
Andrew Rizza, MS, ATC, LAT, PTA
Creator and Host
Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast was created to discuss the ever-changing landscape in healthcare, physical therapy, athletic training and sports science. Each week we will discuss the barriers that healthcare professionals and the consumer face and how we as individuals can collaborate to make the listeners better understand the industry for a better patient and athlete experience.

Cameron Roth, MD, MHS
Co- Host
Hand & Upper Extremity Surgeon
OrthoArizona
Dr Roth is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand, wrist, and upper extremity surgery. He completed his Orthopaedic surgical residency at the University of Chicago, as well as additional fellowship subspeciality training in upper extremity surgery at Harvard and an international fellowship in complex shoulder reconstruction in Bern, Switzerland. He is a peer-reviewer for The Journal of Hand Surgery and also serves as a consultant to the MLB’s Chicago White Sox.
Episodes

Monday Dec 23, 2024
Monday Dec 23, 2024
Dr. Michael Beasley, a primary care sports medicine physician, discusses his experience in the field and the different paths to becoming a sports medicine doctor. He emphasizes the importance of having a multidisciplinary team in sports medicine and the need for collaboration between primary care sports medicine and orthopedic surgery. Dr. Beasley also shares his passion for baseball medicine and the challenges of managing injuries in young baseball players. He highlights the importance of educating athletes and their families about the risks of overtraining and the need for proper mechanics and strength training. Dr. Beasley discusses the importance of balance and control in shoulder injuries and the need for comprehensive sports medicine programs. They also touch on the evolving understanding and treatment of concussions, the role of sleep in recovery, and the need for improved musculoskeletal education for primary care physicians.
Takeaways
- Primary care sports medicine is a multidisciplinary field that requires collaboration between different specialties.
- Having a team approach, including athletic trainers, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals, is crucial in providing comprehensive care for athletes.
- Baseball medicine is a passion for Dr. Beasley, and he emphasizes the importance of proper mechanics and strength training in preventing injuries in young baseball players.
- Overtraining and excessive volume of throwing can lead to elbow injuries in baseball players, and it is important to educate athletes and their families about the risks.
- Prevention and early intervention are key in managing sports injuries and optimizing performance. Shoulder injuries require balance and control to restore stability and function.
- Comprehensive sports medicine programs that offer a range of services are essential for athletes' recovery and performance.
- The understanding and treatment of concussions have evolved over time, emphasizing the importance of safe activity and individualized care.
- Sleep plays a crucial role in recovery from injuries, including concussions.
- There is a need for improved musculoskeletal education for primary care physicians to better diagnose and treat sports-related injuries.
If you found today's episode engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #ATIPT, #athletictraining #physicaltherapy #sportsscience #orthopedics #atom

Monday Dec 09, 2024
Monday Dec 09, 2024
"CrossFit Games Orthopedic Surgeon" Episode 16 of @behind_sports_med_podcast with @321gomd Dr. Sean Rockett, a senior partner at Orthopedics New England and head orthopedic surgeon for the @crossfitgames CrossFit Games, shares his journey to becoming an orthopedic surgeon and his passion for sports medicine. He discusses the common injuries seen in CrossFit and emphasizes the importance of staying in your lane and avoiding the temptation to chase numbers. Dr. Rockett also talks about the potential for CrossFit to be included in the Olympics and the value of mentorship in his career. He concludes by mentioning his website and e-book, which provide resources for patients seeking information about orthopedic injuries.
Take aways:
1. Stay in your lane and avoid chasing numbers in CrossFit to prevent injuries.
2. CrossFit has a lower injury rate per thousand training hours compared to other sports like running, soccer, and basketball.
3. Mentorship is important for personal and professional growth in the medical field.
4. Dr. Rockett's website and e-book provide resources for patients seeking information about orthopedic injuries.
If you enjoy our content, show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #athletictraining #physicaltherapy #sportsscience #crossfit

Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
“From Track Star to Sports Medicine Entrepreneur” Tune into Episode 15 of The Behind the Sports Medicine Podcast with Founder of Collins Sports Medicine @collins_sports_medicine Walter L Collins @wallycol. Wally shares his journey in the medical sales industry and how the business evolved from a small family operation to a leader in sports medicine supply and durable goods sales. The key to their success was building strong relationships with customers and providing exceptional service. They focused on understanding the needs of athletic trainers and offering comprehensive solutions for their facilities. This approach set them apart from competitors and allowed them to work with prestigious clients like the New Engalnd Patriots, Minnesota Vikings and Houston Rockets. Facility design became a significant part of their business, further establishing their reputation in the industry. The conversation between Wally and Andrew covers various topics related to their business and industry. They discuss the importance of going the extra mile for customers and building strong relationships. They also talk about the challenges of staying ahead of competitors like Amazon and Medco. Walter shares his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of being a people person and going the extra mile. They also share some fun stories from their past experiences.
If you enjoy our content, show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode. #NATA, #APTA, #athletictraining #physicaltherapy #sportsscience

