Podcast
The Sports Docs Podcast
Hosted by SportsDocsPod · EN
Sports medicine is a constantly evolving field, with hundreds of new articles published each month on the topic. This ever-growing wealth of information can make it challenging to stay updated on the newest approaches and techniques, and to know which data should actually change your practice. Join orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Catherine Logan and Dr. Ashley Bassett, as they chat about the most recent developments in sports medicine and dissect through all the noise.
On each episode of The Sports Docs podcast, the hosts will tackle a specific injury – from ACL tears to shoulder instability – and review the top research from various high-impact journals that month, including The American Journal of Sports Medicine, Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic and Related Surgery, Sports Health, Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and more. The Sports Docs will also be joined by experts in the field of sports medicine – orthopedic surgeons, nonoperative sports medicine specialists, athletes, physical therapists, athletic trainers and others – to provide a fresh and well-rounded perspective based on their unique experiences.
The Sports Docs – Dr. Logan & Dr. Bassett – are friends & former co-residents from the Harvard Combined Orthopaedic Residency Program, who went onto esteemed sports medicine fellowships at The Steadman Clinic and The Rothman Institute, respectively. Dr. Logan practices in Denver, CO, and serves as Team Physician for Men's USA Lacrosse & as a Team Physician for U.S. Ski & Snowboard. Dr. Bassett is the director of the Women’s Sports Medicine Center at the Orthopedic Institute of New Jersey and practices across northern NJ, primarily in Morris and Sussex Counties.
Together, they will bring monthly conversations on how to care for athletes of all ages and levels of play, with a healthy mix of cutting-edge science and real-world application.
31episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
187: Leading the Next Era of Sports Medicine with Corey Parker, MPA, CEO of AOSSM - LIVE at AOSSM 2026
6d ago00:22:15Tap to summarizeThe future of sports medicine isn't shaped solely in the operating room—it is also driven by visionary leadership, collaboration, education, and innovation. Live from the AOSSM Annual Meeting in Seattle, Drs. Catherine Logan and Ashley Bassett sit down with Corey Parker, MPA, the newly appointed CEO of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM), to discuss his vision for one of the world's leading sports medicine organizations.With more than two decades of executive leadership experience in healthcare, academic medicine, and national physician organizations, Corey shares what drew him to AOSSM and how he plans to help the society continue advancing education, research, advocacy, and member engagement in an era of rapid change.The conversation explores how AOSSM is preparing surgeons for emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and biologics, expanding mentorship and leadership opportunities for early-career members, and strengthening collaboration across the multidisciplinary sports medicine team. Corey also discusses the importance of serving both academic and private practice surgeons while ensuring the organization remains innovative, financially strong, and increasingly valuable to its members.Whether you're a resident just beginning your career or a seasoned sports medicine surgeon, this episode offers an inside look at the leadership shaping the future of our specialty.In This Episode Corey Parker's journey to becoming CEO of AOSSM Why AOSSM continues to be a global leader in sports medicine Supporting residents, fellows, and early-career surgeons through mentorship and leadership development Strengthening connections between academic and private practice sports medicine physicians Developing the next generation of leaders within AOSSM Building stronger partnerships across the sports medicine care team Corey's vision for the future of AOSSM and the legacy he hopes to leave Key Takeaways Leadership is essential to advancing sports medicine beyond clinical innovation. Lifelong education and evidence-based guidance remain central to helping surgeons navigate an evolving field. Mentorship and early career engagement are critical investments in the future of the specialty. Collaboration across physicians, therapists, athletic trainers, researchers, and industry drives better patient care. A strong professional society must continue evolving while remaining focused on its mission and its members. About Our GuestCorey Parker brings more than 20 years of progressive executive leadership in healthcare, academic medicine, and national medical societies. He currently serves as Chief Operating Officer of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, where he oversees a complex enterprise of 65 staff and a combined operating budget exceeding $30 million. Previously, he served as Executive Director of Surgical Accreditation at the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, where he led accreditation efforts for orthopedic surgery and other surgical specialties nationwide. Earlier leadership roles within major academic health systems further reflect his expertise in operational excellence, financial stewardship, and large-scale team development.Parker will join the AOSSM professional team on April 6, 2026. He succeeds CEO Greg Dummer, who announced his intent to retire last August. Dummer has served as CEO since July 2016 and will remain with the organization through the 2026 Annual Meeting to support a smooth and successful transitionFollow The Sports Docs Podcast for conversations with leading surgeons, researchers, and innovators who are advancing the field of sports medicine through cutting-edge science, education, and collaboration.https://www.cloganmd.com/https://orthopedicnj.com/physicians/ashley-bassett
