The Physiotutors Podcast offers in-depth conversations with leading clinicians, researchers, and educators who are advancing the field of physiotherapy. Each episode follows a consistent structure—covering clinical reasoning, current evidence, practical application, and professional growth.
Our goal is to bridge the gap between research and daily practice. We discuss what the evidence really says, how to apply it, and where critical thinking matters most. Listeners can expect clear explanations, balanced discussions, and actionable insights that improve both understanding and patient outcomes.
Designed for physiotherapists, students, and educators, the Physiotutors Podcast is your reliable source for grounded, science-based learning that keeps you current and confident in your clinical work.
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Check latest episodes from Physiotutors Podcast podcast
The Ultimate Guide to Climbing Injury Rehab and Prevention with Paul Houghoughi
2026/09/30
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Summary
In this episode, physiotherapist Paul Houghhoughi, known as the climbing physio, shares his extensive expertise on climbing injuries, rehabilitation, and injury prevention. We explore common injuries, assessment techniques, rehab strategies, and the evolving landscape of climbing physiotherapy.
Guest
Paul is one of the leading physiotherapists in the climbing world and currently serves as the official physiotherapist for the Great Britain Climbing Team. He has worked with climbers from recreational athletes all the way to Olympic and World Cup competitors, combining over 25 years of climbing experience with extensive expertise in injury rehabilitation and performance.
Chapters
00:00:00 - Introduction to Paul Houghoughi, The Climbing Physio
00:01:30 - How Paul became a climbing physio and worked with elite climbers
00:03:29 - Biggest myths in climbing rehab and injury prevention
00:06:04 - Common injuries in recreational vs elite climbers
00:08:43 - Overuse injuries commonly seen in elite climbers
00:10:03 - Is climbing really a finger sport?
00:10:49 - How climbing injuries and rehab have changed over the last 10 years
00:12:19 - Assessing pulley injuries and differentiating them from tenosynovitis
00:17:22 - Sponsored segment: WriteUpp
00:18:55 - Should climbers splint after a pulley rupture?
00:21:20 - Differentiating A2 pulley pain from other hand structures
00:24:29 - Biggest mistakes clinicians make when treating climbers
00:27:51 - Chronic pulley injuries and graded rehabilitation examples
00:31:32 - How to decide when to progress pulley rehab
00:32:37 - Sponsored segment: Physiotutors courses
00:33:37 - When imaging helps or confuses finger injury management
00:37:19 - The role of the hangboard in rehab and finger strengthening
00:39:53 - Building long-term finger health and climbing resilience
00:44:50 - Advice for beginner climbers who want to improve without injury
00:47:00 - Sponsored segment: Physiotutors membership
00:48:08 - Climbing load, rest, and long-term progress
00:50:48 - Paul's digital edge device and finger force testing
00:53:49 - What is overhyped or misunderstood in climbing training?
00:56:50 - What climbing rehab and performance still need to understand
00:58:11 - Why physios should experience climbing themselves
00:59:41 - Final clinical tips for physios working with climbers
01:00:40 - Where to find Paul online
01:01:10 - Outro and Physiotutors app mention
Bonus Material
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Mastering Multidirectional Athlete Rehab with Bart Dingenen
2026/09/02
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Summary
In this episode, Dr. Bart Dingenen, a sports physiotherapist and ACL rehab specialist, discusses the complexities of rehabilitating multidirectional athletes. Topics include movement demands, deceleration, agility vs change of direction, and best practices for late-stage rehab.
Guest
Bart is a sports physiotherapist, researcher, educator, and ACL rehab specialist from Belgium, known for his work on multidirectional movement, deceleration mechanics, agility, and return to performance.
Chapters
00:00:00 — Intro
00:01:02 — What is a multidirectional athlete?
00:06:07 — Real sport vs clinic movement demands
00:08:48 — Sponsor: WriteUpp
00:10:29 — Agility vs change of direction
00:12:33 — What linear running misses in rehab
00:15:38 — Are athletes taught to decelerate and cut well?
00:18:36 — Neurocognitive errors in non-contact injuries
00:22:07 — Common movement patterns behind injuries
00:24:46 — Why deceleration is undertrained
00:29:00 — Sponsor: Physiotutors courses
00:30:00 — Why the best movers are great decelerators
00:31:35 — Tissue loads during braking and cutting
00:34:42 — What good deceleration technique looks like
00:40:11 — Sponsor: Physiotutors membership
00:41:18 — Do extra braking steps reduce efficiency?
