Sports Therapy Association Podcast

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Episodes

The Sports Therapy Association Podcast is recorded LIVE every Tuesday at 8pm (UK) on the Sports Therapy Association YouTube channel and Facebook Page, and then uploaded as a podcast. You do not have to be an STA member to attend the live recordings - it is a chance to network with fellow therapists and discuss topics that together help us all move forward as an industry. The goal of the podcast, hosted by Matt Phillips (creator of runchatlive.com), is to deliver to Soft Tissue Therapists of all levels (including massage therapists, sports therapists, physiotherapists, podiatrists, chiropractors, etc.) up to date information on how to be a modern, successful, effective health care practitioner, with a gold star reputation for being able to help people in pain and/or looking for performance gains. The Sports Therapy Association (STA) is a professional representation for Sports Therapists, Sports Injury Therapists and Soft Tissue Therapists. We have worked passionately to develop a truly independent and ethical association that is committed to raising standards across the industry and progressing opportunities for our valued members.

Episodes

Wednesday Mar 26, 2025

Ep234 'Lower Limb Amputees: Stepping Through Adversity' - with Rich Potter, Rich Davies, Carla Bickerstaffe, Jenny Lane

Wednesday Mar 26, 2025

We reach the final part of this month’s four part series on Working with Athletes with Disabilities, in which we are joined by special guests Rich Potter and Rich 'Dickie' Davies – armed forces veterans and single below leg amputees who set world records at the end of last year on their ‘Limb-itless Expedition: Conquering The Himalayas' as the first ever amputees to achieve the half and full length of The Snowman Trek in Bhutan. With them are Sports Therapist Carla Bickerstaffe and Massage Therapist Jenny Lane, both of whom have considerable experience of working with athletes with disabilities.

While discussing the physically and mentally demanding trek, the guests share insights into the rigorous preparations, the role of sports therapy & sports massage, and the importance of self-care in their endeavor. The discussion also touches on the emotional hurdles faced, especially when unforeseen challenges forced Dickie to withdraw, underscoring the human aspect and the relentless spirit of perseverance.

Rich and Dickie’s journey is a testament to human resilience and teamwork, with valuable takeaways for anyone working with or aiming to better understand athletes with disabilities.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:04:38 - Introducing Our Guests
00:06:22 - Rich 'Dickie' Davies shares his history
00:07:32 - Rich Potter shares his history
00:08:28 - Not all amputations in military are combat related
00:10:26 - Carla Bickerstaffe and Jenny Lane at the Invictus Games
00:12:44 - Preparing for the Limbitless Expedition - Soft Tissue Therapy
00:18:20 - The Physiology of a Stump
00:25:54 - Equipping Clients for Self Care
00:30:50 - Phantom Limb Pain
00:39:15 - The Limitless Expedition Challenges
00:43:11 - Facing Adversity and Withdrawal
00:50:55 - Reflections on Support and Funding
01:03:00 - New 'Reflection Series' on The Sports Therapy Association Podcast

Useful Links

Want to join the live recordings?
Episodes of the Sports Therapy Association podcast are recorded live every TUESDAY at 8pm on the Sports Therapy Association YOUTUBE CHANNEL and FACEBOOK page. Everyone is welcome - you do not have to be an STA member! If you cannot join us live, be sure to subscribe to the 'Sports Therapy Association Podcast' on all popular podcast apps to be notified when new episodes are available.

Please Support Our Podcast!
If you appreciate what we do, please take a couple of minutes to leave us a rating & review on Apple Podcasts. It really does make all the difference in helping us reach out to a larger audience. iPhone users you can do this from your phone, Android users you will need to do it from iTunes.

Questions?
Email: matt@thesta.co.uk

Saturday Mar 22, 2025

Ep233 ‘Navigating Injury: Physical & Psychological Support’ with Dan Metcalfe, Nicola Hunt, Dr Katherine Dawson

Saturday Mar 22, 2025

Dan ‘WheelsDan’ Metcalfe was in 2014 left paralysed from the waist down after a motorcycle accident. Four years later, his dreams of Paralympic hand-cycling were ended when he was hit by a car during a 600mile charity bike ride, with only 14 miles to complete. So what did he do? Achieve three scuba diving world records...