Transcribe →186: From Defect to Comeback: Modern Cartilage Treatment Strategies: Dr. Aaron Krych LIVE at AOSSM 2026
2w ago00:23:39Tap to summarizeRecorded live from the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) Annual Meeting in Seattle, Dr. Aaron Krych joins Drs. Catherine Logan and Ashley Bassett for an in-depth discussion on the rapidly evolving field of cartilage restoration. The conversation explores how treatment has shifted from simply filling cartilage defects to restoring the entire knee joint through comprehensive patient evaluation, biologic innovations, and advanced surgical techniques.The Evolution of Cartilage RestorationWhy focal cartilage defects should be viewed as a "whole joint disease"Moving beyond isolated microfractureThe growing importance of correcting alignment, instability, and meniscal deficiencyEarlier intervention in young athletic patients to preserve long-term joint healthUnderstanding Natural HistoryWhy untreated cartilage defects can enlarge over timeRisk factors for lesion progression and development of secondary cartilage injuriesCounseling patients on long-term consequences and timing of interventionModern Treatment AlgorithmsWhy strict size-based algorithms are becoming less relevantPatient-specific factors influencing procedure selection:AgeActivity levelDefect size and locationSubchondral bone involvementPrevious surgeryOverall joint healthDiagnostic EvaluationThe expanding role of advanced MRIWhen diagnostic arthroscopy remains essentialEmerging applications of nano-arthroscopy for:Preoperative lesion evaluationAssessment of graft incorporationEvaluation of persistent postoperative symptomsSingle-Stage Cartilage Restoration TechniquesAutoCartSingle-stage autologous cartilage restorationSurgical technique pearlsCartilage harvest using GraftNet technologyPRP/BMAC augmentationTechnical considerations for successful implantationOsteochondral OptionsWhen bone involvement changes the treatment strategyIndications for:Osteochondral Autograft Transfer (OATS)Fresh Osteochondral Allograft TransplantationChoosing between autograft and allograft techniquesAlignment MattersWhy cartilage restoration cannot succeed in an overloaded compartmentIndications for combining osteotomy with cartilage restorationMedial high tibial osteotomy (HTO)Distal femoral osteotomy (DFO)Benefits of patient-specific instrumentation for osteotomy planning and executionLessons LearnedDr. Krych shares valuable experience on why successful cartilage restoration depends on more than the graft itself.Key factors influencing outcomes include:Proper patient selectionMechanical alignmentKnee stabilityMeniscal integrityPatient commitment to rehabilitationKey TakeawaysCartilage restoration has evolved from treating isolated defects to preserving the entire joint.Modern decision-making is individualized rather than based solely on defect size.Addressing alignment, instability, and meniscal deficiency is often just as important as restoring cartilage.Biologic augmentation and single-stage procedures continue to expand treatment options.Successful outcomes rely on appropriate patient selection and meticulous surgical technique.Featured GuestDr. Aaron Krych is an orthopedic sports medicine surgeon at Mayo Clinic specializing in cartilage restoration, complex knee preservation, ligament reconstruction, and sports-related injuries. His clinical expertise and research have helped shape many of today's modern cartilage restoration strategies.Subscribe to The Sports Docs Podcast for conversations with leaders in orthopedic sports medicine, surgery, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and athlete performance.www.cloganmd.comhttps://orthopedicnj.com/physicians/ashley-bassett
Transcribe →185: Dr. John Kelly and Dr. Matt Fury: Bankart Like Beckham: Mastering Instability Surgery REBOOT (LIVE at AOSSM)
3w ago00:39:59Tap to summarizeToday’s episode is going to focus on surgical management of primary and recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability in athletes. We are joined today by two outstanding guests! Dr. John Kelly is a professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Pennsylvania and Director of Shoulder Sports Medicine at UPenn Ortho. He is Co-director of the Sports Medicine Fellowship and is a team physician for the Philadelphia Union. Dr. Kelly is the former President of the Eastern Orthopaedic Association and Vice President of the Arthroscopy Association of North America.Dr. Matt Fury is an orthopaedic surgeon at the Baton Rouge Orthopaedic Clinic who specializes in sports-related injuries to the shoulder, elbow, and knee as well as complex shoulder conditions. Dr. Fury graduated from LSU Medical School in New Orleans before completing his orthopaedic surgery residency at the Harvard Orthopaedic Residency Program. He then completed specialized fellowship training at the world-renowned Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City. So, without further ado, let’s get to the Exhibit Hall!