00:42:38 — Why symmetry numbers are not enough
00:44:47 — Best field-based testing for multidirectional athletes
00:47:58 — Common late-stage rehab mistakes
00:51:55 — Adding perception and unpredictability to rehab
00:56:06 — One thing to change in sports rehab education
00:57:38 — Key takeaways for physios
00:59:01 — Where to learn more from Bart
01:00:43 — Outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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Reframing Chronic Pain: From Structural Faults to Primary Pain with Bahram Jam
2026/08/05
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Summary
In this episode, physiotherapist Bahram Jam shares his 34 years of experience in understanding and treating chronic pain, emphasizing the importance of shifting from structural fixes to a focus on primary pain and the psychological aspects of pain management. Discover insights on how to better approach persistent pain, debunk common misconceptions, and explore innovative concepts like pain as a musical.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:28 How has your understanding of chronic pain changed over time?
00:04:14 When does pain stop being mainly tissue-driven?
00:06:27 If tissues have healed, why can pain still persist?
00:08:43 What do patients with persistent pain get told that makes things worse?
00:11:36 Sponsored segment: Physiotutors courses
00:13:20 How do you explain persistent pain in a way that helps patients move forward?
00:16:32 What is primary pain versus secondary pain?
00:22:43 What are you trying to figure out in a first consultation?
00:25:17 How do you handle resistance when patients are skeptical?
00:27:09 Sponsored segment: Physiotutors membership
00:29:05 Where do clinicians go wrong with persistent low back pain?
00:39:04 How do you approach patients who have tried everything?
00:41:49 How do you explain MRI findings that do not match symptoms?
00:45:44 What makes TMJ disorders tricky and what do clinicians miss?
00:49:29 Sponsored segment: WriteUpp
00:51:04 What exercise approach do you use for persistent low back pain?
00:57:08 How do you balance manual therapy, exercise, and education?
00:58:41 How important are lifestyle factors in persistent pain?
01:01:42 What is your one piece of advice for clinicians treating persistent pain?
01:06:18 Is there anything else you want to add?
01:08:08 Outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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Unlocking the Power of Breath: The Techniques Every Physio Should Know with Steven Zwerink
2026/07/02
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Summary
This episode explores the critical role of breathing in health, recovery, and performance, featuring Steven Zwerink, a breathing physiologist. Discover how dysfunctional breathing impacts the body, the importance of CO2 over oxygen, and practical techniques for physiotherapists to incorporate breathing exercises into their practice.
Guest
Steven is a breathing physiologist and the founder of the Dutch Institute for Breathing Physiology. His work focuses on how breathing influences health, recovery, and performance.
His interest in breathing started after a serious cycling accident, where he experienced a long and difficult recovery with symptoms like a concussion and whiplash. Traditional approaches only got him so far, but when he started working with breathing, things began to change. That experience became the foundation of his work today.
With a background in elite sports and extensive training in different breathing methods, Steven now works with physiotherapists, healthcare professionals, and athletes. His goal is to make breathing practical, evidence-informed, and clinically applicable.
Chapters:
00:00:00 Introduction to breathing in physiotherapy
00:01:17 Steven Zwerink's accident and recovery journey
00:07:57 Sponsor: Physiotutors membership and learning platform
00:09:04 Dysfunctional breathing, CO2, and nasal vs mouth breathing
00:16:38 Why nasal breathing can feel difficult
00:20:26 Early-life habits, jaw development, and airway problems
00:24:38 Sponsor: Physiotutors courses
00:25:39 Why breathing matters in everyday physio practice
00:31:45 How to assess when breathing is part of the problem
00:36:05 Three practical breathing techniques for therapists
00:42:26 Box breathing dosage and workplace applications
00:46:23 Advanced breath control and prolonged exhale training
00:50:55 Coherent breathing and nervous system regulation
00:50:54 Sponsor: WriteUp practice management software
00:52:30 When breathing is complementary vs primary treatment
00:56:46 Sleep-disordered breathing, recovery, and injury risk
00:59:14 Clinical case: post-COVID recovery with breathing work
01:01:34 Mistakes to avoid when adding breathwork to physio
01:04:20 Key myth, nervous system regulation, and therapist takeaways
01:06:13 Diaphragm, psoas, and overlooked physical links
01:08:11 Where to find Steven and final outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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Why Cervicogenic Dizziness Is a Misleading Diagnosis with Firat Kesgin
2026/06/03
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Summary
In this episode, Firat Kesgin, founder of the German Institute for Vestibular Rehabilitation, discusses the controversial topic of cervicogenic dizziness. He challenges the validity of this diagnosis, arguing that dizziness often associated with neck pain and limited cervical mobility should not be considered a distinct disorder. Kesgin references the Barani Society's stance, which suggests that the connection between cervical issues and dizziness lacks high-quality evidence. He explains that patients with vestibular disorders often restrict head movement, leading to neck problems over time, which can be mistaken for cervicogenic dizziness.Kesgin emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and the risks of relying on exclusion-based diagnoses. He highlights the need for specialized knowledge in vestibular disorders to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatments. The discussion also touches on the psychological aspects of dizziness, comparing it to chronic pain conditions where the central nervous system plays a significant role. Kesgin advocates for a more comprehensive understanding of vestibular disorders and cautions against simplistic mechanical explanations for complex symptoms.
