surgery?
In this episode of the Rehab Science podcast, Dr. Tom Walters, DPT, breaks down everything you need to know about rotator cuff tears—from anatomy and injury mechanisms to decision-making around rehab versus surgical repair. Dr. Walters explains the role of the four rotator cuff muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis) and why the supraspinatus tendon is most often aff
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Diagnosis & Treatment Strategies
In this solo episode, Dr. Tom Walters breaks down thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS)—a condition caused by compression of the nerves and blood vessels as they pass from the neck into the arm. He begins with an introduction to the condition and explains the difference between neurogenic and vascular TOS, highlighting key symptoms that require urgent medical referral. Dr. Walters then discusses how to d
Trapezius Myalgia: Diagnosis & Treatment Strategies
In this episode of the Rehab Science podcast, Dr. Tom Walters, DPT, breaks down one of the most common sources of neck and shoulder discomfort—trapezius myalgia. Often experienced as persistent tightness or aching in the upper trapezius muscle, this condition affects individuals who spend long periods sitting, working at a computer, or holding static postures under stress. Dr. Walters discusses th
Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy: Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies
In this episode of the Rehab Science Podcast, Dr. Tom Walters discusses proximal hamstring tendinopathy (PHT), a common condition affecting athletes, particularly runners and lifters. He explains the anatomy, biomechanics, and causes of PHT, emphasizing the importance of understanding the condition as a sensitivity issue rather than inflammation or a tear. The episode covers diagnostic strategies,
Pain Free Performance with Dr. John Rusin
In this episode of the Rehab Science Podcast, Dr. Tom Walters interviews Dr. John Rusin, a physical therapist and injury prevention specialist. They discuss the concept of pain-free performance, which is a movement system designed to help individuals transition from pain to optimal performance. Dr. Rusin shares his background in professional athletics and how it shaped his approach to training and
Cervical Radiculopathy: Diagnosis & Treatment strategies
In this episode of Rehab Science, Dr. Tom Walters, DPT, breaks down cervical radiculopathy—a common condition involving compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the neck. He explores the relevant cervical spine anatomy, including how disc herniations or degenerative changes like bone spurs can narrow the neural foramina and impinge nerve roots, leading to symptoms that radiate from the neck
Chronic Pain Rehabilitation with Dr. Mark Kargela
In today's episode, I speak with Dr. Mark Kargela, a seasoned clinician and educator, about chronic pain—its complexity, its impact, and how practitioners can better support patients struggling with it. The discussion focuses on shifting clinical approaches from tissue-centric models to ones that integrate contemporary neuroscience and lived experience. Key topics include: Understanding Chronic
Supraspinatus Tendinopathy: Diagnosis & Treatment Strategies
The supraspinatus is one of the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff, originating from the supraspinous fossa of the scapula and inserting onto the greater tubercle of the humerus. Its primary function is to initiate shoulder abduction and contribute to dynamic stability of the glenohumeral joint, particularly by resisting excessive superior translation of the humeral head. Due to its positi
Gluteal Tendinopathy - Diagnosis & Treatment Strategies
In today's podcast episode, we are going to look at a condition called gluteal tendinopathy, which is a common cause of lateral hip pain due to an irritation of two of the gluteal tendons (gluteus medius & gluteus minimus). Previously, this type of pain was thought to be caused by trochanteric bursitis, but more recent research has shown that bursitis only accounts for approximately 20% of these
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Versus Calf Strain (Case Study)
Today's episode covers a case I saw in the clinic in which a patient presented with symptoms consistent with a calf muscle strain, but ended up having a blood clot or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT describes a situation in which a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one of our deep veins. In many instances, this occurs in the calf region and happens after a person has undergone
Become a Successful Online Practitioner with Dr. Caleb Burgess
In today's episode, I speak with orthopedic physical therapist, content creator and entrepreneur, Dr. Caleb Burgess. Caleb is a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy, a certified specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. In 2014,
Evidence-Based ACL Rehabilitation with Dr. Wesley Wang
In today's episode, I interview physical therapist and ACL rehabilitation specialist, Dr. Wesley Wang, DPT. This episode covers much of the current research regarding ACL rehab and will be helpful to both individuals who have suffered an ACL injury or want to prevent one from happening and practitioners who treat patients who have undergone an ACL recontruction. Wesley is a physical therapist at
Sacroiliac Joint (SIJ) Dysfunction: Diagnosis & Treatment Strategies
Today's episode covers sacroiliac or SI joint pain, which is a type of low back pain. The sacroiliac joints are two small synovial joints located on the right and left sides of the low back between the sacrum and the ilium bone of the pelvis. These joints are surrounded by numerous ligaments, which makes them very strong and capable of supporting body weight. Because of their joint shape and the s
Journey From Full-Time Clinician to Successful Inventor & Entrepreneur with Pete Holman
