On Q Performance Therapy Podcast

In this episode of the On Q podcast, host Mike Quintans, DPT engages in an exciting discussion with Rob Rabena, director of strength and conditioning at Ivy Rehab in Newtown Square. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to physical therapy, strength coaching, and program design. Together, Mike and Rob shed light on the role of physical therapists and strength coaches in providing comprehensive care for athletes and patients, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and guidance beyond the clinic. The key moments in this episode are:00:01:42 - Arm Care - Importance and Best Practices 00:07:42 - Arm Care - Common Mistakes and Overloading Issues 00:10:25 - ACL Injuries and Return to Performance 00:12:32 - Importance of Home Exercise Program after PT 00:13:32 - Importance of Strength Training Post-Rehab 00:15:02 - Programming Design and Exercise Variation 00:23:31 - Changing Perspectives in Professional Career 00:24:18 - Changing Perspectives on Exercise 00:25:14 - Reevaluating Manual Therapy 00:26:28 - Career Advice for Aspiring Physical Therapists 00:28:01 - Importance of Coaching Skills for PTs

In this episode of On Q, hosts Mike Quintans and Rob Rabena chat with Dr. Steven Cohen, a leading sports medicine specialist and head physician for the Philadelphia Phillies, about UCL injuries in baseball players. Dr. Cohen dives into the details of UCL tears, discussing the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options, including primary repair and reconstruction. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the entire kinetic chain and tailoring treatment to individual circumstances, shedding light on the changing demographics of UCL tears and the impact of intense year-round throwing. The conversation also delves into the rehabilitation process post-Tommy John surgery, debunking misconceptions and highlighting the critical role of education in injury prevention. Dr. Cohen's expertise and insights offer valuable guidance for athletes, parents, and coaches in safeguarding arm health and optimizing performance. If you're a concerned parent or a dedicated coach aiming to protect your young athlete's arm health while enhancing their pitching performance, this episode is a must listen. Contact Dr. Cohen via Rothman Orthopaedics The key moments in this episode are:00:00:04 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:01:22 - Dr. Steven Cohen's Background 00:03:08 - Mechanism of UCL Tear 00:05:26 - Diagnosis of UCL Tear 00:10:26 - Surgical Treatment of UCL Tear 00:11:21 - UCL Injury Management and Recovery 00:12:52 - UCL Tears in Young Athletes 00:16:26 - Recovery Differences by Position 00:17:33 - Timing and Season Considerations 00:22:01 - Early Rehab and Strength Training 00:23:20 - Importance of Rehab and Training after Elbow Surgery 00:25:48 - Revisions in UCL Reconstruction 00:28:29 - Success Rates and Risk Factors of UCL Injuries 00:30:29 - Mitigating UCL Injury Risks 00:34:54 - Navigating the Goals of Young Athletes and Their Parents 00:38:14 - Developing Pitchers with a Well-Structured Throwing Program 00:39:30 - Age-Appropriate Strength and Conditioning Training 00:40:03 - Assessing Risk Factors in Young Athletes 00:43:12 - Key Component of Throwing Programs 00:46:05 - Importance of Educating Athletes 00:47:27 - Rest and Recovery Timeline 00:48:37 - Relevance of Sports Medicine 00:49:40 - Importance of Rehabilitation

In this episode of On Q, you'll dive into a captivating conversation between hosts Mike Quintans and Rob Rabena and guest Mark Jesse, a seasoned strength and conditioning coach who was formerly with the Philadelphia Phillies' single A affiliate Blue Claws. Mark shares his journey from starting as an intern to becoming an integral part of the coaching team, offering valuable insights into individualized programming, managing training on the road, and integrating technology for performance tracking. His expertise in adapting training strategies for players based on their position and recent game performance, as well as his emphasis on utilizing technology to enhance player performance, makes this episode a must-listen for strength coaches and trainers in baseball. Mark's experiences and wisdom provide a wealth of knowledge that can significantly impact player performance and injury prevention. Learn more about Mark and Landshark Performance: https://landsharkperformance.co/about/mark-jesse The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:04 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:02:29 - Training Differences for Pitchers vs. Position Players 00:07:18 - Implementation of Technology in the Weight Room 00:09:41 - Individualized Programming and Data Analysis 00:11:07 - Advantages of Using Data-Driven Training 00:11:19 - Importance of Pitch Velocity and VBT in Training 00:12:17 - Offseason Training and Building Aerobic Base 00:13:47 - Incorporating Speed Training in Season 00:16:29 - Emphasis on Player Health and Injury Prevention 00:17:27 - Joint Range of Motion and Flexibility 00:22:55 - Importance of Range of Motion in Shoulder Health 00:23:59 - Use of Technology in Offseason Training 00:27:13 - Collaborative Player Development Strategies 00:29:54 - Addressing the Rise of Tommy John Surgeries 00:33:36 - Challenges in Pro Ball vs. Private Sector 00:35:04 - Building a Competitive Environment 00:37:41 - Importance of Customer Service 00:39:51 - Cultural Adaptation in Pro Baseball 00:42:15 - Building a Successful Training Facility 00:45:02 - Exercise Selection for Baseball Players

