Which PHT Exercises Actually Reduce Pain with Aidan Rich - Overcoming Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy | Lyssna här

For all other PHT resources, go to: https://proximalhamstringtendinopathy.info/

Which PHT Exercises Actually Reduce Pain? with Aidan Rich

Isometric exercises have become one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for proximal hamstring tendinopathy (PHT). Many runners and health professionals use bridge holds in the hope of reducing pain, improving confidence, and making exercise more comfortable.

But what does the research actually say?

In this episode, I sit down with sports and exercise physiotherapist and recent PhD graduate Aidan Rich to discuss his latest study comparing isometric (static) and isotonic (movement-based) hamstring exercises for people with PHT.

Aidan has dedicated years of research to understanding proximal hamstring tendinopathy and shares some fascinating insights into what we know, what we don't know, and how current evidence should influence your rehabilitation decisions.

In this episode, you'll learn:

What isometric and isotonic exercises actually are
Why bridge holds became so popular in tendon rehabilitation
The groundbreaking research that sparked the "isometric pain relief" movement
Whether PHT sufferers experience the same pain-relieving effects seen in other tendon conditions
Why some people experience immediate symptom relief while others don't
The results of Aidan's randomized crossover trial comparing isometric and isotonic hamstring exercises
Whether one exercise type is superior for reducing pain, improving strength, or sitting tolerance
What the broader tendon research says about isometrics versus movement-based strengthening
Why progression and loading may be more important than exercise type
Common mistakes that keep people stuck in rehabilitation
When isometric exercises may still have a role in your recovery
Practical advice for runners who have been doing bridge holds for weeks or months without improvement

Key Takeaways

Isometric exercises are not necessarily superior to isotonic exercises for immediate pain relief in PHT.
Some individuals experience meaningful pain relief from tendon loading, while others notice very little change.
The current evidence suggests exercise progression and appropriate loading are likely more important than the specific contraction type used.
Long-term tendon rehabilitation should focus on gradually increasing strength and capacity rather than relying solely on static holds.
If your current rehab isn't working, it may be time to reassess your diagnosis, exercise dosage, loading strategy, or overall treatment plan.

About Aidan Rich

Aidan Rich is a sports and exercise physiotherapist based in Melbourne, Australia. He recently completed a PhD focused on the treatment of proximal hamstring tendinopathy and has worked extensively with endurance athletes, runners, and sporting organizations including Triathlon Australia and Athletics Australia. His research has helped expand our understanding of PHT and provides valuable guidance for clinicians and patients alike.

Resources Mentioned

Aidan Rich's study:
The Effect of Isotonic Versus Isometric Strength Exercise for Pain and Strength in Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy: A Randomized Crossover Trial

----------------------------------------------------------------
MEDICAL & EDUCATIONAL DISCLAIMER

The information provided in the Overcoming Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy (PHT) Podcast, YouTube channel, associated websites, social media, and other educational content produced by Brodie Sharpe is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to constitute, and should not be relied upon as, individual medical, physiotherapy, diagnostic or treatment advice.

Although Brodie Sharpe is a qualified physiotherapist, consuming this content does not establish a physiotherapist-patient or other healthcare professional-patient relationship. Any discussion of symptoms, diagnoses, rehabilitation strategies, exercises, loading programs, running modification, medications, supplements, injections, medical procedures or other treatment options is general in nature and may not be appropriate for your individual circumstances.

Musculoskeletal pain can have multiple causes, and symptoms that appear consistent with proximal hamstring tendinopathy or another tendon disorder may arise from other conditions. Appropriate assessment, diagnosis and treatment depend upon an individual's medical history, symptoms, examination findings, medications, health conditions, training history and other factors that cannot be adequately assessed through general online content.

Do not use this content as a substitute for assessment, diagnosis or treatment from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

Before starting, stopping or substantially modifying an exercise or rehabilitation program, medication, supplement, injection, procedure or other treatment discussed in this content, seek advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional who can consider your individual circumstances.

Exercise, rehabilitation and medical treatments carry inherent risks. These may include increased pain, symptom flare-ups, aggravation of an existing condition, new injury, adverse reactions or other complications. Individual responses vary and no particular outcome, improvement, recovery timeframe or return to sport can be guaranteed. If an activity or intervention causes significant, unusual or worsening symptoms, stop and seek appropriate professional advice.

References to research, clinical studies, treatment approaches, products or opinions of guests are provided for educational purposes. Scientific evidence evolves over time, may be incomplete or conflicting, and findings from research populations may not apply to every individual. Discussion of a treatment or product does not necessarily constitute an endorsement or recommendation for its use. Views expressed by podcast guests or other contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Brodie Sharpe.

To the extent permitted by applicable law, Brodie Sharpe and associated businesses, contractors and contributors accept no liability for loss, injury, damage or adverse outcomes arising from reliance upon or use of this general educational content. Nothing in this disclaimer is intended to exclude, restrict or modify any right, guarantee, remedy or liability that cannot lawfully be excluded, restricted or modified under applicable law.

If you believe you may have a serious injury or medical condition, or you develop severe, rapidly worsening or otherwise concerning symptoms, seek prompt assessment from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency, contact your local emergency service.

Rss Apple Podcaster