This episode of the University Orthopedics PT Podcast with Dan Bien explores the complex and often overlooked factors contributing to running injuries in female athletes, with expert insights from Rachel Lampros, PT, DPT, MS, SCS and Amy Devaney, PT, DPT, OCS.
Together, they delve into multifactorial cultural issues—from limited access to sports medicine and the residual gaps post-Title IX, to the pressures of social media and body image. The discussion highlights the lack of gender-specific research, the physiological and hormonal nuances that impact injury risk, and the importance of tailored strength and conditioning programs.
Topics such as Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S), bone stress injuries, and the use of tools like BFR therapy and wearables are also unpacked. Backed by peer-reviewed publications and frontline clinical experience, this conversation is a must-watch for anyone invested in advancing care and performance for female athletes.
Topics Covered:
1. MULTIFACTORIAL CULTURAL ISSUES PLAYING INTO FEMALE ATHLETE INJURIES (3:55)
- Lack of resources/access
- Title 9 and the trickle-down effect to Sports Medicine
- Social media influence- quality of information, body image
- Strength training
2. ISSUES WITH FEMALE ATHLETE RESEARCH AND INFO (10:28)
- Increase in adolescent female injury rates and related issues, suggestions for clinical focus
- Injury demographic differences versus males
- Hormonal physiology differences
- Gendered research is limited
- Need for different approaches with strength and conditioning for females
- Education and balancing recovery
3. RELATIVE ENERGY DEFICIENCY SYNDROME (RED-S) (24:30)
- Definition and at-risk population/risk factors/onset
- Info gathering and soft skills. Discussing sleep, diet, etc.
- Red Flags/Risk Factor Screening for RED-S
4. BONE STRESS INJURY (38:40)
- Clinical Presentation
- Common injury locations
- Treatment and Rehab/Recovery Timeframes
- Understanding biomechanical contributors
- Importance of palpation and bony tenderness
- BFR implementation
- Technology/wearables
About Dan Bien
Dan Bien is a physical therapist at our Kettle Point Campus in East Providence. Dan has worked at University Orthopedics since 2006 and serves as the Coordinator of Clinical Education for the physical therapy department.
Dan is currently recognized as an Orthopedic Certified Specialist by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and a Credentialed Clinical Instructor by the American Physical Therapy Association.