In the podcast episode of On Q, you'll dive into sports nutrition and performance with guest Cat Hammer, the Head Sports Dietitian at the University of Pennsylvania. Cat shares valuable insights on structuring meals, the importance of hydration, and the impact of supplements on athletic performance. Cat's practical tips and balanced approach to nutrition underscore how eating for athletes can be both simple and very complex, making this episode a must-listen for college athletes prioritizing performance and health. From discussing the use of supplements to providing guidance on meal timing and composition, Cat shares her expertise on the essential role of nutrition and hydration in optimizing athletic performance. In this episode, you'll learn: How to optimize your athletic performance with personalized meal structures and sports nutrition insights. The difference between a registered dietician and internet health coaches. The importance of meal timing and composition in the morning, before exercise, and after The crucial role of hydration in enhancing your athletic performance and overall well-being. What you should consider when buying supplements and protein powders. Since starting at Penn in 2020, Hammer has overseen the nutritional strategies and approaches for Penn’s intercollegiate teams, meeting individually with student-athletes as well as providing team and small group presentations. She also serves on multiple interdisciplinary committees with other members of Penn’s Sports Performance unit to better serve the Division’s nearly 1,000 student-athletes.  The Philadelphia native is also the owner of Hammer Fuel Sports Nutrition, a virtual sports nutrition counseling and consulting business for middle school, high school, collegiate and professional athletes. She is also a consultant with Ascent Athlete, formerly Maplezone Sports Institute, and began her career as the sports nutrition assistant with the Bradenton Marauders, the High-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Hammer earned her bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from West Chester University in 2018, where she was a three-time all-region and two-time all-conference softball player for the Golden Rams. She received a master’s degree in exercise and nutrition science from the University of Tampa in 2019.  Contact Cat: Penn Website Hammer Fuel Website Hammer Fuel Sports Nutrition Instagram The key moments in this episode are:00:00:04 - Introduction to Performance Therapy Podcast 00:02:08 - Building Relationships and Growth 00:05:05 - Planning Nutrition and Workouts 00:07:46 - A Day in the Life of a Registered Dietician in College Athletics 00:10:16 - Confidentiality and Collaboration 00:11:36 - Balancing Clinical and Sports Performance Nutrition 00:12:44 - Putting Together a Dietary Plan 00:14:03 - Caloric Intake for Athletes 00:15:47 - Registered Dietitian vs. Nutritionist 00:20:56 - Modifying Nutrient Intake Based on Activity 00:22:37 - Carb Cycling for Athletes 00:23:40 - Tracking Calories and Macros 00:25:18 - Meal Timing and Nutrient Intake 00:27:44 - Pitfalls of Excessive Protein Intake 00:31:52 - Thoughts on Intermittent Fasting 00:33:22 - Importance of Eating for Muscle Building 00:34:49 - Hydration for Athletes 00:37:28 - Impact of Dehydration on Performance 00:41:28 - Protein, Supplements, and Third-Party Testing 00:44:27 - Importance of Researching Supplements 00:46:09 - Creatine and Nutrition 00:48:31 - Casein Protein and Energy Drinks 00:53:51 - Simplifying Nutrition