Guest
Firat is the founder of the German Institute for Vestibular Rehabilitation and has been teaching postgraduate courses throughout Europe. His work focuses on helping clinicians better understand and treat patients with dizziness and balance disorders.
Alongside his clinical and teaching work, Firat is currently pursuing a PhD on the standardization of BPPV testing and the implementation of structured vestibular rehab programs in outpatient care.
Chapters
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:22 Why "cervical dizziness" isn't a valid diagnosis
00:03:36 Neck pain/limited ROM as consequences of vestibular issues
00:04:26 Sponsor: WriteUpp
00:06:00 Temporal link to neck pain doesn't prove causation
00:08:15 Does treating the neck fix dizziness? Short-term vs long-term
00:10:51 Risks of diagnosis by exclusion
00:12:24 Diagnostic gaps in routine ENT practice
00:14:20 No specific test: is that enough to reject it?
00:16:59 Vestibular migraine vs "cervical dizziness"
00:20:51 Sponsor: Physiotutors Premium
00:21:27 Common mislabels: BPPV, hypofunction, and 3PD
00:25:45 Cervical proprioception: acute vs chronic relevance
00:32:32 Interpreting cervical torsion and SPNT tests
00:36:53 Sponsor: Physiotutors Courses
00:37:55 Parallels with chronic low back pain
00:38:41 Why the research persists and biomechanical bias
00:45:19 Clinical guidance for dizzy patients with neck pain
00:46:54 Myth-busting: negative ENT and psychology factors
00:49:23 Closing thoughts
00:50:33 Where to find Firat
00:51:19 Outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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Unveiling Fascia: The Body's Hidden Connective System with Karl Jacobs
2026/04/30
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Summary
In this episode, Karl Jacobs, a renowned anatomist and educator, explores the complex world of fascia—its structure, function, and clinical significance. Discover how fascia influences movement, pain, and tissue adaptability, and learn about the latest research and practical insights for clinicians.
Guest
Karl is an accredited anatomist, presently working at the Department of Medical Biology, Section Clinical Anatomy & Embryology of the University of Amsterdam. As an anatomist, his area of special interest is the functional anatomy of the musculoskeletal system, head and neck region and Karl has a particular focus on fascia. He graduated with merit for his MSc Functional and Clinical Anatomy at the University of Birmingham (United Kingdom) in 2017; and wrote his final dissertation on the embryological, histological, physiological, and morphological aspects of the fascial system.
Chapters
00:00:00 Intro & guest bio
00:01:34 Path from physio to fascia
00:02:54 What is fascia?
00:03:51 Why fascia was overlooked
00:04:59 Fascia in movement & force transmission
00:06:06 Common oversimplifications
00:06:55 Fascia's role in stability
00:07:52 Fascia, nociception & pain
00:10:52 Sponsor: Physiotutors Courses
00:11:50 Continuity vs predictability
00:12:50 Can we diagnose fascial issues?
00:14:26 Do therapies change fascia?
00:16:47 "Releasing" fascia vs influencing biology
00:17:40 Sponsor: WriteUpp practice software
00:19:19 How adaptable is fascia?
00:21:12 Imaging fascia with ultrasound
00:22:41 Adhesions and layer gliding
00:24:17 How dissection changes clinicians' views
00:25:08 Lifestyle, load, and fascia
00:26:22 Sponsor: Physiotutors Premium
00:26:59 What "better" fascia means (function-specific)
00:28:08 Where the field is heading
00:29:08 Clinical takeaway
00:31:10 Where to find Karl
00:31:28 Courses: Fascia in a Nutshell & Discovering Fascia
00:32:38 Outro
Bonus Material
Discovering Fascia Online Course
Fascia in a Nutshell Masterclass
Anatomy Insight Institute
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Strength Training for Healthy Aging: Insights from Andreas Delaere
2026/04/01
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Summary
In this episode of the Physiotutors podcast, Andreas Delaere discusses the critical role of physiotherapy in promoting healthy aging. He emphasizes the importance of prevention, strength training, and power training for older adults, while also addressing common mistakes made in their treatment. The conversation explores the hallmarks of aging, the significance of sleep in rehabilitation, and effective strategies for tracking progress and overcoming barriers to adherence. Andreas advocates for a holistic approach to physiotherapy, focusing on empowering patients and maintaining their functional independence.