Transcribe →184: Dr. Brian Cole on Osteochondral Allograft Reconstruction (REBOOT): Impact of Research on Clinical Practice (LIVE at AOSSM 2024)
4w ago00:34:54Tap to summarizeToday’s episode is going to focus on osteochondral allograft transplantation, and specifically how basic science research can and should impact your clinical practice.We are joined today by Dr. Brian Cole, a Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Chair of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Rush University Medical Center, Chair of Surgery at Rush Oak Park Hospital and Section Head of the Rush Cartilage Restoration Center. He is also a past president of the Arthroscopy Association of North America and a team physician for the Chicago Bulls and Chicago White Sox. So, without further ado, let’s get to the Field House!
Transcribe →183. LIVE (REBOOT) from AOSSM: Challenging Cartilage Injuries (Dr. Sabrina Strickland & Dr. Seth Sherman)
Jun 2900:33:58Tap to summarizeDr. Sabrina Strickland is an associate professor of orthopaedic surgery and an attending surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery . She is active member of many societies and research groups, including the International Cartilage Repair Society and the International Patellofemoral Study Group.Dr. Seth Sherman is the Director of the Sports Medicine Fellowship at Stanford University Orthopaedics and is a Stanford University Football team physician. He is Chairman of the AAOS Sports Medicine/Arthroscopy committee and is also a member of the International Patellofemoral Study Group.Both Dr. Strickland and Dr. Sherman publish and lecture extensively on the topic of knee joint preservation, cartilage restoration and specifically patellofemoral cartilage disease - so we’re excited to hear them speak more this topic!We are narrowing the focus of our conversation today to osteotomies. We just did a two-part episode with Dr. Cassandra Lee that tackles all the different cartilage restoration options for the patellofemoral joint. So go check that out if you want to hear more about when to choose OATS vs. OCA vs. MACI. But for today: let’s chat about osteotomies.In this episode, we discuss:What are some key findings to look for on exam and imaging to determine if a realignment osteotomy is needed?We are familiar with the tibial tubercle trochlear groove (TT-TG) measurement, but what is the Sagittal TT-TG (sTT-TG) distance and what does it tell us?How should a tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) be customized to address different areas of cartilage pathology? (Check out our Instagram - @thesportsdocspod - to see different types of TTOs based on location of cartilage lesion and/or presence of instability in the setting of malalignment.)How can the TTO surgical technique be modified to minimize risk of complications when performing a complete tubercle detachment? Image 3 shows four surgical tips for lessening complication risk.There are other osteotomies besides TTO to address patellofemoral pathology — including a derotational distal femoral osteotomy. What are the indications for this procedure?
Transcribe →182: Overtime – Can Exercise Improve PRP? Exploring Exercise-Mobilized Platelet-Rich Plasma
Jun 2200:15:40Tap to summarizeCould something as simple as a 20-minute bike ride improve the quality of platelet-rich plasma?In this episode of Overtime with The Sports Docs, Drs. Ashley Bassett and Catherine Logan explore an intriguing laboratory study examining whether exercise performed immediately before a PRP blood draw can enhance the cellular composition of platelet-rich plasma.As biologic therapies continue to expand throughout sports medicine, optimizing PRP has become increasingly important. While most discussions focus on centrifuge systems, platelet concentrations, leukocyte content, and injection techniques, this study introduces another potential variable: the patient.The authors found that a brief bout of vigorous exercise significantly increased platelet concentrations and mobilized hematopoietic progenitor cells, raising the possibility that exercise could serve as a simple, low-cost strategy to optimize biologic treatments.In This Episode, We Discuss: The fundamentals of PRP and how it works Why PRP variability remains one of the biggest challenges in interpreting the literature Conditions with the strongest evidence supporting PRP: Knee osteoarthritis Lateral epicondylitis Patellar tendinopathy Plantar fasciitis The concept of