The Optimal Body

Dr. Jen Fraboni & Dr. Dom Fraboni
The Optimal Body

Join top-40 Physical Therapy Influencer, Doc Jen, and her Physical Therapy husband Dr. Dom, as they bring you the body tips and PT Pearls you need to help you understand your body, relieve your pains and restrictions, and answer your questions. Along with expert guests, the goal of The Optimal Body is to help you discover what optimal means in your own body.

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    391 | Our Service Trip to Peru and the Pelvic & Sexual Health Disparities Across the Globe with Heather Florio

    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, are joined by Heather Florio, the second-generation owner of Desert Harvest and a women's health advocate. They discuss their trip to Peru in August 2024, intended to educate women about pelvic and sexual health. Despite facing challenges like lost luggage and cultural barriers, they pivoted to educate local clinicians and had a very successful trip. The conversation highlights global disparities in women's health education and the importance of cultural sensitivity. The episode underscores the need for ongoing advocacy and education to empower women worldwide.  LMNT Discount Code: Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Your Free Gift! Release and Recovery Program Discount: Looking for a way to start addressing your nervous system and feel something different in the body. Our Release and Recovery Course is a perfect place to start! This course also has a day every week that is dedicated to pelvic floor exercise and optimization. It is a great way to get into movement, connect with your body, and down regulate to start into the new year. You can even grab a special discount using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout! Heather's Resources and Links: Desert Harvest Tools Youth Sexpert Program Desert Harvest Instagram We think you’ll love: Release and Recovery Course Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel Find the full Show Notes and resources here: https://jen.health/podcast/391 What you will learn in this Episode: 1:12 Trip to Peru Overview  3:21 Mission and Goals for Peru  6:00 Heather recounts educating clinicians in Turkey on pelvic and sexual health, highlighting its impact. 8:16 The original aim was to teach indigenous women in Peru about sexual health, which did not materialize. 10:32 Reflections on the stark contrast between luxury travel and surrounding poverty during their visit to Machu Picchu. 13:14 Heather shares the difficulties faced at the hotel, including a near-arrest situation related to their teaching plans. 14:29 Discussion on the safety concerns arising from the cultural sensitivity surrounding their educational intentions. 17:29 The conversation highlights the cultural barriers and fears surrounding discussions of sexual health in Peru. 18:35 Jen questions why their essential medical supplies were not allowed into Peru. 22:51 Cultural Barriers in Peru  27:26 Discussion on the importance of respecting local culture while educating about women's health. 30:38 Importance of educating women about their bodies to combat high rates of sexual violence in Peru. 36:56 Discussion on the need for gradual improvements in women's health education in the U.S. and Peru. 37:36 The importance of educating individuals to empower them to teach others about pelvic health. 40:27 Initiatives aimed at educating youth about body exploration and reducing shame surrounding sexual health. 44:09 Concerns about the lack of early sexual education and its impact on children's safety and health. 47:09 Strategies for sharing educational resources with communities lacking access to sexual health information. 48:47 Acknowledgment of the varying levels of women's health advancement across different cultures and countries.

    51 min
  2. JAN 6

    390 | Our Top 3 Recommendations to Prevent Pain & Injury in the New Year

    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, share practical tips for enhancing physical health and wellness as we enter the new year. They emphasize the importance of downregulation for the nervous system, mobility training, and the benefits of barefoot living. Doc Jen highlights the role of prenatal vitamins in postpartum recovery, while Doctor Dom discusses the advantages of barefoot shoes and mobility exercises to prevent injuries. Their goal is to help listeners incorporate these practices into their routines seamlessly, promoting overall well-being without feeling overwhelmed. VivoBarefoot Discount: We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing ⁠VivoBareoot shoes⁠ to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your ⁠VivoBarefoot Shoes⁠! **Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund. Needed Discount: Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off. Release and Recovery Program Discount: Looking for a way to start addressing your nervous system and feel something different in the body. Our Release and Recovery Course is a perfect place to start! It is a great way to get into movement, connect with your body, and down regulate to start into the new year. You can even grab a special discount using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout! We think you’ll love: Release and Recovery Course Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel For Full Show Notes and Resources visit: https://jen.health/podcast/390 What you will learn in this Episode:  2:02 Tips for the New Year  5:41 Realistic Morning Routines 7:06 Breathing Techniques for Stress Relief  10:14 The Importance of Breath Awareness  12:10 Importance of Mobility Training  14:28 Assessing Mobility Restrictions 17:35 Enjoying Your Workouts  19:24 Preventing Injuries  20:18 Weekly Activity Variation