Monday Nov 11, 2024
Monday Nov 11, 2024
"Evidence Based Practice and Physical Therapy" Tune into Episode 14 on November the 11th with Senior Vice President of Clinical Excellence for ATI Physical Therapy, Dr. Charles Thigpen, PhD, PT, ATC.
Dr. Chuck Thigpen, Senior Vice President of Clinical Excellence for ATI Physical Therapy, discusses evidence-based practice and the future of physical therapy. He highlights the importance of collecting outcomes data and using it to improve clinical care. He also discusses the shift from fee-for-service to value-based care and the role of technology in delivering care. Dr. Thigpen envisions physical therapy becoming the primary point of care for musculoskeletal conditions and emphasizes the need for consistent processes and high-quality care.
Takeaways
1. Collecting outcomes data is crucial for improving clinical care and demonstrating value.
2. The shift from fee-for-service to value-based care is underway in physical therapy.
3. Technology, such as telehealth and remote monitoring, can enhance the delivery of care.
4. Mentorship and career development opportunities are important for attracting and retaining quality therapists.
5. Physical therapy has the potential to become the primary point of care for musculoskeletal conditions.
If you found today's episode engaging, please show your support by liking, commenting, and sharing it on social media. Access all our episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Stay updated by following us on Instagram @behind_sports_med_podcast, on X @ajrsportssci, or by visiting our websites at ajrsportsscience.podbean.com and AJRsportsscience.com. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel @ajr_sports_science for upcoming episodes. Thank you for your continued support, and stay tuned for our next episode.

Monday Oct 28, 2024
Monday Oct 28, 2024
Chris Troyanos, the Medical Coordinator for the Boston Marathon, discusses his journey as an athletic trainer and the challenges faced in the profession. He also delves into the intricate planning and medical coordination required for the marathon, as well as the standard of care for treating heat illness. The conversation highlights the evolving role of athletic trainers and the impact of climate change on endurance medicine. Chris Troyanos discusses the medical coordination and setup for the Boston Marathon, as well as his role in working with sports medicine consultants and rapid response gators. The conversation also delves into the challenges and rewards of a career in athletic training, with a focus on the impact and future of the profession.
Takeaways
- The evolving role of athletic trainers in the field of sports medicine.
- The intricate planning and medical coordination required for large-scale events like the Boston Marathon.
- The impact of climate change on endurance medicine and the challenges it presents for athletic trainers.
- The standard of care for treating heat illness and the importance of advocating for best practices in athletic training. The Boston Marathon medical setup involves coordination with multiple cities and towns, strategically placed medical stations, and rapid response teams.
- Chris Troyanos' role in sports medicine consultants and the development of rapid response gators has had a significant impact on event staffing and medical support.
- The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of a career in athletic training, emphasizing the need for balance, advocacy, and evolution within the profession.

Monday Oct 14, 2024
Monday Oct 14, 2024
Dr. Chad Starkey, professor and chair of the Department of Athletic Training at Ohio University, discusses his career in athletic training and the profession as a whole. He shares how he got into athletic training and his transition from clinical work to academia. The conversation also covers the evolution of the athletic training profession, including the shift from bachelor's to master's degrees and the benefits of pursuing a doctorate. Dr. Starkey highlights the importance of data and outcomes in athletic training and the need for better quantification of the profession's impact. The discussion concludes with an overview of Ohio University's Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) program and the courses offered. The conversation covers various topics related to the athletic training profession and the future of the profession. The hosts discuss the career choices of young individuals, the importance of continuing education, the recognition of the athletic training profession, and the potential challenges and opportunities in the future. They also touch on the financial state of the national organization and the need for better public education about the profession.
Takeaways
1. Dr. Chad Starkey shares his journey from playing football to becoming an athletic trainer and transitioning to academia.
2. The athletic training profession has evolved from bachelor's to master's degrees, and now there is a growing emphasis on pursuing a doctorate.
3. Data and outcomes are becoming increasingly important in athletic training, and there is a need for better quantification of the profession's impact.
4. Ohio University offers a Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) program that is 100% online and focuses on cost-effectiveness and flexibility. Career choices should be flexible and adaptable, as individuals may change their interests and goals over time.
5. Continuing education is important for professional growth and staying up-to-date with the latest knowledge and skills.
6. The athletic training profession may face challenges in terms of recognition and public understanding of the profession.
7. The financial state of the national organization may impact the future of the profession.
8. Better public education about the profession is needed to increase awareness and understanding.

