Episodi

  • AT the End of the Bench

    AT the End of the Bench
    Jan 21 2026

    AT the end of the Bench by Dr. Robert Bradley is a good read for prospective and new Athletic Trainers to the profession. With 32 years of experience as an AT, Dr. Bradley has some advice and wisdom for those who are not so new to the profession as well.

    Robert, what is one of your favorite stories to share from your AT career?

    When I was a student, the sidelines were muddy, and it was pouring rain. SE Missouri University

    Assisting a softball player after recovering from a stroke at the age of 19. She was able return to play eventually.

    Take us back to the very beginning. What is your first memory of an Athletic Trainer?

    I was cut from the basketball team as a junior in high school. I went to a cramer first aider camp and the rest is history.

    What made you become an Athletic Trainer?

    My father was a coach, and I understood that side of the game.

    I did not enjoy the competition part.

    This was the best of both worlds for me.

    How long until the “honeymoon” period was over for you?

    Worked at a high school in Saint Louis

    Then went to college athletics

    When I stepped into the administrative role, things changed for me.

    How do we stay in the “honeymoon phase”?

    Depends on your desires

    If you just want to be in the traditional role and avoid the admin work, then you may stay in that phase forever.

    Why did you switch?

    I had a talent for organization and administration.

    I still cover sporting events at the local college.

    What do you wish you knew going into AT?

    The chapters that were most fun to write

    Coaches – I want ATs to understand the coach’s perspective

    Contact:

    Robert Bradley – rlbatc@gmail.com

    Benjamin Stephenson – @_benstephenson on IG

    These people LOVE Athletic Trainers and help support the podcast:

    Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products.

    Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast

    Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school)

    HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration DRINK HOIST

    MedBridge Education – Use “TheSMB” to save some money, be entered in a drawing for a second year free, and support the podcast.

    Marc Pro – Use “THESMB” to recover better.

    Athletic Dry Needling – Save up to $100 when registering through our link.
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    29 min
  • Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes

    Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes
    Jan 7 2026
    Learn about sudden cardiac death in athletes, including screening, return-to-play, misconceptions, and insights for athletic trainers. Q: What is one key takeaway for athletic trainers regarding sudden cardiac death? A: It is crucial for athletic trainers to utilize available screening tools. When an athlete provides positive answers during screening, it’s essential to follow up thoroughly to ensure appropriate medical evaluation occurs. This approach helps identify potential cardiac issues early. Q: What are the clearance and return-to-play criteria for athletes diagnosed with or being treated for a heart condition? A: Clearance and return-to-play criteria vary based on the individual patient and the specific cardiomyopathy and its severity. While many athletes may face sport restrictions, some cases allow for participation if evaluations are thorough. Each situation requires careful consideration, as there is no universal “cookbook” approach. Q: What are the most common misconceptions about sudden cardiac death in athletes? A: A common misconception stems from fear regarding athletes collapsing on the court. It’s important to understand that it’s impossible to guarantee 100% prevention. Comprehensive workups are necessary to identify rare factors contributing to sudden cardiac death, as some issues might not always be immediately apparent. Q: What are the updated incidence values and trends in male and Black athletes regarding sudden cardiac death, and what explains these patterns? A: Multiple factors contribute to these patterns, including genetics and predisposing health conditions. Socioeconomic status, affecting access to healthcare providers and cardiologists, also plays a significant role. Often, primary care physicians manage a large population due to limited access to specialists, and missed family screenings for cardiomyopathy can impact these variables. Q: What are the barriers when younger athletes are unable to explain what is happening to them? A: Effective communication with younger athletes is key. Teenagers, for instance, may be reluctant to express their symptoms clearly in a clinic setting, especially if they fear being told they cannot play. Instead of general questions like “Have you experienced chest pain?”, ask specific questions about the type of pain (e.g., sharp, moving). It is also the healthcare provider’s responsibility to perform thorough exams and order proper tests, such as EKGs or ultrasounds, to avoid missing critical information. Q: Is there a commonly overlooked response when screening athletes? A: A significant red flag is when athletes, for various reasons, fill out screening forms themselves and then change their answers, or when forms are left blank or show erasures. Following up with specific questions about why they changed or erased an answer, and providing education, is crucial. Q: What inspired you to focus on sudden cardiac death in athletes? A: My personal experience as an athlete growing up in a small Texas town, where sports were integral, profoundly shaped my life, teaching me multitasking, leadership, and competitiveness. As a mother with multiple children involved in competitive sports, I understand the physical and mental benefits. My inspiration stems from wanting to ensure their safe participation. Q: What ethical dilemmas arise when individuals refuse genetic testing? A: When requesting genetic testing, it’s vital to explain to families why the test is necessary and how it can help. Many are more receptive when they understand it’s a narrow test, not a full genetic profile, and how it can benefit their children. Ultimately, respect their decision and use available information to provide the best care without undue pressure. Q: Is there anything else athletic trainers should know about sudden cardiac death? A: I am highly impressed by the athletic training field, particularly athletic trainers’ knowledge, dedication to children, and proficiency in CPR and AED use. While physicians have the support of nurses and other healthcare professionals, athletic trainers often perform life-saving interventions on the field independently, which is truly commendable. Q: What management or monitoring strategies are suggested for children removed from sports due to cardiac conditions? A: Be mindful of athletes who are removed from sports, as they may feel a sense of loss after being part of a team. If time permits, maintain contact and explore new ways to keep them involved, possibly in a different role within the team or organization. Collaborate with other team members to help the athlete transition and remain connected. Contact Us Jeremy Jackson Benjamin Stephenson Layci Harrison Mark Knoblauch Ashlyne Elliott Leslie Bennett Sponsor List Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products. Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast. Donate and get some swag ...
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    14 min
  • Neck, Nerve, Both or More? A Case Report