Guest
Andreas Delaere is a physiotherapist, scientific researcher, and co-owner of Praktijk ROBUUST in Merchtem, Belgium. He combines clinical practice with research, with a strong focus on prevention, muscle health, strength training, and sarcopenia in older adults. Since 2015, he's been connected to the VUB, has contributed to multiple scientific publications, and to the Belgian Sarcopenia Guideline validated by CEBAM. Andreas also has an extra expertise in sleep and completed training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, CBT-I.
Chapters
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:32 Why focus on prevention?
00:03:15 Healthy aging and missed aspects
00:06:21 Twelve aging hallmarks?
00:10:48 Sponsor: Physiotutors courses
00:13:01 Recognizing sarcopenia
00:17:13 Common muscle-building mistakes
00:22:06 Strength versus power differences
00:25:19 Safe power training for elders
00:27:42 Non-negotiable movements, adaptations
00:34:23 Sponsor: WriteUpp software
00:35:58 Programming variables and frequency
00:40:40 Tracking progress and mismatches
00:42:27 Barriers and boosting adherence
00:46:25 Handling passive-treatment seekers
00:50:17 Strength-function translation issues
00:51:55 Sleep's role and myths
00:58:20 Sponsor: Physiotutors membership
00:59:16 When to refer sleep issues
01:01:01 Three actions for this week
01:02:10 Controversial view on training
01:04:56 Contact info & Outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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Patellar Tendinopathy with Ebonie Rio
2026/03/04
Summary
In this conversation, Ebonie Rio, a physiotherapist and researcher, discusses the complexities of patellar tendinopathy, including its causes, myths, and effective rehabilitation strategies. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the condition as an overload issue, the need for accurate diagnosis, and the role of strength training in prevention and recovery. Ebonie also highlights the significance of motor control and coordination in managing tendon pain, and the necessity of clear communication among athletes, coaches, and clinicians for optimal outcomes.
Check out the Rehabilitendon App: http://rehabilitendon.com.au/
Guest
Ebonie Rio is a physiotherapist and researcher from La Trobe University in Australia. She holds a PhD in tendon pain and has a background that includes a Masters in Sports Physiotherapy and two bachelor degrees. Her clinical work spans some of the top performance environments in the world. She has worked with the Australian Institute of Sport, the Australian Ballet Company and Ballet School, pro football with Melbourne Heart, the Victorian Institute of Sport, and several major events including the Commonwealth Games, the Vancouver Winter Olympics, the Singapore Youth Olympics and the London Paralympics. She also spent more than a year on tour with Disneys The Lion King.
Ebonie has published widely on tendon pain, motor control, load, and rehab, with a special focus on patellar tendinopathy.
Chapters
00:00:00 - Intro: Ebonie Rio (background + welcome)
00:01:02 - Explaining patellar tendinopathy in simple terms (athlete-friendly)
00:02:47 - Biggest myths in patellar tendinopathy (imaging, diagnosis, puberty)
00:04:20 - Why "young jumping men" are most affected (risk factors + load profile)
00:06:06 - Misdiagnosis: patellar tendinopathy vs patellofemoral pain
00:07:15 - What changed most in tendon pain research (and clinical thinking)
00:08:27 - What clinicians still underrate in tendon rehab (getting strong enough)
00:10:16 - Sponsor: PhysioTutors Premium Membership
00:11:12 - Why weakness increases tendon overload (load distribution + performance)
00:12:06 - Where tendon research is heading (better diagnosis + better outcomes)
00:14:01 - Key assessment questions + progressive load testing approach
00:18:43 - Morning stiffness, night pain, and 24-hour response (diagnostic clues)
00:20:09 - Quad tendon vs patellar tendon: does it matter for rehab choices?
00:21:46 - Isometrics debate: what people misunderstand about pain relief
00:26:43 - What is "peritendin" and why it matters (especially in Achilles)
00:28:13 - How to diagnose peritendin vs tendinopathy (progressive load patterns)
00:31:53 - Peritendin treatment options (incl. Hirudoid + Voltaren discussion)
00:34:07 - Sponsor: Writeup (practice management software)
00:35:42 - Tendon rehab plan overview: in-season management vs full rehab
00:40:57 - Rehab strength targets + objective markers (leg press, calf, leg extension)
00:42:33 - Measuring the 24-hour response (decline squat vs hop testing)
00:43:02 - Spanish squat vs wall squat: why Spanish squat wins
00:44:19 - Heavy vs fast loading: why rate of loading matters
00:45:11 - Sponsor: PhysioTutors Courses
00:46:32 - Spring phase progression (energy storage + return-to-sport build-up)
00:50:15 - When is an athlete "cleared" to return to sport?