In Today's episode, I interview clinician, entrepreneur and inventor, Pete Holman. Pete is a physical therapist, Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), international presenter, author, fitness product inventor and former US National TaeKwonDo champion living in Colorado. He graduated from the University of Colorado with a Master's of Science degree in Physical Therapy in 1997 and wen
Pain Treatment Fundamentals with Greg Lehman
In today's podcast episode, I speak with physical therapist, chiropractor, researcher and educator, Greg Lehman. Greg has been in the rehabilitation field for more than 20 years. Following his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology, he was awarded the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology Gold Medal for highest academic performance in Kinesiology. This degree allowed him to obtain certification as
How to Solve Foot Problems with Exercise with Dr. Emily Splichal
In today's episode, I talk with functional podiatrist, Dr. Emily Splichal, DPM. As a Podiatrist, Human Movement Specialist, and Global Leader in Barefoot Science and Rehabilitation, Dr. Splichal has developed a keen eye for movement dysfunction and neuromuscular control during gait. Originally trained as a surgeon through Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City and Mt Vernon Hospital in Mt Ver
An Osteopathic Approach to the Treatment of Pain
In today's episode, I talk with osteopath, Brendon Talbot, BHK, M.OMSc about his educational background, osteopathic training and how he treats individuals with musculoskeletal disorders. Here is a bit more about Brendon from his website: "Motivated by the body's innate ability to self heal and self regulate, Brendon prides himself on providing the highest quality of Osteopathic care. Brendon al
Pain Science: Part III
Today's episode is the final installment in the Exploring Pain series. Please make sure to listen to the first two episodes as those episodes lay the foundation for today's episode. In this episode, we explore outdated pain models and false beliefs that are held by many people regarding what causes pain and how pain should be treated. I hope you find the episode to be helpful! As I mentioned in th
Pain Science: Part II
Today's episode is a follow-up on last week's pain science episode, so make sure to check that one out at the following link before diving into this week's episode. In today's episode, we look at the pain loop and how sensory messages (afferent messages) ascend up the spinal cord to the brain and then create efferent responses (movement, pain stress) that descend back down the spinal cord to rele
Pain Science: Part I
In today's episode, I introduce the science of pain and what current research has taught us about the physiology of pain. Whether you are a practitioner or someone experiencing pain, this episode will help you better manage painful symptoms. When we understand pain at a deeper level, we are able to identify the factors in our own lives that may be contributing to the pain we experience. Factors su
Sciatica: Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies
Sciatica is a umbrella term that refers to pain and/or altered sensation (numbness, tingling, heaviness) that travels into the sciatic nerve distribution or that of one of the lumbosacral nerve roots that makes up the sciatic nerve (L4-S3). Sciatica is caused by an irritation or inflammation of the sciatic nerve or one of the nerve roots that forms the sciatic nerve. It is often seen with disc bul
Pain Free Performance Specialist Dr. John Rusin
In today's episode, I talk with my friend and colleague, Dr. John Rusin. Dr. Rusin is one of the fitness and sports performance industry's leading experts in the pain-free performance training model that blends the world of strength and conditioning with clinical movement based diagnostic medicine to provide the ultimate results based methods, programming and practice for an impressively diverse
Manual Therapy: A Modern Perspective
In today's episode, Kirsten and I discuss manual therapy and how it should fit into the practitioner's approach based on more recent research. Manual therapy describes 'hands-on' techniques (massage, joint mobilization, adjustments/manipulations) that are performed on a patient by a practitioner. While these techniques can provide short-term pain relief in some cases, they should be delivered with
Entrepreneurship and Physical Therapy with Dr. Spencer Lalk
In today's episode, I talk with my friend and fellow physical therapist entrepreur, Dr. Spencer Lalk, DPT. Dr. Lalk is a physical therapist renowned for his innovative approach to patient care. He has collaborated with leading health systems across the United States to elevate education, incorporate leading technology, and improve patient outcomes. As the founder of MedStory Media, Dr. Lalk empowe
Tennis & Golfer's Elbow: Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies
In today's episode, we cover tennis and golfer's elbow. We talk through common signs and symptoms and how you would go about treating these conditions. Golfers elbow creates pain on the inside of the elbow where the wrist and finger muscles attach on the medial epicondyle. The condition is usually diagnosed as medial epicondylitis or epicondylalgia. Pain in this region is typically associated wit
Clicking Shoulders, Gluteus Medius Exercises, Meniscus Rehab and More
In today's episode of the podcast, we cover common questions that were submitted on my Instagram account. Topics covered include: -How to fix clicking and popping in the shoulder and improve shoulder joint stability -How to reduce knee joint stiffness -Best treatments for a meniscus tear -How to get back into exercise after a long layoff -Best exercises to strengthen gluteus medius and minimus M
VO2 Max, Fatigue and Exercise Physiology with Dr. Tim Van Haitsma
In today' episode, I talk with my friend and former colleague, Dr. Tim Van Haitsma, PhD. Dr. Van Haitsma graduated from Calvin College, earned a master's degree in exercise physiology at Indiana University and a doctorate in exercise physiology at the University of Utah. His expertise includes human physiology, exercise physiology, human performance, and clinical exercise physiology. His research
Hamstring Tendinopathy, Knee Pain, Patellar Tendon Injuries...