    Neck, Nerve, Both or More? A Case Report
    Dec 24 2025
    Explore a complex case of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, double crush, & triple crush injuries. Learn about diagnosis, treatment, & patient support. Q: Overview of Neck, Nerve, or Both? A: My wife experienced numbness in her upper extremities. As an athletic trainer (AT), I initially suspected Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS). She eventually sought medical attention and was diagnosed with TOS. Conservative treatment, including medication and a home exercise program, was recommended. However, therapy seemed to worsen her symptoms. An MRI of the vascular system came back normal, except for a benign thyroid mass. A cervical MRI revealed stenosis in C5, C6, and C7, which, when combined with her other symptoms, provided clarity. I consulted a spine surgeon, who advised exhausting conservative options before considering surgery for insurance coverage. My wife, who has a fear of anesthesia, opted for pain management and received injections. An EMG to rule out carpal tunnel syndrome indicated 70% carpal tunnel involvement. An upper extremity specialist diagnosed a double crush injury, meaning nerve compression at two sites. She underwent left-side carpal and cubital tunnel release, followed by a two-level cervical fusion. Post-surgery, she regained sensation in her pinkies. The right side was subsequently treated. She experienced relief for about a year before numbness recurred. Another round of CT, MRI, and EMG scans returned normal. Pain management suggested a shoulder issue, leading to an MRI of the shoulder. While the report mentioned a slight rotator cuff tear, a physician who reviewed the scans deemed her shoulder pristine. This doctor’s examination of her neck, however, exacerbated her symptoms, leading to a diagnosis of lower brachial plexus TOS. Despite my initial concern about the previous treatments, the doctor affirmed that the cervical fusion was necessary. A C8 nerve block did not provide relief but offered further diagnostic information. We were then referred to a specialist in Dallas, where a diagnostic nerve block in the scalenes provided immediate relief. Months later, Botox injections were administered for extended relief. The doctor’s words, “How does it feel to not be crazy?” significantly validated her experience. She then underwent a first rib removal on the left side, which resulted in an 11-day hospital stay with complications including two chest tubes, a needle aspiration, and 100cc of fluid in the pleural cavity. Upon returning home, she began physical therapy but developed shortness of breath with deep breaths due to a costochondral fracture, likely from the chest tube or aspiration. She is currently awaiting a consultation for ultrasound injections to address this. The journey continues. Q: What inspired you to share this story? A: The primary motivation was to share the complex journey and its takeaways. This case involved a “triple crush” — compression at the first rib, cubital tunnel, and carpal tunnel. A key takeaway is the importance of acknowledging when you “don’t know, but know the next step.” In healthcare, we often focus on obvious issues, but a broader perspective is often needed before returning to specific concerns. It’s also crucial to acknowledge the psychological toll on patients without answers, highlighting the profound impact of chronic pain. Q: You mentioned how emotionally draining the journey was. What advice do you have for clinicians to support patients? A: Remind patients that recovery is an “ultramarathon, not a sprint.” Reinforce this message, as other healthcare professionals will likely echo it. Sometimes, when my wife is in pain, she doesn’t want to discuss it, and that’s acceptable as long as I am there to support her. The doctor’s validation, “How’s it feel to not be crazy?” significantly improved her emotional well-being. Supporting patients in seeking further opinions is also vital. Q: Overlapping issue on a personal level, how did you navigate the multiple diagnoses? A: My ability to navigate this well stems from my access to top medical professionals through my profession. My connections as an athletic trainer allowed me to consult doctors and seek referrals. While they may not know specific TOS treatments, they can guide us to the appropriate specialists. Q: Any difficulties separating the Athletic Trainer (AT) role from the husband role? A: There were no difficulties in separating the AT from the husband role. My wife knew me as both from the beginning of our relationship, so there was no separation or conflict. Contact Us Jeremy Jackson Benjamin Stephenson Layci Harrison Mark Knoblauch Ashlyne Elliott Leslie Bennett Sponsor List Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products. Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast. Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school) HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration, ...
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    22 min
  • Nutrition Timing Planning and Gastrointestinal Maladies