00:51:16 - Motor control + tendon pain: what changes and why it matters
00:53:47 - Metronome training: how to use it clinically (60 bpm setup)
00:55:17 - Managing flare-ups before major events (short-term strategies)
00:58:16 - Meds and injections: ibuprofen, pain relief, and why caution matters
00:59:30 - Key messages to coaches + athletes (performance mindset + heavy is safe)
01:01:08 - Final takeaways: diagnosis confidence + avoiding imaging traps
01:02:16 - Where to find Ebonie + her rehab app (Rehabilitendin)
01:03:18 - Outro: where to listen, app languages, transcript, and review request
Sponsors
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Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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Conquering Burnout: Strategies for Physiotherapists with WriteUpp
2026/02/18
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Summary
In this episode of the Physiotutors podcast, we discuss the pervasive issue of burnout among physiotherapists, focusing on the business and operational challenges that contribute to this phenomenon. Joined by Claire Braham and Anna Bunch, experts in practice management and virtual assistance, the conversation delves into the daily realities of running a physiotherapy practice. They highlight that burnout often stems not just from long hours or difficult patients, but from the overwhelming mental load, inefficient admin systems, and the constant feeling of being behind. Claire and Anna share insights on how these factors can lead to emotional fatigue and ultimately impact both personal and professional lives. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs of burnout, such as feeling constantly behind or lacking the capacity to manage tasks that once felt manageable. Claire and Anna provide practical solutions, including the implementation of effective systems and boundaries, to help clinicians regain control over their workload. They stress the need for clinicians to prioritize their well-being and consider outsourcing administrative tasks to alleviate stress and improve overall practice efficiency.
Guests
Clare is a Business Development Representative at WriteUpp, a practice management software used by many healthcare professionals. Her background is in operations, team leadership, and private practice support. She spends her time helping clinics get more organised, save time, and reduce stress around things like compliance, admin, and patient experience.
Anna Bunch is a Virtual Assistant who specialises in supporting psychologists and therapists. Since 2019, she has worked closely with private healthcare practices to improve systems, workflows, and daily operations. She also supports and mentors other VAs who work in this space.
Chapters
00:00:00 Intro
00:01:53 Burnout in daily practice?
00:04:44 Early signs of burnout?
00:08:55 Sponsor: WriteUpp
00:10:30 Constant on-mode impact?
00:16:55 Draining vs energizing patients
00:18:20 Over-responsibility problem
00:21:00 Clinicians hating admin
00:27:11 Sponsor: Physiotutors Premium
00:28:15 Insurance documentation pressure
00:30:30 Better systems for admin?
00:32:06 Tools and human support
00:36:35 Too many tools?
00:39:13 Powerful yet simple systems
00:43:35 Sponsor: Physiotutors Courses
00:44:51 One realistic change now?
00:50:15 Anything we missed?
00:52:09 Contact Details & Outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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(Dutch Episode) When Passion and Reality Collide - Quitting Physiotherapy with Arjan Elshof
2026/02/04
Note: This episode was recoreded in Dutch and can be listened to in English and other languages on the Physiotutors App. The next episode will be in English again!
Summary
In this episode, we discuss the journey of Ajan Elshof, a former physiotherapist who transitioned to a care-intensive advisor role. We explore the reasons behind his departure from physiotherapy, including changing perspectives on care, the challenges of practice management, and the relationship between physiotherapists and insurers. Ajan shares insights on the future of physiotherapy, the importance of innovation, and the need for collaboration in the healthcare sector.
Chapters
00:00:00 Intro and the big question: why does a passionate physiotherapist leave the profession?
00:03:42 Why physiotherapy was chosen: sports background, injuries, and early motivation
00:05:13 Workload, balance, and no burnout
00:06:40 Sponsor: Premium membership
00:07:17 From patient care to management: views on efficient, hybrid care and the right care in the right place
00:10:24 Overtreatment vs insured sessions: ethics and clinic policy
00:12:06 Ambition, ownership, and scale of impact
00:14:27 The purchasing plan: from the first years to the concrete process
00:16:09 Why the purchasing failed and business lessons learned, market fit, agreements, transition period
00:19:17 Considered paths, education, research, own practice, and the choice for a health insurer to increase impact
00:22:29 Sponsor: WriteUpp practice management software
00:24:20 Low rates, productivity, and admin work: the health insurer's view
00:27:29 Relationship between health insurer and therapist: shared goal and trust
00:30:53 New role at Zilveren Kruis: tasks and the value of a physio background
00:33:23 Clinic vs office: differences in workday, focus, and downtime
00:36:20 How do we keep passionate professionals? Perspective, career paths, and regional primary care cooperation
00:37:43 Sponsor: Physiotutors online courses
00:39:18 Career outlook and conditions for a possible return
00:41:21 Advice to the next generation, including his own children, about physiotherapy
00:42:30 Closing message: working together toward sustainable, accessible, local care
00:44:15 Closing
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Bonus Material
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The role of exercise in oncology with Nele Adriaenssens, Nirit Rotem, Grainne Sheill
2026/01/15
Summary
This podcast explores the critical role of exercise therapy in oncology, highlighting its importance in cancer treatment, rehabilitation, and survivorship. Experts discuss the evolution of exercise in oncology, current practices, and innovative trials that examine the interactions between exercise and chemotherapy. The conversation also addresses the unique challenges faced by patients with head and neck cancer and the significance of tailored exercise programs in improving patient outcomes. This conversation delves into the critical role of exercise in cancer care, highlighting patient barriers, the importance of personalized exercise programs, and the need for better integration of physiotherapy in oncology. The speakers discuss the life-saving benefits of exercise, the challenges faced in clinical practice, and the necessity of addressing patient fears and misconceptions about exercise. They emphasize the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals to ensure consistent messaging and support for cancer patients. Looking ahead, they advocate for more research, education, and advocacy to improve exercise oncology practices globally.
