In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones welcomes Erica Marcano, a seasoned certified athletic trainer and strength coach, for an in-depth discussion on the changing landscape of athletic training and rehabilitation.

The conversation centers on the importance of adopting a biopsychosocial approach to recovery—one that recognizes the interconnected roles of physical health, mental well-being, and social support in an athlete’s rehabilitation journey. Erica emphasizes how community and support systems can profoundly influence outcomes, advocating for athletes to actively participate and take ownership of their recovery process.

Key topics include the high prevalence of ACL injuries among women, with Erica shedding light on both the physiological and societal factors contributing to this trend. The episode also explores the growing challenge of tendinopathies in modern sports, highlighting the need for up-to-date, evidence-based strategies in both prevention and treatment.

Throughout the discussion, Erica stresses the significance of advocacy—not only for athletes’ immediate recovery but for their long-term health and well-being. She encourages athletes and practitioners alike to champion a more holistic, empowering approach to rehabilitation, ensuring that recovery is not just about returning to play, but thriving beyond it.

Erica's links:

Website: https://www.thenotoriousatc.com

Instagram: @notorious.atc

Dana’s Links:

https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.