In this episode of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, Part 3 our series on 'Working With Athletes With Disabilities', Dan ‘WheelsDan’ Metcalfe shares with us honest & open details about his journey, and gives us an insight into the physical & psychological support he received along the way. With Dan are two specialists who have worked with him: Nicola Hunt, Neurological & Vestibular Physiotherapist, and Dr Katherine Dawson, Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist. Together, they explore the importance of understanding identities, navigating PTSD, and the role of therapeutic alliance in recovery.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:03:51 - Dan Metcalfe: From Injury to Resilience
00:04:55 - Dr Katherine Dawson: Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist
00:10:17 - The Role of Support in Recovery
00:11:10 - Nicola Hunt: Neurological & Vestibular Physiotherapist
00:13:49 - Overcoming PTSD Challenges
00:15:15 - Training for the London Marathon
00:22:49 - Understanding PTSD
00:28:39 - The Impact of Physical Activity
00:37:59 - Discovering Woodturning
00:46:07 - Dan Metcalfe World Records in Diving
00:54:57 - The Complexities of The Word 'Inspiring'
00:58:20 - Future Goals and Diving World Records
01:02:40 - Raising Money For Prostate Cancer Research
01:02:30 - Need for Funding & Media Support During Record Attempts, Not Just After
01:04:22 - First Person In A Wheelchair To Complete Tough Mudder
01:04:40 - Eve Metcalfe: Alpine Experience 2025 To Raise Money For Spinal Research
01:07:20 - Concussion Courses With Nicola Hunt (Discount For STA Members)
01:08:30 - Dr Katherine Dawson & Virtual Reality Software For Recovery From Brain Trauma
01:10:10 - Details of Part 4 In This Series

Useful Links

Friday Mar 14, 2025

Ep.232 ‘Invictus Games: Resilience & Camaraderie’ with Sam May, Gemma Barnes, Carla Bickerstaffe, Jenny Lane

Friday Mar 14, 2025

The Invictus Games is an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans, with adaptive sports to promote recovery, rehabilitation, and respect for those who serve. In this episode of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, Part 2 our series on 'Working With Athletes With Disabilities', we are joined by two of this year's Team UK competitors, Sam May & Gemma Barnes who, together with Sports therapist Carla Bickerstaffe & Massage Therapist Jenny Lane, give us a hugely valuable insight into being part of the Invictus Games, from the perspective of a competitor and as a member of the therapy support team.

This episode emphasizes the therapeutic power of sport in recovery and the vital role of therapists in supporting athletes' physical and emotional journeys. Join us as we uncover the stories of resilience, camaraderie, and triumph over adversity, and learn how these games are not just about winning medals but also about healing and personal growth. Tune in to gain insights into working with athletes with disabilities and explore how the support of attentive therapists like Carla and Jenny can spark remarkable transformations.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:02:40 - Meet the Guests: Sam May, Gemma Barnes, Carla Bickerstaffe & Jenny Lane
00:04:24 - Understanding the Invictus Games
00:07:01 - The Journey of Recovery
00:09:24 - The Role of Sports Therapy
00:12:17 - Service and Identity
00:14:17 - Working with the Invictus Team
00:18:30 - Therapist Selection Process Insights
00:20:21 - Skills of the Medical Team
00:24:15 - Challenges Faced as a Therapist
00:25:45 - Emotional Resilience
00:28:17 - Transitioning Back to Reality
00:31:29 - Reflections on the Experience
00:41:08 - The Journey Beyond Medals
00:42:02 - Memorable Moments from the Games
00:46:08 - Finding Joy in Competition
00:52:00 - The Impact of Teamwork
00:57:37 - Navigating Post-Games Reality
00:57:51 - Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes in this Series

Useful Links

Wednesday Mar 05, 2025

Ep231 ‘Working With Athletes With Disabilities’ with R.Potter, R.Davies, S.May, G.Barnes, D.Metcalfe