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Guests
Prof. Dr. Nele Adriaenssens Prof. Dr. Nele Adriaenssens from the Vrije Universiteit Brussel is an associate professor and leads the Rehabilitation Research group, focusing on cancer rehabilitation and exercise oncology, with a special interest in side effects of chemotherapy and immunotherapy and how exercise can help. She also coordinates cancer rehabilitation and survivorship at the University Hospital in Brussels and has been a key figure in building cancer rehab services and research infrastructure there.
Dr. Grainne Sheill Dr. Grainne Sheill, clinical specialist physiotherapist in cancer rehabilitation at St James's Hospital in Dublin. Grainne leads work on exercise for people treated for head and neck cancer, looking at the barriers they face and how group based programs can support recovery, fitness and daily function after treatment.
Nirit Rotem She is the head of the physiotherapy department at Tel Aviv Souraski Medical Center. She is a physiotherapist, educator and long standing leader in national and international physiotherapy bodies, with a strong focus on cancer care, exercise prescription and raising standards of practice and policy.
Time Stamps
00:00:00 - Intro and guest lineup: Exercise therapy in oncology overview
00:01:36 - Why is exercise part of cancer treatment, not just an extra?
00:04:04 - What "exercise" means in cancer care: cardio, strength, or both?
00:05:32 - How the role of exercise in oncology has changed since 2008–2009
00:08:42 - Sponsor: PhysioTutors Premium Membership (ad)
00:09:35 - Policy and health system view: Where oncology rehab stands and gaps
00:12:40 - How drugs/side effects shape exercise plans (exercise–pharmacology examples)
00:16:56 - PAPTOX and FORX trials: What's new vs classic cancer rehab studies
00:20:45 - Exercise goals in palliative care and oncogeriatrics
00:24:17 - Are palliative/fragile patients motivated to exercise?
00:25:30 - Sponsor: WriteUpp practice management (ad)
00:27:05 - Head & neck cancer: Why this group is different and challenging for activity
00:31:34 - National survey findings: Top barriers and surprises to exercise post–head & neck cancer
00:33:49 - Key exercise-oncology messages still missing in day-to-day practice
00:37:33 - Turning position statements into simple clinical routines
00:41:41 - Global online oncology course: Is it available yet?
00:42:15 - Sponsor: PhysioTutors online courses (ad)
00:43:10 - Screening and triage: Group vs 1:1 vs medical referral
00:46:16 - Addressing fear: How to talk about risk and safety to keep patients engaged
00:49:55 - One belief to change among doctors/nurses about exercise in cancer care
00:53:19 - Ten-year outlook: Priorities for research, education, and implementation
00:56:13 - Final messages: Getting physios on board and entry-level competencies
00:58:54 - Congress announcement and closing remarks
Bonus Material
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From Core to Kick: The Pelvis as the Missing Link in Hamstring and Groin Injuries ft. Nick van der Horst
2025/12/05
Summary
In this conversation, Dr. Nick van der Horst, a sports physiotherapist, discusses the significant impact of hamstring and groin injuries in football, emphasizing the importance of pelvic control in injury prevention and rehabilitation. He highlights the prevalence of these injuries, the role of eccentric strength training, and the need for comprehensive screening and assessment methods. Dr. van der Horst shares insights on how to modify pelvic posture and control during rehabilitation, providing practical advice for integrating these concepts into injury prevention programs. The discussion also covers the relationship between pelvic mechanics and performance optimization, making it clear that understanding these factors is crucial for effective rehabilitation and injury prevention in sports.
