Why do so many athletes—from weekend warriors and high school soccer players to professional athletes—re-tear their ACLs despite doing all the right rehab protocols, biking, and strength work? In this episode, Jennifer Spitz, PT, shares her pet peeves regarding standard ACL recovery and uncovers the critical anatomical key that is routinely overlooked: the subtalar joint and the talus bone.

Jennifer walks through real-world case studies—including a New Zealand rugby player with three failed ACL repairs, a multimillion-dollar professional athlete in Boston, and her own brother recovering from a severe skiing accident—to demonstrate how an anteriorly shifted talus (stuck ankle joint) causes chronic knee shearing with every step.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The Talus & Subtalar Connection: Why true ankle dorsiflexion is vital for preventing knee torque and ACL tears.
• Why Traditional Stretching Isn't Enough: How fascial restrictions behind the knee (popliteal fossa) and trigger points in the calf block full extension.
• Case Studies in Action: Real stories from rugby, pro sports, and skiing recovery that prove strength work alone can't fix joint mechanics.
• Proactive Injury Prevention: Practical tips for parents of soccer players, skiers, and dancers to safeguard growing knees during growth spurts.
• Advanced Manual Techniques: Overview of Strain-Counterstrain (Larry Jones technique) and myofascial release for lower leg restrictions.

Disclaimer: The hands-on techniques and information shared in this podcast are intended to complement the care you receive from your primary healthcare providers—never to replace primary or emergency medical care.

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Visit parentbodywork.com for resources, podcast episodes, and training programs.
• Are you a PT, athletic trainer, or practitioner? Check out the Lower Extremity Class at jenniferspitzpt.com for joint testing protocols and the talus adjustment technique.
• Boston locals: Explore our in-person Parent Treatment Intensives to learn hands-on osteopathic skills for your family.

The content provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, physical therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health goals. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this show.

CONNECT & RESOURCES

10-Week Nervous System Foundational Exercise Program: and current home of The Parent Bodywork Project..

Official Website: jenniferspitzpt.com

New Project Coming Soon: parentbodywork.com