Wednesday Mar 05, 2025

In Ep.231 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast we start a four episode special on 'Working With Athletes With Disabilities.' Part 1 introduces you to all of our guests over the next four weeks:

Rich Potter & Rich Davies – armed forces veterans and single below leg amputees who set world records at the end of last year with their ‘Limb-itless Expedition: Conquering The Himalayas' as the first ever amputees to achieve the half and full length of The Snowman Trek in Bhutan, the toughest trek in the world with eleven mountain passes at altitudes of over 5,500m
Sam May & Gemma Barnes – Team UK athletes recently returned from Invictus Games 2025, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick service members and veterans, with adaptive sports to promote recovery, rehabilitation, and respect for those who serve.
Dan ‘ WheelsDan’ Metcalfe - Left paralysed from the waist down after a motorcycle accident in 2014, Dan has achieved three scuba diving world records for his disability category – fastest one mile scuba diving with and without a swimming band, and greatest distance scuba diving, all in fresh open water.
Carla Bickerstaffe and Jenny Lane - Sports Therapist & Massage Therapist, both of whom have experience of working with athletes with disabilities, with Jenny recently returning from her position as soft tissue therapist for Team UK at this year's Invictus Games.

The episode, as always recorded live on YouTube and Facebook, emphasizes the power of achievement, overcoming obstacles, and redefining what's possible. Tune in for insights into the next three episodes, as well as personal stories and lively discussions on creating a more inclusive and understanding world for athletes with disabilities.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:07:40 - Meet the Athletes & Therapists
00:12:40 - Rich Potter, The Limbitless Expedition and World Records
00:15:00 - Disability And The Word Inspirational
00:20:30 - Rich Davies - Having To Stop In The Limbitless Expedition
00:24:50 - Sam May - The Problems With Telling An Athlete To Stop
00:27:55 - Gemma Barnes - Communication Between Therapists and Athletes
00:32:30 - Sam May - The Invictus Games
00:36:40 - Not Just About The Medals
00:41:14 - Gemma Barnes - Adaptive Sport
00:45:15 - Dan Metcalfe - From Paralysis To Hand Cycling To Scuba Diving
00:53:30 - Detais of Next Episodes & Please Leave A Review

Useful Links

Friday Feb 28, 2025

Ep230: ‘Developing Female Athletes: Women Are Not Small Men’ with special guest Dr Gemma Parry

Friday Feb 28, 2025

And so we arrive at the final part of this month’s Focus on Women’s Health - Ep.230 ‘Developing Female Athletes: Women Are Not Small Men’ with special guest Dr Gemma Parry, Performance Specialist and Research Associate at the University of Bath.

Dr Parry discusses important factors related to growth and maturity when working with female athletes, the difference in experience between girls and boys, and the impact of that on the area of women's health given that we still apply a lot of assumed learnings and methods from male literature to female.

Sharing her unique journey from dance to sports therapy and highlighting her rich experience across Olympic, Paralympic, and various sporting disciplines, Dr Parry explains critical areas like the adolescent growth spurt, physical literacy, and the multiple dimensions of youth athlete development, providing rich insights into the nuances of coaching and therapy for adolescent female athletes.

Dr Parry also introduces listeners to the Physical Literacy Toolkit, a valuable resource for therapists and educators focused on addressing the broader spectrum of children's development - biologically, psychologically, and socially. Tune in to understand how shifting paradigms can enhance the health and performance outcomes of female athletes in sports therapy.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:03:46 - Upcoming Women in Sports Therapy CPD series
00:04:07 - Introducing Dr. Gemma Parry
00:04:55 - Dr. Gemma Parry’s Background
00:07:50 - Shift in Women’s Sports Opportunities
00:14:09 - Research Gaps in Female Athlete Studies
00:26:46 - Understanding Physical Literacy
00:50:21 - Physical Literacy Toolkit Overview
00:57:39 - Differences in Adolescent Development
00:59:19 - Importance of Early Investment in Health
01:03:29 - Preview of Next Episode on Athletes with Disability

Useful Links

Wednesday Feb 19, 2025

Ep.229: 'Pregnancy Related Back And Pelvic Pain' with special guest Michelle Lyons

Wednesday Feb 19, 2025

In Episode 229 of the Sports Therapy Association podcast, host Matt Phillips of runchatlive is joined by special guest Michelle Lyons, renowned women's health physiotherapist and creator of Celebrate Muliebrity. Michelle dives deep into the often misunderstood topic of pregnancy-related back and pelvic girdle pain. This episode is part three of this month's focus on women's health, offering listeners vital insights and practical advice.

