431 | Using Neuroplastic Recovery for Chronic Pain & Illness with Dr. David Clarke

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, co-hosts Doc Jen and Dr. Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, are joined by Dr. David Clark to explore the origins and treatment of chronic neuroplastic pain. They discuss how stress, early life experiences, and emotional factors can reshape brain pathways, leading to real, persistent symptoms of chronic pain. The conversation highlights the importance of compassionate listening, self-care, the mind-body connection and nervous system regulation techniques. Dr. Clark shares patient stories, practical resources, and hope for recovery, emphasizing that even long-standing chronic pain symptoms can improve through neuroplastic recovery therapy and lifestyle changes.Join the Jen Health VIP List:Come join our VIP list where you will get set exclusive discounts that are above and beyond any public discount we ever offer! Get signed up for free HERE!LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. It’s our favorite micro nutrition hack to get those essential minerals in! Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now!Dr Clarke's Resources:Symptomatic.Me on IGPPD Association on YoutubeSymptomatic.Me WebsiteSymptomatic.Me FacebookWe think you’ll love:Free Week of Jen HealthJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat You'll Learn from Dr Clarke:03:24 Dr. Clark shares his journey into chronic pain specialization and the importance of recognizing brain-generated symptoms.09:27 Dr. Clark explains how honoring patients’ experiences and breathwork can regulate the nervous system.11:11 Discussion on how to help patients move beyond structural diagnoses and understand pain from a neuroplastic perspective.12:15 Dr. Clark describes...For full show notes, visit: https://jen.health/podcast/431 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom—both doctors of physical therapy—address widespread myths and misconceptions surrounding neck pain and posture. They delve into the natural variation in cervical spine curvature, explaining that straightened neck curves and age-related degenerative changes are frequently seen on imaging and are often a normal part of the aging process, not necessarily linked to pain or dysfunction. They stress the importance of not letting fear-based interpretations of MRI or X-ray results dictate treatment decisions. Instead, they advocate for proactive approaches to posture and neck pain such as regular movement, targeted exercise, and education to empower individuals in managing their symptoms. Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom provide practical tips and evidence-based strategies to help find relief from neck pain, improve mobility and posture, and support overall neck health.VivoBarefoot Discount:Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—with perfect styles for any occasion! Boost foot health through mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. It’s our favorite micro nutrition hack to get those essential minerals in! Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now!Neck and Upper Back PlanDive in on our Neck and Upper Back Plan on Jen Health for FREE to get a plan with exercise that will help you get to the root cause of those neck aches and pains. Use code OPTIMAL to get your first full month for only $20!We think you’ll love:Start the Neck Plan!Jen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat You'll Learn:02:26 Intro...For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/430 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom are joined by fertility expert Dr. Natalie Crawford. They dive into a thorough discussion on women's health, focusing on fertility, menstrual health, and preparing for pregnancy. Dr. Crawford explains the menstrual cycle, addresses common misconceptions, and highlights the importance of self-advocacy, stress management, and lifestyle for women's health and reproductive health. She also shares insights from her upcoming book, "The Fertility Formula," empowering listeners with practical advice for optimizing fertility and navigating women's health challenges like infertility and pregnancy loss.VivoBarefoot Discount:Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—with perfect styles for any occasion! Boost foot health through mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!Needed Discount:Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout!Dr Crawford's Resources:Dr Crawford on IGDr Crawford's YoutubeDr Crawford's WebsiteDr Crawford's TikTokWe think you’ll love:Pelvic Floor FoundationsJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat You'll Learn From Dr Crawford:05:11 Discussion on why fertility is an important indicator of overall health and longevity.09:36 Dr. Crawford explains the phases, hormones, and normal function of the menstrual cycle.14:28 Clarifies normal and abnormal pain, bleeding, and ovulatory symptoms during the menstrual cycle.20:09 Explores how birth control is used to mask symptoms...For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/429 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy, discuss patellofemoral pain syndrome, a common cause of pain at the front of the knee. They debunk myths about outdated treatments and explain patellofemoral pain syndrome as an overload condition, highlighting its prevalence among adolescents, women, and runners. The hosts outline a phased, evidence-based rehab approach for patellofemoral pain syndrome, focusing on hip and knee strengthening, mobility, and gradual progression to dynamic activities. They emphasize the importance of load management, pain education, and consistency, and introduce their structured “Knee Plan” to guide listeners through recovery. Neck and Upper Back Plan:Dealing with the pesky neck or upper back pains? Worried about your posture starting to slump forward? This is the time to start addressing those issues! We have a perfectly curated plan