In this episode, Grace welcomes Boulder-based physical therapist Charlie Merrill for a deep dive into how chronic pain shows up in athletes—and why it’s often misunderstood. They unpack the science behind pain, how emotional stress plays a role, and what it really takes to heal.
Covered in this episode:
- Why athletes are often overlooked in chronic pain treatment
- How Charlie shifted from traditional PT to a mind-body approach
- The brain’s role in interpreting pain (hint: it’s not all about injury)
- Why MRI results can create fear—even when they don’t match symptoms
- How identity and perfectionism play into athletic pain
- What “sacred symptoms” are and how pain can guide deeper insight
- Tips for reconnecting to joy and movement without fear
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