Discover the real causes of pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy, debunking the common myths surrounding the condition. Michelle emphasizes that the pain is not due to instability caused by the hormone relaxin, but rather by other factors that can be managed effectively. Through a combination of calming techniques, strength training, and empowering education, pregnant women can overcome the debilitating effects of pelvic pain.

This episode is packed with invaluable tips for therapists and pregnant women, aiming to provide hope and a clear path to relief. Join the conversation and gain access to strategies that prioritize not only the physical but also the emotional well-being of expectant mothers.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:02:02 - Upcoming Topics
00:04:40 - Introducing Michelle Lyons
00:05:41 - The Importance of Women’s Health
00:15:36 - Understanding Pregnancy-Related Pain
00:18:14 - Hope for Pain Relief from Back and Pelvic Pain
00:25:32 - Empowering Therapists and Patients
00:29:29 - Strategies for Calming Back and Pelvic Pain during Pregnancy
00:35:50 - Strength Training for Pregnant Women
00:38:49 - Busting Myths in Pelvic Pain
00:43:21 - Red Flags to Watch For in Pregnancy
00:48:44 - Addressing Transient Osteoporosis in Pregnancy
00:51:51 - Pregancy Courses for Therapists
00:55:16 - Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

Useful Links

Thursday Feb 13, 2025

Ep.228: ‘Menopause: Bone Health & Muscle Mass' with special guests Christine Bird & Jo McEwan

Thursday Feb 13, 2025

Welcome to Ep.228 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast. In this episode, host Matt Phillips is joined by special guests Christien Bird and Joe McEwan, co-founders of Menopause Movement. They dive into Part 2 of our 'Focus On Women's Health' series, addressing the menopause, and in particular the associated changes in bone health and muscle mass that any healthcare professional with female clients or patients needs to be aware of.

The discussion sheds light on the often misunderstood impact of menopause on women's physical and psychological well-being. Christine and Joe share their expertise on how oestrogen levels affect muscle and bone health and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through exercises such as strength training to combat the effects of aging.

Also covered are the broader social implications, including the challenges faced by women in their relationships and workplaces, and the role of healthcare professionals in providing supportive care. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for understanding menopause, aiming to dispel myths and encourage informed decisions about health during this crucial phase of life.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:03:22 - Introducing Christien Bird & Jo McEwan of Menopause Movement
00:07:29 - The Importance of Muscle Health in the Menopause
00:10:58 - Bone Health and Osteoporosis in the Menopause
00:15:37 - Understanding Symptoms of Menopause
00:19:11 - Changing Perspectives on Aging in Women
00:22:32 - Identifying Early Menopause Signs
00:27:46 - Mental Health & Menopause
00:36:07 - Supporting Partners Through Menopause
00:46:47 - The Benefits of Topical Estrogen
00:48:54 - The Discussion Around HRT
00:50:50 - Empowering Women in Menopause Through Education
00:57:16 - Upcoming Menopause Courses and Resources
00:59:37 - Looking Ahead to Future Episodes on Women's Health

Useful Links

Wednesday Feb 05, 2025

Ep.227: 'Avoiding the Booby Traps of Breast Weight Management' with special guest Siobhan O'Donovan

Wednesday Feb 05, 2025

This month on the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, the focus is on ‘Women’s Health’, bringing you an amazing four part series of Women’s Health focussed episodes, with special guests including Christine Bird & Jo McEwan of Menopause Movement, Dr Gemma Parry from the English Institute of Sports, and Michelle Lyons of Celebrate Muliebrity.