exercise-mobilized PRP Differences between plasma-based and buffy coat PRP systems Whether higher platelet concentrations actually translate into improved clinical outcomes How this research may influence real-world PRP protocols Study BreakdownStudy Design: Prospective laboratory studyParticipants: 20 healthy volunteers (ages 21–45 years)Exercise Protocol: 5-minute warm-up 20 minutes of cycling Target heart rate: 70–85% of predicted maximum Blood samples were obtained before and immediately after exercise and processed using two PRP systems:ACP System (plasma-based PRP) Angel System (buffy coat PRP) Key FindingsWhole Blood Changes After Exercise Platelet count increased approximately 22% White blood cell count increased approximately 50%ACP System Platelet concentration increased from approximately: 457,000/µL → 562,000/µLAngel System Platelet concentration increased from approximately: 2.95 million/µL → 3.77 million/µL PRP volume increased Hematopoietic progenitor cell concentrations increased significantly Why This MattersThe study suggests that patient physiology before blood collection may significantly influence the final biologic product.A brief exercise session may: Increase platelet yield Mobilize progenitor cells Potentially enhance biologic activity Provide a low-cost method to optimize PRP preparation For clinicians performing biologic injections, exercise may become another controllable variable alongside: PRP preparation system Centrifuge settings Leukocyte concentration Injection technique Clinical Pearls✔ PRP is not a single product. Composition varies substantially between systems.✔ Patient factors may influence PRP quality just as much as centrifuge settings.✔ Twenty minutes of exercise increased platelet concentrations in both PRP systems.✔ Buffy coat systems demonstrated increased progenitor cell concentrations.✔ The clinical significance of these changes remains unknown.The Big QuestionDoes exercise-enhanced PRP actually improve patient outcomes?This study demonstrates changes in laboratory measurements, but it does not tell us whether patients: Heal faster Experience less pain Return to sport sooner Demonstrate better tendon or cartilage healing Future studies are needed to determine: Optimal exercise type Ideal exercise intensity Timing before blood draw Which conditions benefit most Dr. Logan's Clinical PerspectiveAt the Joint Preservation Center, this study has prompted discussions about incorporating pre-injection exercise into PRP protocols. A simple 20-minute cycling session before blood collection may represent a practical strategy to optimize a patient's own biology before treatment.While additional evidence is needed, this concept aligns with the broader goal of maximizing the effectiveness of biologic therapies through thoughtful patient preparation.Take-Home Points Exercise before PRP collection significantly increases platelet concentrations. Short bouts of exercise may mobilize progenitor cells. Patient physiology may influence PRP composition. Exercise represents a low-cost, non-pharmacologic optimization strategy. More research is needed to determine whether these laboratory changes improve clinical outcomes. Resources Mentioned Episode #161: Platelet concentration and outcomes following PRP for lateral epicondylitis Recent Sports Docs episode with Dr. Arianna Gianakos discussing PRP for plantar fasciitis 🎤 Stay Connected🎧 Listen & SubscribeIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyFollow us on InstagramOur Hosts:Ashley Bassett, MD & Catherine Logan, MD, MBA / www.cosportsmedicine.com www.cloganmd.com
Transcribe →181: Overtime – Secondary Injury after ACL Reconstruction in Professional Soccer Players
Jun 1500:17:19Tap to summarizeThe FIFA World Cup and ACL injuries remain one of the most impactful injuries in professional soccer. While much of the discussion around ACL reconstruction focuses on graft choice, rehabilitation, and return-to-play timelines, a new study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine highlights an often-overlooked challenge: secondary muscle injuries after athletes return to competition.In this episode of Overtime with The Sports Docs, Drs. Ashley Bassett and Catherine Logan review the newly published article, "Secondary Muscle Injuries and Performance Decline After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Professional Soccer." The study examines the incidence, timing, and impact of muscle injuries following ACL reconstruction in elite