    22 min
  3. 12/30/2024

    389 | Fixing Your Metabolism to Fix Your Health with Vince Pitstick

    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom welcome Vince Pitstick, a pioneer in functional and holistic nutrition coaching. Vince shares his personal journey of overcoming early health challenges and how it shaped his holistic approach to health. He emphasizes the importance of addressing root causes and the interconnectedness of bodily systems, critiquing the fragmented nature of Western medicine. Vince advocates for a more integrated healthcare approach, offering insights into metabolic health, weight loss, and the significance of personalized, comprehensive care. This episode is a must-listen for women seeking to understand and improve their overall well-being. LMNT Discount Code: Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Your Free Gift! Free Week + Holiday Discount on the Jen Health Membership: Time to start the New Year out right! We are giving our listeners their first month for only $15!! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout! Vince's Resources and Links: Vince's Instagram Free Consultation with Vince's Team Vince's "The Flush" Protocol Metabolic Mentor Youtube We think you’ll love: Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel For full Show Notes and resources, go to: https://jen.health/podcast/389 What you will learn from Vince Pitstick: 1:17 Vince's Journey Begins  4:17 Early Health Struggles  7:09 Vince discusses the importance of addressing multiple bodily systems for effective health solutions. 10:12 Vince emphasizes a holistic approach to health, integrating various modalities for better outcomes. 13:27 Challenges in the Medical System  15:37 Discusses the need for understanding behavior change to improve patient outcomes beyond just specialization in medicine. 19:44 Understanding Metabolism 26:21 Metabolic Adaptation Explained  30:37 Hormonal Imbalance in Chronic Dieters  32:44 Understanding Caloric Deficits  35:39 Severe Cellular Inflammation  39:45 Metabolic Rate and Disease  44:22 Building Psychological Wins  45:16 Dietary Changes for Metabolism

    54 min
  4. 12/23/2024

    388 | Best Exercises to Prevent Running Injuries

    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy , explore running injuries and prevention strategies. They highlight the importance of foot strength, especially the use of Vivo Barefoot shoes, and discuss the benefits of structured exercise programs. A key study is reviewed, showing that hip and core strength training significantly reduces running injuries compared to foot and ankle training. The episode underscores the complexity of injury prevention, advocating for a holistic approach that includes cross-training, core awareness, and professional guidance. Ideal for women runners, this episode offers practical tips for a safer, more effective running routine. VivoBarefoot Discount: We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing ⁠VivoBareoot shoes⁠ to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "TOB20" to get 20% off your ⁠VivoBarefoot Shoes⁠! **Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund. Free Week + Hoiday Discount on the Jen Health Membership: Time to start the New Year out right! We are giving our listeners their first month for only $15!! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout! We think you’ll love: Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel See the full Show Notes and Resources here: https://jen.health/podcast/388 What You'll Learn in This Episode:  2:00 Importance of Injury Prevention  3:00 Running Injury Statistics  4:10 Explanation of the top down (hip and core) versus bottom up (foot and ankle) approaches in injury prevention. 5:40 Study Overview: Hip and Core vs. Foot and Ankle  7:30 Complexity of Injury Prevention  9:20 Results showing the hip and core program significantly reduced injury rates compared to foot/ankle and control groups. 11:40 Need for a Comprehensive Plan  14:00 Cross-Training Benefits  15:30 Plyometrics and Running  16:17 Postpartum Running Considerations 17:34 Supervised Sessions in Injury Prevention Study

