Finding Small Wins

Science of Stretch, Biomechanics of Shoes, and Injury Risk with Dr. Leada Malek

Episode Summary

For exclusive podcast details, head on over to www.AdamLoiacono.com Dr. Leada Malek, a board certified sports physical therapist, shares her origin story and how she started offering free virtual sessions during the pandemic. She talks about the importance of setting goals and tailoring treatment plans to meet the individual needs of each client. Leada also discusses her involvement in designing a shoe campaign for Adidas and providing insights on shoe wear in the fitness world. Additionally, she wrote a book titled 'The Science of Stretch' that simplifies anatomy and physiology for a broader audience. In this conversation, Leada Malek, a physical therapist and author, discusses her experience writing a book on stretching and the misconceptions surrounding flexibility and instruction. She shares how she was approached by a publisher to write the book and why she decided to take on the project. Leada explains the process of writing the book and the challenges she faced in addressing common questions and myths about stretching. She also emphasizes the importance of understanding injury risk reduction rather than injury prevention and the need for individualized approaches in physical therapy. Leada provides advice for those considering physical therapy and highlights the small wins and joys of working with athletes.

Episode Notes

For exclusive podcast details, head on over to www.AdamLoiacono.com

 

Setting goals and tailoring treatment plans are essential in physical therapy to meet the individual needs of each client.

Understanding shoe wear in the fitness world is crucial for optimizing performance and preventing injuries.

The design of a shoe should consider factors such as heel drop, cushioning, and stability to match the specific activity or sport.

Simplifying anatomy and physiology can help a broader audience understand the science behind stretching and movement. Flexibility and instruction have often been misunderstood and taken a bad rap, but they can be effective when approached with the right knowledge and understanding.

Writing a book on stretching allowed Leada to address common questions and misconceptions about stretching and provide a comprehensive guide for readers.

Injury risk reduction is a more accurate term than injury prevention, as it acknowledges that injuries can still occur but can be minimized through various factors.

Understanding load management and individualized approaches are key in injury risk reduction and optimizing performance.

Small wins, such as inspiring someone to try physical therapy or completing a project, can be meaningful and motivating in the journey of healthcare and entrepreneurship.