Guest
Dr. Nick van der Horst is a sports physiotherapist and rehabilitation specialist with deep expertise in football medicine. He's currently part of the medical staff at PSV Eindhoven's first team, where he focuses on on- and off-field rehab, return-to-play strategies, and injury prevention.Nick earned his PhD at UMC Utrecht with a thesis on preventing hamstring injuries in male soccer players. Over the years, he has worked with organizations like the KNVB and Go Ahead Eagles, and he's the founder and CEO of SoccerDoc, a platform dedicated to improving football medicine through research, education, and clinical care.His work centers on maximizing football performance by reducing injury burden and creating evidence-based, player-centered rehab and prevention programs.
Timestamps
00:00:00 Intro and guest bio
00:01:00 How big are hamstring and groin injury problems (incidence and time loss)?
00:04:04 Clarifying the topic: SI joint issues vs pelvic position/control
00:04:42 Why are pelvic control and positioning key for hamstring and groin pain?
00:12:44 Sponsor: PhysioTutors Premium Membership
00:15:28 Screening and assessment: Go-to markers for pelvic posture/control issues
00:19:27 Do you need motion capture or other equipment to assess pelvic control?
00:22:17 How do you differentiate pelvic-mechanics-related hamstring issues from tissue-specific or neural problems?
00:27:12 Common lumbopelvic patterns in recurrent hamstring and groin injuries
00:25:38 Sponsor: WriteUpp Practice Management
00:37:54 Groin pain: Is pelvic posture/control a cause or a consequence?
00:41:50 How modifiable is pelvic posture and control?
00:44:51 Rehab progression: Early vs late stages when focusing on pelvic control
00:48:54 Do you use basic core/lumbopelvic exercises (bird dog, dead bug, pelvic tilts)?
00:52:13 Have improvements in pelvic control reduced hamstring/groin injuries in practice?
00:54:46 Sponsor: PhysioTutors Online Courses
00:56:13 Case experience: Moments that shifted perspective on pelvic role
01:03:08 Practical advice for integrating pelvic control into prevention/rehab in football
01:05:49 Where to find Dr. Nick van der Horst
01:06:29 Outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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An Introduction to Neurocentric Training with Jannik Schuster
2025/11/03
Summary
In this podcast episode, neuroathletic performance and pain coach Jannik Schuster discusses neurocentric training, a method focusing on the brain and nervous system to enhance performance and alleviate pain. Schuster explains how he discovered this approach through personal experience with injuries and highlights its effectiveness in reducing inflammation and pain. He defines neurocentric training as targeting brain and nervous system interactions to improve performance, distinguishing it from traditional training methods that focus on biomechanical structures. Schuster emphasizes the significance of understanding the nervous system's role in pain and movement limitations, advocating for individualized approaches to address specific nervous system needs. He also discusses the integration of neurocentric training with traditional practices, the impact of visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive inputs, and the potential for neurocentric training to become more prevalent in both athletic and therapeutic settings. The conversation underscores the importance of neuroplasticity and suggests resources for those interested in exploring neurocentric training further.
Guest
Jannik Schuster — Neuroathletic Performance and Pain Coach, M.Sc. in Sports Science, educator, and former elite footballer. After training in the youth academy of FC Augsburg and the professional squad of FC Schweinfurt, Jannik discovered neurocentric training as a breakthrough method to unlock performance, prevent injury, and resolve pain. Educated through Z-Health and grounded in sports science, he now helps others apply neuro-based strategies for pain-free movement and optimal function
Content
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:47 Yannick's Background and Introduction to Neuroathletic Training
00:02:49 Definition and Differentiation of Neurocentric Training
00:04:36 Scientific Foundation of Neurocentric Training
00:08:39 Common Misconceptions in Neurotraining
00:10:23 Role of the Nervous System in Pain and Movement Limitations
00:11:55 Neurocentric Training in Rehab
00:14:42 Assessment and Testing in Neurocentric Training
00:21:46 Role of Visual, Vestibular, and Proprioceptive Inputs
00:25:19 Typical Neuroperformance Training Session
00:28:17 Effects Observed in Performance-Oriented Athletes
00:31:01 Athlete Feedback on Neuro Training
00:35:38 Prevalence of Neurocentric Training in Elite Sports
00:37:29 Integration with Traditional Training and Therapy
00:40:08 Incorporating Neurocentric Elements in Daily Work
00:47:03 Striking Changes Observed Through Neuro Training
00:49:23 Resources for Learning About Neurocentric Training
00:51:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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Beyond Whiplash: Modern Physiotherapy for Prolonged Post-Concussion Symptoms with Melvin Pitz and Cornel Tol
2025/10/01
Summary
In this episode, Melvin Pitz and Cornel Tol from the Headache, Pain, and Concussion Training Institute (HPCTI) delve into the intricacies of managing concussions and post-concussion symptoms. They advocate for using the term "prolonged post-concussion symptoms" over "mild traumatic brain injury" to reduce the nocebo effect associated with the latter.
