About The Climbing Doctor

The Climbing Doctor is passionate about preventing injuries and improving performance for all climbers.

Work Injuries Amongst Routesetters and Occupational Hazards

In this insightful presentation, physiotherapist Evelyne Lajoie explores the occupational risks and injury profiles associated with the profession of routesetting. Using data from a comprehensive web survey, Lajoie discusses common injury patterns, risk factors, and practical recommendations to enhance safety for routesetters. This presentation provides essential information for both employers and routesetters to [...]

By |2024-11-11T20:27:12-08:00August 7th, 2025|Other|0 Comments

S3, E4: Energy System Training – Steve Smith

In this conversation, Jared Vagy and Steve Smith discuss the complexities of energy system training for climbers, particularly focusing on how to effectively train with limited resources. They discuss the importance of understanding muscle contractions, the various energy systems involved in climbing, and practical training protocols that can be implemented off the wall. [...]

By |2024-12-14T21:07:53-08:00July 1st, 2025|Interview|0 Comments

Scapholunate Ligament Injury – Case Study and Return to Climbing Protocol

This presentation presents a detailed case study on a scapholunate ligament injury, providing a comprehensive look at the anatomy, biomechanics, injury history, rehabilitation protocol, and the climber’s return to sport. Led by Rachel Rubin-Sarganis and Waldo Cheung, both highly qualified physical therapists with advanced degrees, this session explores the unique challenges of treating [...]

By |2024-11-11T20:27:59-08:00June 7th, 2025|Wrist and Hand|0 Comments

S3, E2: Ankle Sprain Rehab for Rock Climbers – Nicholas Hedges

In this conversation, Dr. Nick Hedges discusses the importance of the lower body, specifically the ankle, in climbing. He highlights the prevalence of ankle injuries in climbing and the potential consequences of ankle sprains. Dr. Hedges provides self-assessment techniques to determine ankle susceptibility and reduce the risk of injury. He also explains how [...]

By |2024-12-10T02:03:36-08:00March 1st, 2025|Interview|0 Comments

S3, E1: TFCC injury – A Common Wrist Pain in Climbers -Kimmy Wiley

In this conversation, physical therapist Kimmy Wiley and Jared Vagy discuss TFCC wrist injuries in rock climbers. They cover the definition and location of the TFCC, common symptoms, and tests to diagnose the injury. They also discuss the importance of deloading and modifying climbing movements to avoid aggravating the injury. Kimmy shares her [...]

By |2024-12-10T02:03:58-08:00January 1st, 2025|Interview|0 Comments

S2, E6: Training With Your Cycle – Katrina Wong

This conversation explores the impact of the menstrual cycle on training and climbing performance. The menstrual cycle consists of different phases, including the follicular and luteal phases, each characterized by hormonal changes. During the follicular phase, when estrogen levels are higher, climbers may benefit from intense strength training and challenging climbs. In contrast, [...]

By |2024-12-10T02:00:23-08:00November 1st, 2024|Interview|0 Comments

S2, E5: Climb On after a Concussion – Stacey Castaldo

In this conversation, Stacey Castaldo, a doctor of physical therapy, shares her personal experience with concussion and discusses the signs, symptoms, and rehabilitation of concussions in rock climbing. She emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention and getting screened after a head injury. Stacey also highlights the structured return to climbing protocol and [...]

By |2024-12-10T02:00:09-08:00September 1st, 2024|Interview|0 Comments

S2, E4: Tendons: Do I Load it or Rest it? – Evan Ingerson

In this episode, physical therapist Evan Ingerson discusses the topic of tendons and tendon injuries, with a focus on climbers. He explains the structure and function of tendons, the different types of tendon injuries, and the causes and symptoms of these injuries. He also discusses the differences between tendonitis, tendinosis, and tendinopathy, and [...]

By |2025-06-14T15:41:46-07:00July 1st, 2024|Interview|0 Comments

S2, E3: Climbing as Therapy for Mental Health – Beth Scott

In this conversation, Beth Scott, an occupational therapist and passionate climber, discusses mental health in climbing and provides practical techniques for improving mental well-being. The conversation covers topics such as understanding mental health for climbers, the importance of grounding exercises, breathing techniques, and building community for mental health support. Beth emphasizes the need [...]

By |2024-12-10T01:59:31-08:00March 10th, 2024|Interview|0 Comments
Go to Top