    Nutrition Timing Planning and Gastrointestinal Maladies
    Dec 10 2025
    Expert insights on athlete nutrition timing: GI issues, RED-S, PCOS, and fueling strategies. Learn about tailored snack recommendations. Q: What recommendations do you have for athletes experiencing amenorrhea or relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S)? A (Dr. Curtis): While not a typical GI condition, amenorrhea and RED-S require a multidisciplinary approach. Often, medication is prescribed to induce a period, but this does not resolve underlying hormone imbalances or decreased bone density. These conditions frequently arise from an athlete’s energy deficiency, such as a marathon runner not increasing fuel intake to match activity, leading the body to prioritize survival over non-essential functions like menstruation. Q: How can athletes add more fuel to help resolve amenorrhea? A (Poole): It’s a myth that athletes should not get their period; it is not normal. Addressing overall energy intake is crucial. In severe cases, decreasing activity while increasing fuel might be necessary. We often work with athletes who are injured or returning to sport, which provides an opportune time to address their fueling needs. Q: How do you address athletes dealing with PCOS and stress fractures? A (Dr. Curtis): The culture of sports often pressures athletes toward specific body images or weight classes, which is unhealthy. We must educate athletes that a balanced diet is acceptable and that restrictive diets are not always necessary. Coaches also play a role in fostering a healthier environment. Q: How do you approach discussing sensitive topics like nutrition and body image with athletes? A (Dr. Curtis): As a former pediatric sports medicine doctor, I learned the importance of creating a trusting and safe environment. While it’s harder to have parents leave the room now in full sports medicine, fostering trust is key. A (Poole): We focus on the athlete’s performance goals, as health often isn’t the primary motivator for adolescents. We seek out what truly motivates them to achieve their best performance through proper nutrition. Q: What are the best snack recommendations for athletes? A (Bri Poole): Snack recommendations are highly individualized based on what works and what an athlete enjoys. Simple, easily digestible options like GoGo Squeez are generally safe choices. Q: Are there specific snacks you recommend for gastrointestinal (GI) comfort during exercise? A (Dr. Curtis): I don’t have specific go-to snacks; the focus is on what an individual athlete likes and what doesn’t cause GI distress. Suggesting foods they are unwilling to eat can lead to non-compliance. A (Poole): Simple carbohydrates are typically easy on the GI system around exercise. It’s best to stick with foods the athlete has consumed before. Liquid carbohydrates can be a good option as they may sit better for some. While many believe “sugar is bad,” simple sugars are the body’s preferred fuel source during exercise. Q: Should athletes track their food intake? A (Poole): Some athletes have higher or different energy needs, even if they aren’t playing intensely. Athletes generally have elevated caloric demands. It’s perfectly fine for them to eat snacks, especially when readily available, such as on the sidelines. Q: How do you approach nutrition planning for athletes from diverse cultural backgrounds or those who observe religious practices like Ramadan? A (Poole): Always approach with an open and curious mindset. Ask questions to understand cultural practices better, especially regarding fuel timing within non-fasting windows. Work closely with the athlete to create a tailored plan. A (Dr. Curtis): Meet athletes where they are; you cannot simply forbid them from fasting. I am willing to write letters to coaches if training times need to be adjusted to accommodate an athlete’s practices, ensuring they can continue to play safely. Q: How does pre-exercise nutrition differ for a morning lift versus a morning run? A (Poole): Many runners prefer not to eat before a run. For shorter runs (e.g., 5 miles or 3k), it can be acceptable if the athlete had sufficient fuel the day prior and will refuel adequately post-run. However, for exercise lasting 50-90 minutes or longer, pre-exercise fuel is essential, particularly for running due to its impact on bone resorption. The specific goals of the runner (e.g., marathon training) also influence recommendations. Contact Us Jeremy Jackson Benjamin Stephenson Layci Harrison Mark Knoblauch Ashlyne Elliott Leslie Bennett Sponsor List Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products. Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast. Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school) HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration, DRINK HOIST MedBridge Education – Use “TheSMB” to save some money, be entered in a drawing for a second year free, and support the podcast. Marc Pro – Use “...
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    27 min
  • Emergency Preparedness

