The Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I answer one of the questions I frequently get from new needlers: “What are the reasons behind excessive post-needle soreness?” I made a short but comprehensive list to provide practical tips for managing post-needle soreness. From targeting the root cause rather than just the symptoms of muscle discomfort, to mastering needling techniques and avoiding...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Johannes Roedl, an esteemed musculoskeletal specialist and interventional radiologist who breaks down the differences between MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and ultrasound imaging, as well as his insights on deciding between PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and stem cell treatments to best meet his patients’ needs. We also get into his...

In this episode, I dive into shoulder impingement, sharing valuable tips and secrets I’ve learned over the years about how to better evaluate patients and reach a diagnostic approach faster. With the help of Shanon, a staff member here at Primal Physical Therapy, I demonstrate shoulder motion patterns in standing, sitting, and lying down positions to identify her shoulder impingement issues. By an...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I sit down with Mike Moor, aka Mindset Mike, a renowned mindset coach for athletes. He shares his journey as a D1 wrestler to working with the FBI & CIA to becoming an athlete mindset coach. Mike talks about principles for achieving one's best self, the "Me vs Me" concept in sports, and the three levels of athlete mindsets. He also discusses the A....

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, we take everything we learned in Part 1 about the Pistoning Technique and apply it in a live lab demonstration. If you missed Part 1, be sure to check it out to learn about the Pros and ons of Estim vs. Pistoning and when to use each method for best results. In Part 2, I explain why we at Primal Physical Therapy prioritize the Pistoning Technique for e...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, this is Part 1 of discussing the two common approaches in dry needling: Estim and Pistoning.  Join me as I break down the pros and cons of each method and knowing when and why to use them for the best results. Whether you're a practitioner or a patient looking for innovative treatment methods, this episode offers practical insights on how these techniq...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I sit down with Sean O’Malley, owner of Ardor & Grit Performance Coaching to dive into the inspiring topic of overcoming setbacks. Sean shares his journey from facing numerous injuries as a college wrestler to discovering his passion for performance training. He started by helping his wrestling team and now trains with UFC fighters, boxers, and hig...

Effectively discovering the true source of pain means exploring beyond the obvious. In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I dive into the fascinating clinical scenario of Jon Runyan Jr., a former offensive lineman for the Green Bay Packers and current player for the New York Giants. This case highlights the importance of asking the right questions that lead to effective treatment. Listen i...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I sit down with Jameer Nelson, a 14-year NBA veteran and the GM of the Delaware Blue Coats.  Jameer takes us through his early years leading up to the NBA, his role as the General Manager of the Delaware Blue Coats, and the unique perspective he brings as a former athlete to mentor his players. Join us as Jameer shares lessons on leadership, mentorship...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I give you exclusive insights from our latest Dry Needling Master Class. You’ll discover essential tips and tricks to enhance your needling techniques and become a more effective, efficient, and safer practitioner. We'll spotlight needle redirection, a valuable yet often overlooked skill for new needlers. Throughout the class, we go into the importance...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I dive into the important topic of BALANCE. Throughout this video, I’ll guide you through tests to pinpoint balance issues beyond the ankles and share effective exercises to improve stability from the hips to the ankles. Whether you’re working with an athlete recovering from a sprained ankle or helping an elderly person stay steady on their feet, I’ve...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I share three proven methods that physical therapists use to diagnose sciatica pain effectively. From understanding the specific symptoms to utilizing state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, I break down each method to help you recognize the best approach for managing your condition. I'm here to guide you through the complexities of sciatica, ensuring you'r...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I sit down with the remarkable Doug Adams, a distinguished Physical Therapist who specializes in running analysis. We dive deep into gait analysis and explore RunDNA to enhance athletic performance and reduce injury risks. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in improving their running performance and overall health. Join us to discover h...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, we dive into the vital topic of dry needling for clinicians, exploring the best educational paths to enhance their skills. I provide an in-depth look at the best programs, emphasizing accreditation, quality of instruction, and clinical application. We'll explore what makes a dry needling course stand out, ensuring you make an informed decision for your...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, we dive deep into the complexities of tennis elbow, a condition that often becomes a chronic struggle for many. I share my insights on the mechanical and neurological factors that contribute to this persistent pain, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to treatment. My goal is to help you and your patients find more effective paths to...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I'm honored to sit down with Joey and Drew from Few Will Hunt, a brand that transcends the boundaries of a mere apparel company to embody a lifestyle of purpose, hard work, and community. We dive deep into the heart of entrepreneurship, exploring how the challenges and triumphs of building a business from the ground up can lead to profound personal gro...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, we dive deep into the heart of resilience, determination, and the power of a positive mindset with the incredible Amanda Leve. We discuss the importance of mental preparation, the role of support systems, and the power of perseverance through injuries and setbacks. This episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the importance of a...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I take you through a compelling case study of Max Livingston, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu athlete who faced a challenging rib injury. Through a blend of cutting-edge treatments like laser therapy, dry needling, and meticulously tailored exercises, we navigated the path from pain to peak performance. Join us as we explore the intricacies of sports injuries an...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, we explore the critical issue of misdiagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome through the compelling story of a patient facing potentially unnecessary surgery for hand numbness. Dr. JJ Thomas demonstrates the importance of a thorough diagnostic process, revealing how comprehensive evaluations and treatments like dry needling can uncover and address the true so...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, Dr. JJ dives into how she helped Penn State Lacrosse player, Kyle Lehman, overcome a challenging hamstring injury. Dr. JJ shares the innovative treatment strategies that facilitated his rapid hamstring recovery, emphasizing the effectiveness of dry needling and tailored rehabilitation exercises. The goal for all athletes is to get them safely back to p...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, Dr. JJ dives into the transformative journey of a Jiu-Jitsu athlete who faced a daunting ankle injury just days before a major competition. Dr. JJ's approach is not just about quick fixes but understanding the intricate anatomy involved, ensuring a holistic and sustainable return to sport. This episode is a testament to the power of targeted physical t...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Arash from the Prehab Guys, who are revolutionizing the world of physical therapy with their proactive approach to patient care. We dive deep into the importance of prehabilitation and how the Prehab Guys have made significant strides in making comprehensive, preventive care accessible to the public. Join us...

In this episode of The Dr. JJ Thomas Show, we dive deep into the transformative world of Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training with my dear friend and BFR expert, Kyle Kimbrell. We explore the science behind BFR and its remarkable benefits for rehabilitation and strength training and share personal insights on its application in clinical practice. As a passionate advocate for evidence-based treatm...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jeff Moore, CEO of the Institute of Clinical Excellence (ICE), about the transformative power of specialized physical therapy and the importance of leading from the healthcare front. We dive into the evolution of physical therapy practices, emphasizing the need for therapists to find their niche and excel in it. We a...

In this episode of the Dr. JJ Thomas Podcast, Dr. JJ Thomas engages in a deeply insightful conversation with Dr. Goodman, the founder of Foundations Training. They delve into the transformative impact of Foundations Training on movement patterns, offering both clinicians and patients a new perspective on managing pain and improving physical function. This episode is a must-watch for clinicians and...