In this episode of On Q, Dr. Stephen S. Soondar, a podiatrist at Healthmark Foot and Ankle, discusses the complexities of ankle injuries and Achilles tendon ruptures with hosts Mike Quintans and Rob Rabena. Dr. Soondar highlights the importance of setting realistic recovery expectations for patients, and dives into the best bracing protocols. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking insights into preventing injuries and promoting long-term foot and ankle health. In this episode you'll hear: Dr. Soondar explain the role of ankle support in sports to maximize performance and prevent injuries. The essential steps in Achilles tendon injury recovery for areturn to sports. Preventive measures to safeguard your ankles from potential injuries and stay in the game. "I think a lot of it is shoe gear. Making sure you're wearing the appropriate stuff for what you're playing. You're not going for a run in Chuck Taylor's, right? You're not playing basketball with a pair of crocs," - Dr. Stephen Soondar Dr. Stephen S. Soondar, D.P.M is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association and a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He is Board Certified in Foot Surgery, Reconstructive Rearfoot and Ankle Surgery. He graduated from Temple University's School of Podiatric Medicine and has been published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery. Dr. Soondar specializes in Lower Extremity Trauma, Charcot Foot Reconstruction, Limb Salvage, and Ankle Arthroscopy as well as the comprehensive scope of Forefoot and Rearfoot medicine. He is a member of the Visitor’s and Founder’s boards at Temple University’s School of Podiatric Medicine. Learn more about Dr.Soondar here. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:04 - Introduction to the Podcast 00:00:28 - Introduction of Dr. Stephen Sundar 00:04:20 - Mechanism of High Ankle Sprains 00:09:30 - Treatment and Recovery 00:10:18 - Ankle Braces and Orthosis 00:11:44 - The Ineffectiveness of Ankle Braces and Wraps 00:12:30 - The Benefits of Taping and Bracing 00:15:21 - Common Sports Prone to Ankle Injuries 00:16:10 - Post-injury Brace Recommendation 00:20:59 - Preventative Measures for Ankle Injuries 00:23:03 - Preventing Re-injury and Using Braces 00:25:04 - Mechanism of Achilles Tendon Rupture 00:27:37 - Surgery and Non-weight Bearing Period 00:29:23 - Managing Injuries in Higher-Level Athletes 00:32:58 - Conservative Management and Healing Process 00:34:36 - Surgical Intervention for Achilles Injuries 00:35:00 - Aaron Rogers' Recovery 00:36:01 - Different Repair Techniques 00:37:21 - Recovery Timeline and Long-Term Effects 00:43:01 - Preventative Measures and Strength Training 00:45:50 - Understanding the Causes of Injuries 00:46:50 - Mitigating the Risk of Injuries 00:47:52 - Importance of Stretching 00:48:12 - How to Connect

SEASON 4, EPISODE 14 WITH DOUG DAVIDSON OF THE VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS In this episode, we sit down with Doug Davidson, Associate Director of Sports Performance and Strength & Conditioning for Stanley Cup Champions, the Vegas Golden Knights. we discuss common sports injuries amongst hockey players and Davidson's training philosophies for elite-level hockey players during both in-season and off-season programming. In this episode, we cover: Off-Ice conditioning protocols for elite hockey players during the season The types of conditioning Davidson likes to incorporate. Why running isn't his go-to conditioning exercise. How important maximum strength is to hockey performance What the key physical qualities Davidson focuses on during the off-season are. How the amount of travel required during the season impacts an NHL team's training focus and schedule How Davidson schedules lifts for the players around games. How Davidson considers a player's autonomic nervous system and metabolic load when building out strength programs. How Davidson consolidates the stress put on the players' bodies. How training varies for players depending on playing position. Doug Davidson on LinkedIn Doug Davidson is the Associate Director of Sports Performance and Strength & Conditioning for the Vegas Golden Knights, where he is responsible for maximizing the athletic potential of players through the development, instruction, progression, oversight and documentation of individual and group performance enhancements and recovery training activities. Prior to joining the Golden Knights, he spent two seasons as the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins where he oversaw all aspects of off-ice training, assisted in rehab and oversaw team meals, supplement use, and nutrition. Before joining the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins Hockey Club, Davidson served as the Strength and Conditioning Coach at the Gary Roberts High-Performance Centre from 2013-15, where he worked with a variety of male and female athletes, including elite hockey players ranging from NHL players to aspiring youths to improve their performance while also correcting posture, muscle imbalances, and movement patterns. Davidson was a Strength and Conditioning Intern at Queen's University from 2010-13. In 2013 he received the Varsity Service Award for his contributions to Queen's University Varsity Athletics as a strength and conditioning intern. He also completed a strength and conditioning internship at Cressey Performance in 2012. Doug Davidson attended Queen's University, where he graduated with honors in 2013 with a Bachelor's degree in Physical and Health Education. He has a dual Masters's Degree in Sports Conditioning and Exercise & Sport Psychology from A.T. Still University and is a certified strength and conditioning coach through NSCA.

PART 2 WITH GEORGE ZIRKEL | SEASON 4, EPISODE 13 Part 2 with George Zirkel discusses how his throwing program has been impacted by new philosophies and technology, along with major takeaways and lessons he has learned during his time as a pitching and throwing coach. In this episode, we cover: What J-Bands are and their benefits in training The history of weighted baseball training and if weighted balls are necessary to throw faster The disadvantages of mass adoption of popular programs and philosophies What new approaches have come about in recent years to throwing harder What tactics are used to address throwing form issues What the effective ways to talk to athletes are What George specifically modifies in a player's throwing How George incorporate's a surgeon's advice when working with throwers recovering from an injury How George modifies his program "on the move" What the #1 deficit in mechanics that leads to elbow injuries The most common thing coaches do wrong that lead to a pitcher's injury George's #1 tip to throw harder George is the Director of Pitching and Associate Director of Operations at On Deck George and was the Director of Pitching at Ascent Athlete for nearly 4 years where he coached hundreds of pitchers including MLB, MiLB, college, high school, and youth pitchers. He also created an internship program in which aspiring coaches received educational training and gained hands-on experience working with athletes. George has spent years coordinating throwing plans with strength and conditioning coaches and physical therapists to ensure his pitchers are getting the best care possible.