    Emergency Preparedness
    Nov 26 2025
    Learn about emergency preparedness in youth sports, focusing on cardiac safety, the Project Adam initiative, and the status of the “Heartsafe” program with Tom Woods. Q: What is the 10-second version of focusing on cardiac emergency preparedness? A: Review statistics on sudden death in young athletes. Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death. Target the most likely areas where incidents occur and prioritize time and equipment-sensitive responses. Q: How did the Damar Hamlin incident negatively impact perceptions of youth sports safety? A: Some may falsely believe youth athletes are inherently safe because a highly prepared incident was effectively managed in the NFL. However, youth settings lack the extensive resources and numerous providers available in professional sports. This incident highlights the need to increase effective response capabilities and empower more individuals to provide care. Q: Is youth sports a bigger industry or does it bring in more money? A: When including grassroots sports, the financial investment in youth sports is substantial. It is crucial to make reasonable investments in equipment, procedures, and policies that maximize safety and efficient use of time to ensure overall safety. Q: Do club sports typically have athletic trainers (ATs) or automated external defibrillators (AEDs)? A: This is a critical point; clubs should invest more in youth safety. Efforts like Bob Marley’s network aim to bring ATs to these settings. More needs to be done beyond large tournaments, extending to daily operations, especially given that larger clubs may have many teams practicing simultaneously. Q: What steps are needed for club sports to align on safety protocols? A: Project Adam and recent legislation offer programs specifically designed to make youth sports cardiac safe. These initiatives provide a framework for clubs to enhance their emergency preparedness. Q: What are the specifics of Project Adam? A: Our school became involved with Project Adam after recognizing areas needing attention in our setting. It offers a systematic approach to achieving cardiac safety. Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH) is an affiliate site for Project Adam, providing numerous resources. Q: Why might Project Adam not be widely known? A: The exact reason is unclear. However, presentations like this provide an opportunity to spread the message. Discussions with directors at TCH and Cook Children’s indicate that some areas, like Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), are more involved. We need to disseminate this information, especially with increased requirements for cardiac responsiveness. Q: How do schools or districts achieve “Heartsafe” program status? A: Achieving “Heartsafe” status involves a step-by-step process through Project Adam. Organizations register, complete a checklist, and consult with directors and affiliate contacts for questions. Upon completion, they receive “Heartsafe school/program/district” designation. Q: Is the “Heartsafe” program similar to SafeSport and currently in process? A: Yes, it is similar to SafeSport and is an ongoing process. Q: What legislative action is impacting emergency preparedness? A: House bills have been passed and are expected to take effect on September 1st, following the governor’s signature. This legislation aims to enhance cardiac responsiveness. Contact Us Jeremy Jackson Benjamin Stephenson Layci Harrison Mark Knoblauch Ashlyne Elliott Leslie Bennett Sponsor List Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products. Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast. Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school) HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration, DRINK HOIST MedBridge Education – Use “TheSMB” to save some money, be entered in a drawing for a second year free, and support the podcast. Marc Pro – Use “THESMB” to recover better. Athletic Dry Needling – Save up to $100 when registering through our link.
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    17 min
  • Post-Operative Considerations in the Athletic Training Room