The discussion highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary and biopsychosocial approach in diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the significance of early intervention and patient education. Melvin and Cornel share insights into diagnostic criteria, the impact of framing on patient outcomes, and the gaps in current practices, particularly in the Netherlands. They stress the need for physiotherapists to be proactive in education and networking to bridge the knowledge gap in concussion management.
The episode also touches on the neurophysiological aspects of concussion, the shortcomings of monodisciplinary approaches, and the potential of a treatable traits approach for better patient outcomes. Listeners are encouraged to rethink the role of physiotherapy and consider the broader implications of prolonged symptoms, including psychological and social factors. The episode provides practical advice for physiotherapists and healthcare professionals on how to improve their practice and patient care in the context of concussions.
Guests
Today's guests are Melvin Pitz and Cornel Tol from the HPC-TI — short for Headache, Pain & Concussion Training Institute.
They're on a mission to educate and empower healthcare professionals with cutting-edge, evidence-based strategies to manage headache, pain complaints, and mild traumatic brain injury. With a strong clinical background and a critical view on how care is currently delivered, they're pushing for a multidisciplinary and biopsychosocial approach that actually works — in the clinic, and beyond
Content
00:00 Intro
00:41 Definition of PPCS
03:06 Diagnostic Criteria
06:35 Gaps in recognizing PPCS
09:47 Why patients are misdiagnosed
14:24 Sponsor
15:00 Prognostic Factors to develop prolonged symptoms
18:48 Rethinking Physiotherapists' role in treating PPCS
24:40 Neurophysiology of PPCS
28:28 Why monodisciplinary approaches fail
33:12 Diagnosis & Decisionmaking
35:48 Sponsor
37:04 Biggest pitfalls
38:44 Treatment
50:48 Interesting Case Studies
57:38 Return to work/play
01:03:21 Opinion on high-impact sports
01:05:25 Myths to bust
01:06:26 Closing thoughts
01:07:37 Contact info & Outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
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Foot First: Rethinking Intrinsic Strength & Injury Rehab with Dr. Sue Mayes
2025/09/01
Summary
In this episode, we welcome Dr. Sue Mayes, a distinguished physiotherapist and senior lecturer at La Trobe University, who is renowned for her expertise in injury prevention and rehabilitation, particularly in elite dancers and athletes. Dr. Mayes discusses the significance of foot intrinsic muscles, focusing on their role in ballet and sports injuries. She explains common issues like hallux valgus and foot arch control, emphasizing the importance of intrinsic muscle strengthening to enhance performance and reduce injury risk.
Dr. Mayes shares insights into effective foot strengthening techniques, such as banded exercises and stair running, while highlighting the limitations of traditional exercises like toe doming. She also explores the impact of footwear, advocating for a gradual adaptation to minimalist shoes. The conversation covers the role of intrinsic muscles in chronic conditions like ankle instability and shin splints, and the need for a comprehensive approach that includes calf and hip strengthening.
Listeners gain practical tips on creating foot strengthening programs, selecting appropriate exercises, and understanding the nuances of rehabilitation across different sports. Dr. Mayes underscores the importance of balancing foot strength and emphasizes the need for proper footwear to prevent stress fractures. The episode concludes with a call to acknowledge the lateral foot muscles and their role in distributing load effectively.
Content
00:00 Intro
01:01 What are Foot Intrinsics?
01:40 Most common foot/ankle injuries in Ballet
02:20 Hallux Valgus
04:30 Taping for Hallux Valgus
06:12 Quantifying intrinsic muscle strength
08:03 Foot Arch
09:45 Sponsor
10:35 The dome exercise
12:30 Common misconceptions
13:43 Footwear
17:40 Intrinsic Foot muscle weakness as risk factor
19:50 Performance Impact
22:25 Building a foot strengthening program
27:32 Sponsor
28:44 Strength program progression
30:50 Balance program
32:43 Focus on Abductor Hallucis
34:42 What else to focus on?
36:15 Plyometrics
38:25 Footballer are like Ballerinas
41:12 What clinicians should know about feet
42:26 Sue's closing thoughts
44:10 Contact info & Outro
Bonus Material
Download the referenced transcript including PubMed Links and a high-resolution infographic on this episode as part of your Physiotutors membership on the Physiotutors App.
Download the Free App now
Follow our Podcast on:
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Mr. Coleman 👷🏾👨🏾🎓🤴🏿 2022/06/24
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I watch the YouTube videos as well as Twitters and Instagram social media! I’m just subscribing to the podcast, please post more of these maybe at lea...