soccer players and explores how these injuries affect performance, playing time, and even market value.The findings reinforce an important principle in sports medicine: return to play is not the finish line—it is only the next phase of recovery.Key Discussion PointsUnderstanding ACL Injuries in SoccerCommon mechanisms of ACL injury in soccerWhy cutting, pivoting, deceleration, and landing place soccer players at particularly high riskThe career implications of ACL injuries in professional athletesACL Reconstruction Graft OptionsBone-Patellar Tendon-Bone (BTB) autograftHamstring tendon autograftQuadriceps tendon autograftAdvantages and disadvantages of each graft choiceWhy allograft tissue is generally avoided in elite athletesModern Return-to-Play Decision MakingMoving beyond time-based return-to-play criteriaStrength testing and limb symmetryHop testing and movement analysisNeuromuscular control assessmentPsychological readiness for sportOngoing graft maturation and biologic healingStudy Review: Secondary Muscle Injuries After ACL ReconstructionThe authors evaluated professional male soccer players from Europe's top leagues who underwent ACL reconstruction between 2020 and 2023 and compared them with matched healthy controls.Key findings included:32.5% of ACL-reconstructed players sustained a secondary muscle injury within one year of return to playOnly 12.5% of matched controls experienced muscle injuriesACL-reconstructed athletes were more than twice as likely to sustain a muscle injury after returnMost Common Secondary InjuriesHamstring strains (42%)Quadriceps strains (32%)Calf injuries (16%)Adductor injuries (11%)Notably, nearly 70% of injuries occurred on the reconstructed side, suggesting persistent deficits may contribute to injury risk.The Highest-Risk WindowOne of the most important findings:Nearly 58% of all secondary muscle injuries occurred between 3 and 6 months after return to competitionThis period may represent a critical vulnerability window when athletes are increasing match exposure, training volume, and competition demands.The Importance of the 9-Month RuleThe strongest predictor of secondary muscle injury was early return to play:Athletes returning before 9 months after ACL reconstruction had nearly a fivefold increased risk of secondary muscle injuryThis study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting delayed, criteria-based return to sport rather than return based solely on time.Performance and Career ImpactPlayers who sustained secondary muscle injuries experienced:Reduced playing timeFewer minutes on the fieldDecreased participation metricsDeclines in overall performanceThe study also demonstrated significant reductions in player market value among athletes who experienced secondary injuries, highlighting the financial and career implications of incomplete recovery.Strengths and Limitations of the StudyStrengthsMatched-control designFocus on elite professional soccer playersInclusion of performance metrics and market value outcomesReal-world relevance for sports medicine clinicians and team physiciansLimitationsRetrospective study designRelatively small sample sizeNo objective rehabilitation data availableNo information on graft typeLack of strength testing, hop testing, or psychological readiness measuresNo workload or GPS tracking dataClinical TakeawaysACL recovery extends well beyond return to competition.Return to play should be viewed as a milestone, not the endpoint.The first 3–6 months after return may represent the highest-risk period for secondary injury.Continued strength training, neuromuscular training, and workload monitoring remain essential after athletes resume competition.Returning before 9 months after ACL reconstruction may substantially increase the risk of secondary muscle injury.Successful ACL recovery is not simply about returning to sport—it is about staying healthy and performing at a high level after return.Article Discussed"Secondary Muscle Injuries and Performance Decline After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Professional Soccer"Published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine (AJSM), 2026.🎤 Stay Connected🎧 Listen & SubscribeIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyFollow us on InstagramOur Hosts:Ashley Bassett, MD & Catherine Logan, MD, MBA / www.cosportsmedicine.com www.cloganmd.comFollow us on Instagram @thesportsdocspod for the latest updates in sports medicine, injury recovery, and athlete performance.
