What Is OCD (Osteochondritis Dissecans) and how does nutrition play a role for your gymnast?

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most misunderstood overuse injuries in gymnastics. OCD, or Osteochondritis Dissecans, and how nutrition plays a powerful role in both prevention and recovery. Parents, if you’ve ever wondered whether your gymnast’s elbow or knee pain could be related to underfueling, this is a must-listen.

We’ll start by breaking down why gymnasts are at higher risk for OCD compared to other athletes. It’s not just the pounding on joints. It’s the combination of intense training volume, early specialization, and often, inadequate nutrition for the demands of the sport.

And we'll discuss how this injury happens in gymnasts and answer one of the biggest questions parents have: Is it overtraining or underfueling? The truth is, both play a role. When the body doesn’t get enough energy or nutrients, bone and cartilage lose their ability to keep up with repetitive impact, setting the stage for breakdown and injury.

✨ Ready to learn more? Tune in as we dive deep on this dreaded diagnosis, and hear more about how nutrition plays a part in prevention and recovery from OCD for your gymnast.

In this episode you'll hear about:

• What Is OCD (Osteochondritis Dissecans) and who is at risk?
• The role nutrition plays: why fueling literally determines healing.
• Return to sport and what parents must understand about progressing safely back to training once cleared

Links & Resources

• ROCKET Elbow OCD
• Dave Tilley and SHIFT Movement Science
• Dr. Ian Crider The Gymnastics Doc
• The Balanced Gymnast® Program for level 5-10 female gymnasts
• Connect with Christina on Instagram @the.gymnast.nutritionist or christinaandersonrdn.com