In this Part 1 of the four episodes, entitled 'Avoiding the Booby Traps of Breast Weight Management', our special guest is Siobhan O'Donovan, aka ‘The Booby Physio’, who caused a storm of interest at last year’s Therapy Expo with her presentation about the impact that breast weight management can have on the physical, psychological and social health of women and girls.

In this hugely educational hour, Siobhan discusses this often-overlooked aspect of women's health and its profound effects, from sports performance to everyday comfort. Learn how internal support through posture and external support through proper bras can transform women's lives by reducing discomfort and enhancing health. Whether you're a therapist seeking to better serve your clients or simply interested in learning more about this vital topic, this episode offers valuable knowledge and perspectives.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:02:47 - Meet Siobhan O'Donovan
00:12:16 - The Journey to Becoming the Booby Physio
00:16:21 - Understanding Breast Weight Management
00:34:32 - Relevance of Posture in Breast Weight Management
00:40:46 - Addressing the Myths of Aging in Women
00:44:19 - How common is having one breast bigger than the other?
00:47:25 - CPD Courses and the Gals Against Gravity Community
00:54:54 - Next week: 'Menopause: Bone Health & Muscle Mass'

Useful Links

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025

Ep.226 ‘Client Relationship Management for Soft Tissue Therapists” with special guest Ben Holeyman of Jane App

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025

In Ep.226 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, special guest Ben Holeyman, Senior Product Specialist for Jane App, delves into the world of Client Relationship Management (CRM), exploring how CRM tools can transform the way soft tissue therapists manage their businesses, enhance client relationships, and streamline operations.

Discover insights into digitalizing client records, automating appointment scheduling, utilizing advanced note-taking methods, and integrating with other essential tools. Learn about the impact of efficient onboarding and offboarding experiences on maintaining strong client relations and boosting referrals.

This episode also addresses common barriers like the transition from paper to digital systems, data safety considerations, and the cost-benefit analysis of employing robust CRM solutions. Whether you work solo or within a team, this discussion provides valuable strategies to upgrade your practice and improve your work-life balance.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therapy Association Podcast
00:04:26 - Welcoming Ben Holeyman from Jane App
00:10:15 - Transitioning from Paper to Digital
00:16:38 - A look at Jane App and Its benefits
00:23:47 - Pricing and Value of CRM Software Tools
00:34:52 - Enhancing Note-Taking and Client Interactions
00:41:07 - The Importance of Onboarding and Offboarding
00:47:25 - Streamlining Accounting and Reporting
00:52:56 - Next Month: Focus on Women’s Health

Useful Links

Thursday Jan 23, 2025

Ep.225 ‘Collaboration Over Competition’ with guests Andy Thomas & Andy Hosgood

Thursday Jan 23, 2025

In Ep.225 of the Sports Therapy Association Podcast, host Matt Phillips welcomes guest experts Andy Thomas, Director of Physiquipe, and business consultant Andy Hosgood of andyhosgood.co.uk, for an enlightening discussion on the power of strategic collaboration in the healthcare business.

This episode, part three of our special four part 'Focus On Business' series, delves into why partnering with others can be more beneficial than competing against them. Whether you're a solo practitioner or leading a team, learn invaluable tips on how to enhance your business strategy and mindset to foster growth and success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to maximize their healthcare venture's potential.

Chapter Markers:

00:00:00 - Welcome to the Sports Therpy Association Podcast
00:03:01 - Introducing Any Thomas & Andy Hosgood
00:05:38 - Importance of Coaching in Healthcare
00:09:18 - Upcoming MSK Business Clinic in Manchester
00:16:06 - Challenges in Healthcare
00:21:40 - Importance of Boundaries
00:27:20 - Managing Client Expectations
00:33:33 - Collaboration Over Competition
00:40:39 - Pre-Event Networking
00:46:53 - Authenticity in Business
00:55:45 - Choices in Business
00:59:48 - Next Week: 'Client Relationship Management Tools'

Useful Links