Transcribe →180: Dr. Arianna Gianakos – Plantar Fasciitis in Athletes (Part II)
Jun 800:28:42Tap to summarize🎧 Episode SummaryIn Part II of our discussion on plantar fasciitis, Dr. Ashley Bassett and Dr. Catherine Logan continue their conversation with Dr. Arianna Gianakos, orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon at Yale University. This episode focuses on treatment options for patients who fail initial conservative management, including injection therapies, biologics, and surgical intervention for recalcitrant plantar fasciitis.The discussion highlights the latest evidence supporting platelet-rich plasma (PRP), compares PRP to corticosteroid injections and other nonoperative treatments, and reviews emerging minimally invasive surgical techniques—including nano-arthroscopic plantar fascia release.HighlightsPlatelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) for Plantar FasciitisRecent evidence continues to support the use of PRP for chronic plantar fasciitis.Key findings from a 2024 Level I systematic review and meta-analysis:PRP resulted in significantly greater pain reduction compared to:Corticosteroid injectionsExtracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)Placebo injectionsPRP demonstrated improved functional outcomes as measured by AOFAS scores.Benefits were most apparent in patients with chronic, recalcitrant symptoms.PRP vs Corticosteroid InjectionsCorticosteroid InjectionsAdvantages:Rapid short-term pain reliefWidely availableLow costLimitations:Effects are often temporaryHigher recurrence ratesPotential risks include:Plantar fascia ruptureFat pad atrophyTissue degeneration with repeated injectionsPRPAdvantages:Targets the underlying degenerative processEncourages tissue healing and remodelingMore durable symptom reliefImproved long-term outcomes compared with corticosteroidsChallenges:Higher costLack of standardization in preparation techniquesVariability in platelet concentration and leukocyte contentThe Role of BiologicsA key theme throughout the discussion is that biologics should be viewed as tools to optimize healing rather than miracle cures.Important considerations include:Appropriate patient selectionChronicity of symptomsFailure of structured conservative treatmentRealistic expectations regarding recovery timelinesWhen Is Surgery Appropriate?Fortunately, most patients improve without surgery.Surgical intervention may be considered when:Symptoms persist for 6–12 months or longerConservative treatments have been exhaustedPain continues to significantly limit daily activities, exercise, or athletic participationBefore surgery, patients should typically complete:Stretching and strengthening programsOrthotic managementNight splintsPhysical therapyInjection-based treatments when appropriateNano-Arthroscopic Plantar Fascia ReleaseThe episode concludes with a discussion of a novel nano-arthroscopic plantar fascia release technique recently described in Arthroscopy Techniques.Potential advantages include:Single-portal minimally invasive approachReduced soft tissue disruptionLess postoperative painReduced neurovascular riskEarlier weightbearingFaster return to daily activities and sportSurgical PearlsWhen performing plantar fascia release:Partial release is preferred over complete release.Over-release can alter foot biomechanics and increase lateral column pain.Careful patient selection remains critical.Surgery should be reserved for truly recalcitrant cases.Key TakeawaysPRP demonstrates superior pain relief and functional outcomes compared to corticosteroid injections and placebo in chronic plantar fasciitis.Corticosteroids may provide short-term symptom relief but do not address the underlying degenerative pathology.Most patients improve with nonoperative management and never require surgery.Surgical treatment should be reserved for patients who fail a comprehensive course of conservative care.Nano-arthroscopic plantar fascia release represents an exciting minimally invasive option that may reduce pain, soft tissue injury, and recovery time.Appropriate patient selection and realistic expectations remain essential regardless of treatment choice.Featured GuestDr. Arianna Gianakos – Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon, Yale University; specialist in sports-related foot and ankle injuries, cartilage restoration, and advanced foot and ankle reconstruction.🎤 Stay Connected🎧 Listen & SubscribeIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyFollow us on InstagramOur Hosts:Ashley Bassett, MD & Catherine Logan, MD, MBA / www.cosportsmedicine.com Follow us on Instagram @thesportsdocspod for the latest updates in sports medicine, injury recovery, and athlete performance.
Transcribe →179: Dr. Arianna Gianakos – Plantar Fasciitis in Athletes (Part I)
Jun 200:29:50Tap to summarize🎧 Episode SummaryEpisode Sponsor: BraceLabhttps://bracelab.com/push-med-foot-brace-fp.htmlIn this episode of The Sports Docs Podcast, Dr. Ashley Bassett and Dr. Catherine Logan are joined by Dr. Arianna Gianakos, orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon at Yale University, to discuss one of the most common causes of heel pain in athletes and active adults—plantar fasciitis.The conversation explores the underlying pathology of plantar fasciitis, risk factors that contribute to its development, and the latest evidence supporting conservative treatment strategies. Dr. Gianakos shares practical pearls on patient evaluation, imaging, bracing, orthotics, stretching programs, and physical therapy, helping clinicians navigate an often frustrating condition for both patients and providers.HighlightsUnderstanding Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis is more accurately described as a degenerative fasciosis rather than an inflammatory condition Histologic studies demonstrate: Collagen disorganization Microtears Minimal inflammatory changes Repetitive overload at the plantar