Sports Medicine Project

Blake Withers
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Dec 7, 2025 • 12min

Selecting the Right ASICS Blast Shoe for Your Patient: Superblast, Novablast, Sonicblast, Megablast and Dynablast

Confused by all the ASICS “Blast” shoes? In this video I break down the entire Blast family and help you match the right shoe to your running.Megablast – max stack, FF TURBO SQUARED, ultra-bouncy long run and easy day optionSonicblast – dual-foam midsole with Pebax plate, built for tempo and faster long runs Superblast 2 – the super trainer sweet spot for daily training, long runs and some workouts Novablast 5 – the classic bouncy daily trainer, 8 mm drop, big stack without feeling unstable  Dynablast – more affordable, lower stack, flexible Blast option that still feels fun underfoot Which models suit higher weekly mileage and long runsWhen I might lean towards Megablast or Superblast?Where Dynablast and Novablast fit for newer runners or those not used to very high stack shoes?
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Nov 30, 2025 • 55min

Shockwave Therapy vs. Exercise: What Works Best for the Hamstring?

SummaryIn this conversation, Blake Withers interviews Aidan Rich, a sports and exercise physiotherapist, about his research on proximal hamstring tendinopathy and the recent randomized control trial comparing physiotherapy and shockwave therapy. Aidan shares his journey into the field, the challenges of designing the study, and the importance of education in treatment. They discuss the nuances of exercise rehabilitation, patient experiences, and the surprising results of the trial, which showed no significant difference between the two treatment methods. Aidan emphasizes the need for individualized care and the potential for future research in this area.Paper links: Main RCT: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/03635465251391134https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41037932/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40469642/https://www.jsams.org/article/S1440-2440(25)00275-0/pdfAidan Rich:PhD Candidate | APA Titled Sports and Exercise Physiotherapist | State ManagerA dedicated and passionate physiotherapy professional with extensive experience in both academic research and clinical management. Currently pursuing a PhD with the topic of 'Physiotherapy for Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy,' where he has conducted two randomised trials. In addition to his academic pursuits, he oversee the clinical, financial, and cultural performance of a network of 20 physiotherapy and sports medicine clinics across Victoria. His role involves ensuring the highest standards of patient care, optimising financial performance, and fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Aidan Rich03:48 The Evolution of Tendinopathy Treatment08:30 Shockwave Therapy: Insights and Experiences13:13 Designing the RCT: Methodology and Protocols18:20 The Exercise Program: Structure and Rationale23:07 Education in Rehabilitation: Importance and Implementation28:39 The Benefits of Resistance Training29:52 Qualitative Insights from RCT Participants31:36 Surprising Strength Outcomes in Rehabilitation33:42 Effect Modifiers in Treatment Response35:20 Clinical Applications of Shockwave Therapy37:01 Patient Preferences in Treatment Choices38:00 Individualized Treatment Approaches39:04 Evaluating Shockwave Therapy Effectiveness41:22 Challenges in Designing Effective Trials43:22 Comparative Outcomes in Tendinopathy Treatments45:43 Acute Responses to Shockwave Therapy48:36 Key Takeaways for Clinicians50:59 Future Directions in Research
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Oct 26, 2025 • 1h 46min

Foot function & Foot Orthosis w/ Ian Griffiths #128

Audio a little quiet last 54 mins. Ian is a sports podiatrist and educator who helps people stay active and reach their goals through evidence-based pain and injury management. A keen runner himself, he pairs lived experience with top-tier credentials—degrees in Podiatric Medicine and Sports Injury, postgraduate training in Sports Podiatry and Academic Practice, and Fellowships of the Royal College of Podiatry, the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Glasgow, and the Higher Education Academy—while lecturing at Queen Mary University of London and holding adjunct roles at Monash and Ziauddin Universities. He has presented internationally and supported elite teams including the PGA European Tour, England Rugby 7s, Surrey Cricket, GB Men’s Hockey and Arsenal (including London 2012), but takes greatest pride in helping everyday athletes stay healthy, resilient and able to enjoy their sport.
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7 snips
Oct 19, 2025 • 14min

Relative energy deficiency in sport: What Every Athlete & Clinician Must Know #127

Discover the crucial concept of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) and its impact on athletes' health and performance. Learn about the prevalence of low energy availability, key risk factors, and effective red flags for screening. The podcast highlights practical tools for clinicians and athletes, emphasizing the importance of addressing energy deficits. Gain insights into the consequences of under-fueling, and explore how to foster collaboration with dietitians to enhance athlete care and performance.
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Oct 6, 2025 • 11min

Stress Fractures in Runners | What They Are and Why They Matter #126

Stress fractures are a major concern for runners, affecting up to 20%. The discussion delves into how stress fractures develop and the importance of taking time off for proper healing. Recovery varies by injury location and severity. Insights on biomechanics highlight the role of terrain and foot posture in injury risk, while under-fueling and genetics play crucial roles in bone health. Strategies for recovery and prevention emphasize gradual loading and the mental aspects of returning to the sport.
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Sep 28, 2025 • 1h 36min