that provides targeted exercise to get to the root cause of these restrictions. As a podcast listener, you can even use code OPTIMAL to get your first full month for only $20! Come start your free trial and join our movement community today!We think you’ll love:Start the Knee Plan!Free Knee MasterclassJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat You'll Learn:2:31 Introduction to Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome3:32 Outdated Treatments and VMO Myth4:42 Describes PFPS as an overload syndrome, with pain due to repeated stress and joint sensitization.7:06 Cycle of Chronic Pain and Recovery Challenges8:00 Emphasizes the need for progressive loading in rehab, not just basic or passive exercises.9:51 Discusses misconceptions about patellar tracking and pain, and the inability to isolate the VMO.12:18 Highlights research supporting combined hip and knee strengthening for PFPS recovery.13:55 Notes that hip weakness, especially in glutes, is a strong contributor to PFPS.15:11 Explains that some pain during rehab is normal and not a sign of damage.16:12 Covers passive treatments like taping, manual therapy, and footwear changes to help manage pain.17:43 Outlines the three rehab phases: pain reduction/activation, dynamic strength, and ballistic/plyometric training.18:34 Phase 1: Describes initial exercises: isometric holds, straight leg raises, clamshells, bridges, and mobility work.20:37 Phase 2: Covers progression...For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/428 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom interview Dr. Lance Frank, a pelvic floor physical therapist specializing in men’s health and LGBTQIA+ care. They discuss the underdiagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunction in men, common symptoms (such as pain, urinary and bowel issues, and sexual dysfunction), and the stigma preventing many from seeking help. Dr. Frank explains his patient-centered approach, the importance of education and early intervention, and practical strategies for improving pelvic floor health. The episode aims to break down taboos and empower listeners to address pelvic floor concerns proactively.LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. It’s our favorite micro nutrition hack to get those essential minerals in! Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now!Pelvic Floor Foundations:Want a stronger pelvic floor but don’t know where to start? Our Pelvic Floor Foundations Course guides you step-by-step with education and exercise. Podcast listeners get a discount with code OPTIMAL10. Learn more and sign up today!Dr Lance's Resources:Lance In Your Pants on IGLance's YoutubeFlex PT WebsiteLance's TikTokWe think you’ll love:Pelvic Floor FoundationsJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat You'll Learn from Dr Lance:02:39 Dr. Lance’s Journey into Pelvic Health07:29 What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?09:15 Why Pelvic Floor Dysfunction is Underdiagnosed in Men14:03 What to Expect at a Pelvic Health Appointment...For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/427 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, physical therapists Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both Doctors of Physical Therapy, discuss how postpartum women can safely return to strength training while breastfeeding. They explain the hormonal changes after birth and their effects on mood, energy, and physical recovery. The hosts share practical health tips for hydrations, nutrition, and gradual exercise progression, emphasizing core and pelvic floor stability in early postpartum stages. Personal experiences and strategies for accountability are highlighted, along with the importance of patience and individualized approaches. The episode offers encouragement and evidence-based advice to help new moms regain strength and support their health during the postpartum period.VivoBarefoot Discount:Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—with perfect styles for any occasion! Boost foot health through mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!Needed Discount:Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout!Strong Healthy JointsThis program is a powerhouse in helping build muscle mass and improve your bone density! Come grab our listener bonus discount on Strong Healthy Joints using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout!We think you’ll love:Strong Healthy Joints CourseBeWell By Kelly ProteinJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat You Will Learn:02:15 Hormonal Shifts Postpartum03:17 Calorie Deficit & Mindset Shift05:40 Prolactin and Its Effects06:53 Oxytocin and Maternal Bonding07:50 Estrogen Drop and Bone Health09:19 Progesterone...For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/426 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doctors of Physical Therapy Doc Jen and Dr Dom, welcome holistic therapist Megan, creator of the Love Alignment Method and author of Choose Yourself. Megan shares her journey from eating disorder recovery to specializing in attachment trauma and relationships. The discussion explores self-discovery, healing attachment wounds, exploring past relationships, and the importance of somatic therapy to heal traumatic pain. Megan offers practical tips for finding the right therapist, cultivating the mind-body connection, and embracing time alone to build self-worth. The episode provides empowering insights and tools for cultivating authentic relationships and prioritizing personal healing and growth.LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. It’s our favorite micro nutrition hack to get those essential minerals in! Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now!Free Week of the Jen Health Membership:Get a free week of Jen Health Membership! Access 12 plans crafted by Doc Jen, PT. We’ll match you with the best plan for your goals. Check it out today and use code OPTIMAL for a discount on your first month!Megan's Resources:"Choose Yourself" by Megan ShererMegan's InstagramMegan's YoutubeMegan's WebsiteWe think you’ll love:Free Week of Jen HealthJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat You Will Learn:02:00 Megan shares her journey from eating disorder recovery to attachment trauma, and why she wrote her book.04:26 Discussion on societal pressures, especially for women, to follow specific relationship timelines.07:00 Limitations of Traditional Talk...For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/425 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom explore how to build muscle and strength without lifting heavy weights. They explain that working muscles to fatigue within a moderate rep range—using lighter loads or bodyweight—can be just as effective to build muscle. The hosts share practical exercise modifications, discuss the importance of reaching muscular failure, and emphasize recovery, nutrition, and consistency. They encourage listeners, especially women and older adults, to prioritize strength training for muscle growth for lifelong optimal health and independence, offering accessible strategies and resources for getting started at home.VivoBarefoot Discount:Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—with perfect styles for any occasion! Boost foot health through mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!Needed Discount:Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout!We think you’ll love:Strong Healthy Joints CourseJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat You Will Learn:03:07 Sarcopenia and Muscle Loss with Age06:51 Strength Training for Longevity09:44 Rep Ranges to Build Muscle11:08 Muscular Failure vs. Muscle Burn13:44 Training Frequency for Muscle Growth15:17 Blood Flow Restriction & Joint Sensitivities17:12 Challenging Mindsets About Lifting Heavy19:59 Designing a Low-Load Hypertrophy Workout20:05 Lower Body Exercise Examples22:46 Upper Body Exercise Examples25:32 Shoulder and Overhead Exercises28:25 Nutrition and Recovery for Muscle GrowthFor Full Show Notes and Resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/424 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom welcome pelvic floor Doctor of Physical Therapy Dr. Sarah Reardon to discuss her new book, "Flawed: A Women’s Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage." They explore the importance of pelvic health education, debunk common myths, address certain pelvic floor pain and conditions, and address the stigma surrounding women’s pelvic health. Dr. Reardon shares practical tips and exercise for daily habits, highlights the need for early education, and emphasizes that pelvic health is a lifelong journey. The conversation empowers listeners to make informed, compassionate choices about their bodies. Dr. Sarah Reardon is truly a pioneer in women's health advocacy.Needed Discount:Jen trusted Needed Supplements for fertility, pregnancy, and beyond! Support men and women’s health with vitamins, Omega-3, and more. Used by 6,000+ pros. Use code OPTIMAL for 20% off at checkout!Pelvic Floor Foundations:Want a stronger pelvic floor but don’t know where to start? Our Pelvic Floor Foundations Course guides you step-by-step. Podcast listeners get a discount with code OPTIMAL10. Learn more and sign up today!Dr Sarah's Resources:Dr Sarah's Book: "Floored"Dr Sarah's InstagramThe V-Hive MembershipWe think you’ll love:Pelvic Floor Founations CourseJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelWhat You'll Learn from Sarah:03:33 Making Pelvic Health Approachable07:55 Gaps in Pelvic Health Awareness & Treatment09:54 Pelvic Health Across Life Stages12:49 Hormones, Menstruation, and Pelvic Floor Symptoms15:34 Early Education & Product Choices18:46 Pelvic Health Products: What Works & What Doesn’t21:20 Marketing, Quick Fixes, and Long-Term...For full show notes and resources visit https://jen.health/podcast/423 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom, both physical therapists, dive deep into the world of barefoot shoes and the barefoot lifestyle. They explore how making the switch to barefoot footwear can help address common pain issues, including bunion pain and plantar fasciitis. The hosts discuss essential features of minimalist shoes, share their own barefoot journeys, and emphasize why a gradual, personalized approach is important to avoid injury. You’ll hear practical tips, targeted exercises, and assessments to strengthen your feet and improve mobility while going barefoot. Dr. Jen and Dr. Dom also introduce their Barefoot Mini Course and recommend supportive tools like toe socks and spacers for anyone dealing with bunions, plantar fasciitis, or general foot pain. Listeners are encouraged to be patient and consistent—embracing barefoot habits and foot exercise for optimal health and lifelong foot function.VivoBarefoot Discount:Support your feet and ankles with VivoBarefoot shoes—with perfect styles for any occasion! Boost foot health through mobility and strength from the ground up. Use code OPTIMAL20 for 20% off. 100-day trial included—return if you’re not satisfied!LMNT Electrolytes: Free Gift with Purchase!Stay hydrated and energized with LMNT electrolytes—sodium, potassium, and magnesium for brain and body. It’s our favorite micro nutrition hack to get those essential minerals in! Get a free gift with every purchase and try new flavors! Get your Free Gift now!Barefoot Mini Course:Struggling with plantar fasciitis or bunion pain? Our Barefoot Mini Course helps you self-assess and relieve foot issues. Many have found relief! Use code OPTIMAL10 for a discount. Learn more and sign up now!We think you’ll love:Barefoot Mini CourseFree Plantar Fasciitis GuideJen’s InstagramDom’s InstagramYouTube ChannelFor full show notes and resources visit: https://jen.health/podcast/422What You'll Learn:2:33 Transitioning to Barefoot Shoes: Listener Questions7:18 Personal Foot Backgrounds8:38 Defining Barefoot Shoes10:35 Research on Barefoot Shoes... Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.