    Post-Operative Considerations in the Athletic Training Room
    Nov 12 2025

    Explore expert tips for post-operative ACL rehab, including avoiding pitfalls like lacking extension & recommended biofeedback units.

    Q: What is your favorite phase of post-operative care for ACL repair?

    A: Phase 2 is a favorite because the athlete is getting off the table, which is exciting both mentally and physically. During this phase, significant gains are made, and progress continues toward returning to running.

    Q: What is your biggest tip to avoid pitfalls, such as lacking extension, in post-operative care?

    A: Consistently checking and actively feeling for extension daily is crucial. Make it a habit and an integrated part of the treatment flow to catch any issues early. Even a little bit of load when athletes start doing more of their daily activities can affect extension, so early detection is key.

    Q: Is lacking extension from one treatment to the next a red flag?

    A: It is not necessarily a red flag, but it should definitely be noted. This observation prompts consideration of what might have changed between sessions that could have caused the lack of extension. For example, it might indicate that too much activity was introduced.

    Q: Should fibular head mobilizations be immediately used for lacking extension?

    A: No, one should not immediately jump to using fibular head mobilizations. However, they can be a successful intervention in certain cases.

    Q: Can this ACL rehabilitation program be used for other surgeries?

    A: The framework of this ACL rehabilitation program can definitely serve as a guide for other knee surgeries. However, modifications are necessary based on the specific structures that have been surgically altered. For example, a meniscus repair would require avoiding weight-bearing, unlike an isolated ACL reconstruction.

    Q: What biofeedback units do you recommend?

    A: I recommend Mtrigger. It’s an app-based unit with an easy setup, and it can be used more functionally beyond just table exercises. Additionally, it is versatile and can be applied in various other post-operative cases.

    Contact Us

    Jeremy Jackson

    Benjamin Stephenson

    Layci Harrison

    Mark Knoblauch

    Ashlyne Elliott

    Leslie Bennett

    Sponsor List

    Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products.

    Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast.

    Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school)

    HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration, DRINK HOIST

    MedBridge Education – Use “TheSMB” to save some money, be entered in a drawing for a second year free, and support the podcast.

    Marc Pro – Use “THESMB” to recover better.