PART 1 WITH GEORGE ZIRKEL | SEASON 4, EPISODE 12 Part 1 with George Zirkel discusses the topic of rehabilitating pitchers, including the importance of proper throwing programs, measuring intensity and feedback mechanisms, and conducting assessments to understand the individual's background and goals. In this episode, we cover: What rehab means for pitchers What client population George works with What should be revised from the return to throw protocol What the goal arm speed and RPM values should be for pitchers What type of bands George uses for pitchers that he works with How George's pitching program utilizes the "three pillars" What George's first assessment looks like How George uses video in his assessments What the overall thrower evaluation looks like after getting the baseline data Thoughts on athletes playing fall baseball George is the Director of Pitching and Associate Director of Operations at On Deck George and was the Director of Pitching at Ascent Athlete for nearly 4 years, where he coached hundreds of pitchers, including MLB, MiLB, college, high school, and youth pitchers. He also created an internship program in which aspiring coaches received educational training and gained hands-on experience working with athletes. George has spent years coordinating throwing plans with strength and conditioning coaches and physical therapists to ensure his pitchers are getting the best care possible. In 2022, George completed his Master of Arts in Motor Learning and Control from Columbia University. In 2017 he completed his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Susquehanna University. George played collegiately at Susquehanna University.

PART 2 WITH DR. AMBER MACFARLANE, DO | SEASON 4, EPISODE 11 Part 2 with Dr. Amber MacFarlane, DO discusses Tenex and TenJet procedures for the treatment of tendinopathies and scar tissue removal. In this episode, we cover: What Osteopathic manual therapy is and why Dr.MacFarlane chooses to use it in her practice. What Tenex and TenJet are and how they work. What the differences between Tenex and TenJet are. How ultrasound is used for imagining with Tenex and Tenjet. What the recovery and rehab process looks like after a Tenex or TenJet procedure. The success outcomes of Tenex and TenJet procedures are. What managing tendinopathies and tendonitis looks like in the weight room with Rob Rabena. Who the best candidates for these procedures are. What kind of person is most at risk for tendonitis and tendinopathy. The fast five: What's Dr.MacFarlane's favorite thing about being on the sideline? What the greatest height Dr.MacFarlane ever pole vaulted? What testing is Dr.MacFarlane uses on the sideline when she suspects a concussion? Who should not get their neck manipulated? What's one way we can get better at diagnosing concussions? Amber MacFarlane, DO, a native of Southampton, Pennsylvania is a Board-Certified Sports Medicine Physician and completed her residency and fellowship at Crozer Health. She earned her medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine after obtaining a degree in Biology from Widener University. She has been the team physician for the Philadelphia Union, Philadelphia Union 2, University of Delaware, Garnet Valley High School, Strath Haven High School, and Upper Darby High School. Dr. MacFarlane is a former Division III NCAA pole vaulter. She continues to be very active in weight lifting, running, and hiking. She lives in Bucks County, PA, with her husband.

PART 1 WITH DR.AMBER MACFARLANE, DO | SEASON 4 EPISODE 10 Part 1 with Dr. Amber MacFarlane DO is focused on low back pain evaluation, treatment, and prevention in young athlete populations. We cover: The most common sport-related injuries that cause low back pain are Spodololisis prevalence, treatment, and management. How Dr.MacFarlane's osteopathic background informs her evaluation and care processes In general, when is it appropriate to get imaging, like an MRI, for back pain When and why would bracing be recommended for back pain treatment How to prevent back pain when participating in strength training What the core is What athletes are getting wrong when training core Philosophies around Injections and medications for the treatment of lower back pain in young athletes What return-to-sport looks like with back pain in young athletes Amber MacFarlane, DO, a native of Southampton, Pennsylvania is a Board-Certified Sports Medicine Physician and completed her residency and fellowship at Crozer Health. She earned her medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine after obtaining a degree in Biology from Widener University. She has been the team physician for the Philadelphia Union, Philadelphia Union 2, University of Delaware, Garnet Valley High School, Strath Haven High School, and Upper Darby High School. Dr. MacFarlane is a former Division III NCAA pole vaulter. She continues to be very active in weight lifting, running, and hiking. She lives in Bucks County, PA, with her husband.