    20 min
  5. 12/16/2024

    387 | Pelvic Floor Therapy Post Abdominal Surgeries with Dr. Joselyn Wallace

    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both physical therapists, welcome Dr. Jocelyn Wallace, a pelvic health specialist. The discussion centers on pelvic health, particularly following abdominal surgeries like myomectomy and hysterectomy, and issues related to fibroids. Dr. Wallace shares her personal journey of undergoing multiple surgeries due to fibroids, highlighting the lack of support and education in pelvic health. The episode emphasizes the importance of tailored rehabilitation, breathing techniques, gentle movement, and long-term care for scar tissue. It aims to empower women with knowledge and resources for better pelvic health and recovery. Needed Discount: Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off. Pelvic Floor Foundations: If you are someone looking for some more connection with your pelvic floor, but don’t know where to start, we have the perfect course for you! Our Pelvic Floor Foundations Course on Jen Health offers a deep dive exploration into your pelvic floor connection. It will help you build and develop dynamic and integrated function when it comes to how your pelvic floor works within your movement patterns. As a podcast listener, you can get a special discount using code OPTIMAL10 at checkout. Learn more and sign up here! Dr Wallace's Resources and Links: Dr Wallace's Website for Virtual Support Dr Jocelyn Wallace on Instagram Dr Jocelyn Wallace on Youtube We think you’ll love: Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Grab our Free Postpartum Guide Tune Up Fitness Balls & Coregeous Ball Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel Get the Full Show Notes and Resources at: https://jen.health/podcast/387 What you will learn from Dr Wallace:  1:12 Dr. Wallace discusses her experiences with fibroids and the lack of support she encountered. 2:33 Dr Wallace recounts her multiple surgeries for fibroids and how they influenced her career path. 3:06 Dr. Wallace describes her first surgery during physical therapy school and its impact on her education. 4:06 She contrasts her recovery after the second surgery, applying her pelvic health knowledge. 7:27 Discussion on the significance of core strength and pelvic floor awareness post-surgery. 8:46 Exploration of the typical advice given after abdominal surgeries and its shortcomings. 10:26 Discussion on the lack of post-surgery physical therapy prescriptions for abdominal surgeries. 12:51 Discussion on chronic pelvic floor tension and its symptoms, including urinary issues. 15:27 Exploration of techniques to recognize and release pelvic floor tension. 17:58 Discussion on the misconception of Kegels as the sole solution for pelvic health. 19:27 Considerations for intimacy and sexual performance after pelvic surgeries. 20:30 Discussion on hormonal impacts on sexual experiences post-hysterectomy. 25:56 Recommendations for early movement to aid scar tissue healing after surgery. 31:41 Discussion on the importance of long-term recovery rather than rushing back to activities post-surgery.

    39 min
  6. 12/09/2024

    386 | Should I Use A Psoas Release Tool for my Tight Hip Flexors

    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, explore the topic of psoas release tools and hip flexor health. They express concerns about the safety and effectiveness of hard psoas release tools, highlighting potential risks to vital organs and nerves. Instead, they advocate for a holistic approach to addressing hip flexor tightness, emphasizing proper movement patterns, breathwork, and the use of gentler tools like the Coregeous Ball. The episode underscores the importance of understanding the root causes of tightness for long-term relief and improved body health. VivoBarefoot Discount: We cannot talk about back issues without talking about restrictions in feet and ankles. Improve your foot and ankle health and therefore everything up the chain by wearing ⁠VivoBareoot shoes⁠ to improve the mobility and strength in your toes, feet, and ankles. There’s one for every occasion, including weddings, hiking, a grocery walk and casual wear, or shoes for your active lifestyle. Use code "OPTIMAL20" to get 20% off your ⁠VivoBarefoot Shoes⁠! **Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund.  LMNT Discount Code: Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Your Free Gift! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! We think you’ll love: Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Free Tight Hip Flexor Guide Get a Coregeous Ball Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel Get full show notes and resources here: https://jen.health/podcast/386 What you'll learn in this episode: 2:00 What are Psoas Releas Tools 5:07 Discussion on how pressure from tools affects muscle spindles and perceived muscle length. 7:28 Dom highlights potential harm from sustained pressure on vital organs and nerves. 10:04 Dom suggests safer methods like diaphragmatic breathing for psoas muscle relaxation. 13:22 Addressing Root Causes of Tightness  14:45 Jen introduces the Coregeous ball as a preferred tool for psoas release. 16:24 Discusses how addressing the front of the body can relieve low back tension. 17:21 Emphasizes the need to address the entire abdominal area, not just the psoas muscle.