Fact Or Myth? Flat Feet & Foot Orthosis w/ Dr Gabriel Moisan #125

Find Gabriel:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gabriel-Moisanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-moisan-a382aaa7/In this conversation, Blake Withers interviews Gabriel Moisan, a podiatrist and researcher, about his journey in the field of podiatry, the evolution of foot orthoses, and the ongoing debates surrounding their use. They discuss the challenges of research in podiatry, the mechanisms of foot orthoses, and the differences between custom and prefabricated devices. Moisan shares insights on how to determine the appropriate dosage of foot orthoses for patients and critiques the terminology used in describing conditions like adult acquired flatfoot. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding both the mechanical and psychosocial effects of foot orthoses in patient care. In this conversation, Blake Withers and Gabriel Moisan delve into the advancements in podiatry, particularly focusing on foot orthosis, 3D printing technology, and the importance of clinical outcomes. They discuss the role of footwear in treatment, the evolution of materials used in orthotics, and the integration of technology to enhance patient care. The conversation also highlights the significance of teaching and learning in podiatry, the challenges of research, and the future directions of the field, including the potential of AI in predicting treatment outcomes.takeawaysGabriel Moisan's journey in podiatry began with a desire to understand foot orthoses.Research often leads to more questions than answers in podiatry.The traditional view of pronation as 'evil' is being challenged.Alignment theories in podiatry are being replaced by a focus on function.Research needs to control for biases to accurately assess treatment outcomes.Foot orthoses work through mechanical, somatosensory, and psychosocial effects.Comfort in foot orthoses is not always the priority for effective treatment.The debate between custom and prefabricated foot orthoses continues.Determining the appropriate dosage of foot orthoses is crucial for patient outcomes.Terminology in podiatry needs to evolve to better reflect current understanding. 3D printing has revolutionized the manufacturing of orthotics.Clinical outcomes are prioritized over biomechanical outcomes.Footwear plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of orthotic devices.Material science is evolving, but significant changes are still needed.Technology integration in orthotics could improve patient outcomes.Patient feedback is essential for effective treatment.Teaching students about orthotic modifications is vital.Research in podiatry is often limited by funding and resources.The evolution of foot orthosis has been slow but necessary.Future research may focus on AI to predict treatment success.Exploring the World of PodiatryThe Journey of a Podiatrist: Gabriel Moisan"Pronation is evil.""I just want to see it.""We should think outside the box."titlesSound BitesChapters00:00Introduction and Name Pronunciation00:32Gabriel Moisan's Journey in Podiatry04:33The Evolution of Foot Orthosis Understanding10:33Research Challenges in Foot Orthosis16:40The Mechanisms of Foot Orthosis20:15Clinical Applications and Effectiveness of Foot Orthosis32:49Understanding Foot Orthosis for Adult Acquired Flatfoot39:44The Debate on Terminology in Podiatry46:54Long-Term Use of Foot Orthosis: A Patient-Centric Approach51:35Advancements in Foot Orthosis Manufacturing56:15Customizing Foot Orthosis for Specific Conditions01:04:08The Future of Foot Orthosis: Technology and Innovation01:09:29The Role of Technology in Podiatry01:12:25Understanding Foot Orthosis and Patient Outcomes01:15:29Predicting Biomechanical Effects of Orthoses01:18:26The Impact of 3D Printing on Orthotic Modifications01:22:36Future of Foot Orthosis: Research and Innovations01:26:05The Need for Comprehensive Resources in Podiatry01:26:41Influential Figures in Podiatry and Research Aspirations
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Sep 21, 2025 • 1h 29min

Running Injuries w/ Luke Nelson #124

Luke Nelson, a renowned Sports & Exercise Chiropractor and running coach with over 20 years of experience, dives deep into running injuries. He shares insights on the evolution of chiropractic care towards active rehabilitation, emphasizing strength training for injury prevention. Luke discusses the use of plyometrics and isometrics for tendon rehab, effective communication with injured runners, and personalized training programs. He also highlights the importance of objective strength testing and shares his shoe preferences for optimal performance.
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Sep 14, 2025 • 1h 4min

Getting Paid In HealthCare: The Good, the Bad & the Awkward. Can Employee make 200k? #123