fascia origin leads to structural degeneration and loss of elasticity Why Does Morning Pain Occur? Classic "first-step pain" results from overnight shortening of the plantar fascia Initial weightbearing produces a sudden stretch and reloading of the tissue Pain often improves with activity before worsening again later in the day Clinical Evaluation & Imaging Diagnosis is primarily clinical Key examination findings include: Point tenderness at the medial calcaneal tubercle Pain with plantar fascia stretching Assessment of ankle flexibility and calf tightness Imaging considerations: Ultrasound can demonstrate plantar fascia thickening MRI may be useful in chronic or refractory cases Risk Factors for Plantar FasciitisRecent literature suggests several important risk factors: Higher body mass index (BMI) Increased body mass Increased ankle plantarflexion range of motion Surprisingly, some traditionally cited factors may not be as influential as previously believed: Foot structure Limited ankle dorsiflexion These findings suggest that load-related factors may play a larger role than static foot alignment.Bracing & Orthotic ManagementNight Splints Particularly beneficial in chronic plantar fasciitis (>6 months) Help maintain plantar fascia length overnight Can reduce morning pain and stiffness Daytime Orthotics Heel cushions Arch supports Functional plantar fascia braces Custom vs. Prefabricated Orthotics Both are effective for pain relief and symptom improvement Studies show similar short-term outcomes Prefabricated orthotics are often a cost-effective first-line option Custom orthotics may offer improved durability and individualized support Exercise & Physical TherapyHome Exercise Programs Convenient and cost-effective Can achieve outcomes comparable to formal physical therapy when patients are compliant Physical Therapy Benefits Accountability and supervised progression Access to additional modalities: Manual therapy Dry needling Shockwave therapy Soft tissue mobilization Key Exercises for Plantar FasciitisEvidence-based interventions include: Plantar fascia-specific stretching Gastrocnemius stretching Intrinsic foot muscle strengthening Research suggests plantar fascia-specific stretching may be superior to generalized stretching programs for symptom improvement.Key Takeaways Plantar fasciitis is primarily a degenerative condition rather than an inflammatory process. Morning pain results from overnight shortening and reloading of the plantar fascia. Increased body mass and mechanical loading appear to be major contributors to symptom development. Night splints, heel cushions, and arch supports remain valuable first-line treatments. Prefabricated orthotics often perform as well as custom devices while reducing cost. Both supervised physical therapy and home exercise programs can be effective when patients are compliant. Plantar fascia-specific stretching and calf flexibility remain foundational components of treatment. Featured GuestDr. Arianna Gianakos – Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon, Yale University; specialist in sports-related foot and ankle injuries, serving patients ranging from recreational athletes to elite competitors.🎤 Stay Connected🎧 Listen & SubscribeIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review on:Apple PodcastsSpotifyFollow us on InstagramOur Hosts:Ashley Bassett, MD & Catherine Logan, MD, MBA / www.cosportsmedicine.com Follow us on Instagram @thesportsdocspod for the latest updates in sports medicine, injury recovery, and athlete performance.
Transcribe →178. Candace Townley Cox, DPT: ACL Recovery Tips and Tricks - Part I (REBOOT)
May 2500:43:49Tap to summarizeOn today’s episode we’re focusing on rehabilitation of ACL surgery with Candace Townley Cox, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and body movement expert at Evolution Physical Therapy. Today’s discussion will center around tips and tricks to optimize outcomes and some common pitfalls that may hold patients back from a full recovery.We have some great articles for you that contribute well to our conversation on the surgical treatment of knee cartilage disease. As always, links to all of the papers that we discuss on this show can be found on our podcast website.The first article is a level 3 case-control study published in the October 2020 issue of OJSM, titled Anterior Knee Pain After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction. Gustavo Constantino de Campos and his team in Sao Paulo, Brazil retrospectively reviewed the records of 438 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction. Anterior knee pain was reported in 6.2% of cases. Patients who underwent ACL reconstruction with a patellar tendon autograft were 3.4 times more likely to experience anterior knee pain. Also, patients who experienced an extension deficit in the post-op period were also more likely to experience anterior knee pain, with an odds-ratio of 5.3. The authors fund that anterior knee pain was not correlated with patient sex, age or surgical technique.We are joined today by Dr. Candace Townley Cox. Candace is a Colorado native who received her Bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training at Nebraska Wesleyan University. Following undergrad Candace returned to Colorado as a Graduate Assistant Athletic Trainer at Regis University in Denver. There, she earned her Master’s degree in Sports Performance while working specifically with the Women’s Volleyball and Softball teams. Candace continued her education at Regis University earning her Doctorate of Physical Therapy. Since graduating Candace has spent countless hours in Sport Science Labs assessing movement quality, efficiency, as well as bone and muscle performance. As a movement expert, she is able to address the body’s impairments both from a table assessment and from functional movement assessments.
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