In today's episode I answer questions that were submitted on my Instagram account. We cover topics including hamstring tendinopathy, patellar tendon injuries, anterior knee pain and how to gain confidence as a new practitioner. Here is the proximal hamstring tendinopathy research article I mentioned in the episode. My book has rehab programs for the 50 most common orthopedic conditions, including
Pelvic Health Physical Therapy with Dr. Christine Pieton
In today's episode, I discuss pelvic health physical therapy with pelvic health physical therapist, Dr. Christine Pieton. This area of musculoskeletal health is not understood well by most medical and rehabilitation practitioners and there is a great deal of misinformation that exists amongst the general population. This episode helps clear up much of these questions and can help you decide as to
Types of Tissue Injuries
In this episode, I explain the different types of injuries according to which tissue was damaged. These categories include muscle strains, tendon injuries, ligament sprains, cartilage injuries, nerve injuries and bone injuries. Understanding what type of injury you have is useful when determining the most appropriate treatment plan and will help expedite the recovery process. To learn more about t
Patellofemoral (Kneecap) Joint Pain: Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies
Today's episode covers patellofemoral joint pain and strategies that can be implemented to help relieve pain and improve your functional ability. Patellofemoral joint pain syndrome (PFPS) describes a very common condition in which a person experiences pain just behind the kneecap. Pain associated with this condition is usually reproduced with activities that put more stress on the joint, such as r
How Pilates Can Help Get Rid of Back Pain with Robin Long
In this podcast episode, I speak with pilates expert, Robin Long. Robin is the founder and CEO of Lindywell, which is a global wellness platform that reaches millions of women in more than 100 countries around the world. Robin lives and works in sunny Santa Barbara, CA. She obtained her comprehensive Pilates certification through Body Arts and Science International and her barre certification thro
Plantar Fasciitis: Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies
Plantar fasciitis or fasciopathy (PF) is the most common cause of heel pain and occurs in sedentary and active individuals. The pain most commonly occurs at the front of the heel where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus). Symptoms are typically sharp in nature and present after initially standing in the morning, after prolonged standing or when returning to standing after bei
Phases of Healing | How Long Do Injuries Take to Heal?
In today's episode, I discuss the three phases of tissue healing. Understanding the phases of healing can help you better understand how long an injury will take to heal and what you should focus on during each phase of healing. The phases of healing covered in this episode include: Phase 1 - Inflammatory Phase (2-3 days) Phase 2 - Fibroblastic Phase (3 weeks) Phase 3 - Remodeling Phase (4 weeks t
Human Performance Science with Dr. Jeremy Bettle
In today's episode, I talk with human performance expert Dr. Jeremy Bettle, PhD about strategies you can implement to help boost your own performance. Jeremy Bettle is internationally recognized as a leading expert in the field of Human Performance. His role as an innovator and disruptor, over almost 20 years, at the cutting edge of high performance sport led to the development of world-leading s
Shoulder Impingement (Subacromial Pain Syndrome): Diagnosis & Treatment Strategies
Shoulder impingement is an older diagnosis that was thought to be due to a pinching or impinging of the rotator cuff (supraspinatus) tendon, biceps tendon or subacromial bursa. Pain would typically occur when lifting the arm away from the body and overhead. Over time, the name of this diagnosis was changed to 'subacromial pain syndrome' as it became evident that most people have some degree of imp
How to Figure Out What Type of Pain You Have (Mechanical vs Neuropathic vs Chronic)
In today's episode, I cover the three primary types of musculoskeletal pain, which include mechanical (nociceptive) pain, neuropathic (nerve) pain and chronic or persistent pain. Understanding what type of pain you have helps determine the best path forward in terms of which treatment options to pursue. In future episodes, I will dive deeper into specific treatment interventions for each type of p
Regenerative Medicine (PRP and Stem Cell Injections) with Dr. Jervis Yau
In this episode, I talk with orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist, Dr. Jervis Yau, MD. We discuss a wide range of topics including hip impingement, rotator cuff tears, PRP and stell cell injections and ACL recontructions. Dr. Yau has a particular interest in minimally invasive techniques of the shoulder, knee, hip, elbow and ankle, as well as joint preservation and cartilage restorati
How to Overcome Pain and Heal From Injury
In this episode, I explain the treatment model I use when treating patients. Understanding this model, will help you manage pain issues or injuries that you might be dealing with now or encounter in the future. This three phased model is covered in detail in each of the 30 rehab program in my self-guided rehab book and involves the following phases: Reduce Pain & Sensitivity - interventions in
What Physical Therapists Do to Stay Healthy
Welcome to the first episode of the Rehab Science Podcast! In this episode, I interview my wife and fellow orthopedic physical therapist, Dr. Kirsten Walters, DPT, CSCS. We discuss her background, how we met and the strategies we both implement to stay healthy. We cover a number of topics including, exercise, nutrition, supplements, sleep, stress management and more. If you enjoyed the episode, wo