Get some help with Jack: https://www.clinicmastery.comFind Jack: https://www.instagram.com/jackdobrien/SummaryIn this episode, Blake Withers and Jack O'Brien discuss the often-overlooked aspects of business and finance in healthcare. They explore the importance of sustainability, negotiation strategies for new graduates, and the realities of income potential in allied health professions. Jack shares his journey from clinician to business owner and emphasizes the need for effective communication and understanding of financial literacy in the healthcare field. The conversation also touches on the challenges of starting a private practice, the significance of KPIs, and the value of patient-centered care.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation00:29 The Importance of Business in Allied Health01:41 Jack O'Brien's Journey in Healthcare03:36 Sustainability in Healthcare Practices07:42 Negotiating Your First Job10:48 Work-Life Balance vs. Work-Life Tension12:49 Understanding Income Potential in Healthcare16:06 The Reality of Business Expenses19:47 Profit Sharing and Employee Satisfaction20:55 Effective Communication in Negotiations25:00 Increasing Your Income Potential27:51 Ethical Revenue Generation in Healthcare32:55 The Challenges of Starting Your Own Practice33:46 The Reality of Starting a Clinic37:29 Exploring Career Progression in Healthcare41:24 Financial Strategies for Clinicians41:58 Contractor vs Employee: Weighing the Risks45:18 Creating a Reward Structure in Clinics48:20 The Value of Patient Care and Communication58:12 Believing in the Value of Every Patient Interaction
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5 snips
Sep 7, 2025 • 11min

Running for a PhD: Can Changing Your Gait Instantly Reduce Knee Pain? #122

study link :https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9884822/pdf/fspor-04-1048655.pdfKey takeaways: Gait modifications can immediately reduce patellofemoral pain in some runners.The most effective strategies were increasing step rate by 10% and adopting a forefoot strike pattern.Runners with a rearfoot strike benefitted more from forefoot strike and “running softer,” while non-RFS mainly improved with a higher step rate.Reductions in patellofemoral joint force were linked to pain decreases, but not always — suggesting other mechanisms (psychological/central factors) may also contribute.Increasing step rate is likely the safest first option; forefoot strike may work but carries higher Achilles tendon load, so requires caution.
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Aug 24, 2025 • 1h 34min

Online Running Influencers: Coaches, Con Artists & Evidence Informed? with Issac Heyne #121

Issac instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isaacheyne/Substack: https://substack.com/@isaacheyne?r=jxf68&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profile&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadhAnzfZo7PbmOOABf-9MoarClQRKfYUPEdbOD-PgKY6y7d1bBdYhSKAcUV1A_aem_2VWcJabI4cL4gvFebIjangSkip to 8mins to get started!What way to evaluate information is:Applying the CRAAP testCRAAP frameworkCurrency: Is the information up‑to‑date?Relevance: Does it directly address your question or topic?Authority: Who is the author? What are their credentials and affiliations?Accuracy: Is the content supported by verifiable evidence and citations?Purpose: What is the reason behind the content—informative, persuasive, commercial, or satiricalkeywords: running, influencers, training load, misinformation, social media, sports medicine, physiotherapy, nutrition, community, injury prevention, running culture, injury prevention, running community, evidence-based practice, footwear innovation, personal experience, inclusivity, social media, athlete support, training methodssummaryIn this conversation, Blake Withers and Isaac Hain discuss the influence of running influencers on the sport, the importance of understanding training load, and the challenges of navigating misinformation in the running community. They explore the evolution of running knowledge, the impact of social media, and the necessity of critique in professional development. The discussion also touches on the role of nutrition in injury prevention and the positive aspects of running communities. In this conversation, the speakers explore the evolution of running culture, the impact of increased participation in the sport, and the importance of inclusivity within the running community. They discuss the challenges of traditional running paths and the role of evidence in running practices, emphasizing the need for individualized approaches to running injuries. The conversation also touches on the balance between tradition and innovation in running, the emotional connection to the sport, and the significance of engaging with the running community online. Ultimately, the speakers reflect on their personal experiences and the purpose they find in helping others navigate their running journeys.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Running and Physiotherapy10:18 Isaac's Journey: Runner and Clinician13:34 The Evolution of Running Knowledge16:15 The Impact of Misinformation in Running19:25 Navigating Social Media and Running Advice22:30 The Role of Critique in Professional Growth25:33 Finding Truth in Running Information28:22 The Balance of Sharing Knowledge31:25 Conclusion: The Future of Running and Health Information37:54 Understanding Knowledge Gaps in Physiotherapy41:34 Navigating Scope of Practice and Online Influence43:45 The Role of Nutrition in Physiotherapy46:58 The Impact of Social Media on Running Culture52:34 The Evolution of Running and Its Community58:36 Challenging Traditional Paths in Running01:03:27 Balancing Old and New Practices in Training01:08:25 Understanding Individualized Treatment in Healthcare01:11:28 The Complexity of Physiotherapy and Patient Care01:14:22 The Role of Social Media in Running and Community Engagement01:17:21 Personal Experiences Shaping Professional Passion01:20:36 Navigating Online Presence and Telehealth in Physiotherapy01:22:38 The Evolution of Running Footwear and Personal Preferences

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