Monday Sep 30, 2024
Monday Sep 30, 2024
Summary
Maura McCarthy, a retired athlete trainer and state police sergeant, shares her journey and the importance of mental health and well-being for young athletes. She discusses her transition from athletic training to becoming a state police officer and the challenges she faced. McCarthy also talks about her program, Athletes Better Together, which helps high school athletes transition into college athletics by providing group sessions, mentoring, and mental skill building. The program aims to prepare athletes for the challenges they may face in college and help them develop the necessary skills to navigate those challenges. Better Together is a platform that aims to support student-athletes in their transition from high school to college. The platform focuses on mental health and provides resources and mentorship to help athletes navigate the challenges they may face. The founders, Maura McCarthy, Dr. Kim O'Brien, and Daphne Faldy, have personal experiences and expertise in mental health, trauma, and athletics. They emphasize the importance of building connections, relationships, and bridges to create a support system for student-athletes. The goal is to prepare athletes mentally for the next level and provide them with the tools to handle adversity and maintain their well-being.
Takeaways:
1. Mental health and well-being are crucial for young athletes transitioning into college athletics.
2. Programs like Athletes Better Together provide support, guidance, and mentoring to help athletes navigate the challenges they may face.
3. Effective communication, self-advocacy, and understanding different perspectives are important skills for athletes to develop.
4. Athletic trainers play a vital role in the overall well-being of athletes and can provide valuable support and guidance. Better Together focuses on supporting student-athletes in their transition from high school to college.
5. The platform emphasizes mental health and provides resources and mentorship.
6. Building connections and relationships is crucial for student-athletes.
7. The goal is to prepare athletes mentally for the next level and provide them with the tools to handle adversity.

Monday Sep 16, 2024
Monday Sep 16, 2024
Dr. Zachary Fang from the Vascular Care Group discusses the procedure called GAE (Genicular Artery Embolization) for knee osteoarthritis. GAE is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the small blood vessels in the knee joint to block inflammation and reduce pain. It is an alternative for patients who want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery. The procedure can also be done for patients who have already had a knee replacement but still experience pain. GAE is suitable for patients with comorbidities who are not candidates for knee replacement. The procedure has low risks and can provide long-lasting pain relief. Dr. Zachary Fang discusses the recovery process after geniculate artery embolization (GAE) for knee osteoarthritis. He advises patients to take it easy for the first 48 hours after the procedure and gradually resume normal activities over the course of a week. Pain relief post-surgery is not immediate, but patients typically experience a 25% decrease in pain in the first week, followed by a 10% reduction each week for six weeks. The majority of improvement is seen by three months, and long-term data from Japan shows continued pain reduction even after two years. GAE is a potential alternative for patients who want to avoid knee replacement surgery. If patients experience discomfort again several months after the procedure, a repeat GAE can be considered after at least three months. Dr. Fang also mentions the possibility of using GAE for other weight-bearing joints like hips and shoulders in the future.
Takeaways
- GAE is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the small blood vessels in the knee joint to block inflammation and reduce pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
- GAE can be an alternative for patients who want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery.
- The procedure can also be done for patients who have already had a knee replacement but still experience pain.
- GAE is suitable for patients with comorbidities who are not candidates for knee replacement.
- The procedure has low risks and can provide long-lasting pain relief. After geniculate artery embolization (GAE) for knee osteoarthritis, patients should take it easy for the first 48 hours and gradually resume normal activities over a week.
- Pain relief after GAE is not immediate, but patients typically experience a 25% decrease in pain in the first week, followed by a 10% reduction each week for six weeks.
- The majority of improvement is seen by three months, and long-term data from Japan shows continued pain reduction even after two years.
- GAE is a potential alternative for patients who want to avoid knee replacement surgery, especially younger individuals still working in physically demanding fields.
If patients experience discomfort again several months after GAE, a repeat procedure can be considered after at least three months. - There is a possibility of using GAE for other weight-bearing joints like hips and shoulders in the future.