    Athletic Dry Needling – Save up to $100 when registering through our link.
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    8 min
  • Chest Injuries and Emergencies

    Chest Injuries and Emergencies
    Oct 29 2025
    Get insights on chest injuries & emergencies from ER physician Dr. Dacia Ticas. Learn about red flags and vital info for athletic trainers. Q: What drew you to emergency medicine, particularly regarding chest injuries and emergencies? A: I liked everything and wasn’t sure what to commit to. Emergency medicine allowed me to experience a bit of everything, including a wide range of chest injuries. Q: As an ER physician, what makes you nervous, especially concerning severe chest injuries in children? A: Pulseless children are concerning. Severe cases with children, such as swelling or edema of the airway where a cricothyrotomy might be necessary, are also very serious. Q: For athletic training, what are red flags indicating something is truly wrong with an athlete, beyond just being out of shape, regarding potential chest injuries? A: Being out of shape typically presents as shortness of breath without actual struggle or severe chest pain. Red flags for chest injuries include pale or cyanotic appearance, complaints of severe chest pain, and a visible struggle to breathe. Q: Is an on-field ultrasound something athletic trainers can perform, or is a physician required for assessing chest injuries? A: A physician would be required. While we wish it were seen more often, on-field ultrasound has tremendous value in clarifying life-threatening chest injuries. Q: As athletic trainers are the initial contact for chest injuries, what essential information do you need from us? A: We will conduct our routine workup regardless. Key information includes what actually happened—e.g., getting hit in the throat versus the chest—whether they collapsed or lost consciousness, and how the patient initially presented and communicated their complaints. Q: What kind of chest injuries might take a day or two to fully manifest or be definitively diagnosed? A: Cardiac and pulmonary contusions can take time to develop. Life-threatening issues are typically identified through labs on the day of the incident. Q: Can you explain Commotio cordis in the context of chest injuries? A: Commotio cordis involves the ventricles going out of whack due to a flux of ions being disrupted, which is a chemical issue. This happens in a fraction of a second, as highlighted by the Damar Hamlin incident, which brought athletic training to the forefront for chest injuries. Q: When an athlete experiences chest pain after a hard tackle, when is immediate removal necessary, and when can we “wait and see” for bigger issues related to chest injuries? A: Often, if you ask an athlete if they can return to play a few plays later, they might indicate they cannot or develop a specific spot of noticeable pain. Lingering pain for a few plays, rather than generalized pain, may be a sign for removal due to a bigger issue, particularly with chest injuries. Q: Could you share a surprising ER story related to chest injuries? A: There are many stories. Early in my career, seeing a 4×4 through a chest wall, yet the internal organs were intact, was shocking. As I progressed, medical mysteries became more enticing. DJ Harden’s aortic injury after a chest hit, and assessing patient consciousness and bilateral pulse equality, are all crucial in emergency medicine for chest injuries. Contact Us Jeremy Jackson Benjamin Stephenson Layci Harrison Mark Knoblauch Ashlyne Elliott Leslie Bennett Sponsor List Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products. Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast. Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school) HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration, DRINK HOIST MedBridge Education – Use “TheSMB” to save some money, be entered in a drawing for a second year free, and support the podcast. Marc Pro – Use “THESMB” to recover better. Athletic Dry Needling – Save up to $100 when registering through our link.
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    15 min
  • Guided Practice

    Guided Practice
    Oct 15 2025

    Guided practice was the theme for Chris Greenleaf and Mary Williams as they joined Ben and Jeremy at the Sports Medicine Update. Being a preceptor is a growing experience, and the best way I know to grow is to ask experts how they do it.

    Contact Us

    Jeremy Jackson

    Benjamin Stephenson

    Layci Harrison

    Mark Knoblauch

    Ashlyne Elliott

    Leslie Bennett

    Sponsor List

    Frio Hydration – Superior Hydration products.

    Xothrm – Best heating pad available – Use “SMB” or email info@xothrm.com and mention the Sports Medicine Broadcast.

    Donate and get some swag (like Patreon but for the school)

    HOIST – No matter your reason for dehydration, DRINK HOIST

    MedBridge Education – Use “TheSMB” to save some money, be entered in a drawing for a second year free, and support the podcast.

    Marc Pro – Use “THESMB” to recover better.

    Athletic Dry Needling – Save up to $100 when registering through our link.
    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    47 min