    20 min
  7. 12/02/2024

    385 | How to Maintain a Healthy Gut, Prevent Colon Cancer and Reverse Aging with Dr. Roshini Raj

    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, hosts Doc Jen and Doctor Dom, both doctors of physical therapy, engage in an enlightening discussion on gut health with guest Doctor Roshini Raj, a board-certified gastroenterologist. Doctor Raj shares her journey into gastroenterology and her expertise on the gut microbiome. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced gut for overall health, offering practical advice on diet, hydration, and stress management. The episode also touches on the gut-brain connection, the significance of regular bowel movements, and the rising incidence of colon cancer among younger individuals. Black Friday/Cyber Monday Discount! Now is the time! We are having a massive 50% discount on our Annual Membership for the Jen Health Platform. This is the lowest price we EVER offer throughout the year. This membership gets you access to 12 different therapy plans that have been specially currated by Doc Jen with YOU in mind. There are plans for specific body parts: Low Back, Hip, Knee, Neck... Or plans that work on Full Body Strength, HIIT Workouts, Full Body Mobility, and Core Stability. Our community is going to be heading into the Full Body Strength Plan in December! This 50% discount only lasts a limited time! No code needed. Come and join HERE! Needed Discount: Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off. Dr Raj's Resources and Links: My Yay Day Instagram My Yay Day Facebook My Yay Day Website Work with Dr Raj Gut Renovation Website We think you’ll love: Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel See the full Shownotes and Resources at: https://jen.health/podcast/385 What you'll learn in this episode: 5:03 Doctor Raj's Journey into Gastroenterology  12:37 Doctor Raj explains what gut health and microbiome mean, emphasizing their significance for overall health. 15:34 Discussion on how the gut affects mental health through neurotransmitters and the brain-gut communication. 17:36 Strategies for keeping the gut lining intact and balancing good and bad bacteria. 19:11 Advice on incorporating fiber-rich foods and fermented items to support a healthy microbiome. 22:12 Insight into how sleep deprivation affects the microbiome and vice versa. 25:05 Importance of considering exercise, sleep, and stress management alongside diet for gut health. 27:00 Discussion on balancing indulgence in processed foods with maintaining a healthy routine. 30:35 Introduction of the 80/20 rule in travel planning related to maintaining gut health. 36:06 Preventative Measures Against Colon Cancer 41:01 Insights into the importance of monitoring bowel movements for health indicators. 46:00 Weight Loss Drugs and Colon Cancer

    53 min
  8. 11/25/2024

    384 | QL Causing Low Back Pain or Tightness?

    In this episode of the Optimal Body Podcast, Doc Jen and Doctor Dom explore the often-misunderstood quadratus lumborum (QL) muscle, frequently blamed for low back pain. They explain the QL's role in the body, emphasizing its interactions with other muscles and fascia. The hosts discuss the importance of proper breathing techniques, particularly diaphragmatic breathing, to alleviate QL tension. They also share self-care strategies, including using tools like a Coregeous ball and foam roller, and highlight the significance of core stability and hip control. Their holistic approach aims to empower women to manage and prevent low back pain effectively. Needed Discount: Although the journey of pregnancy is so personal and individual, Jen's number one question goes back to what she did to help her conceive and maintain the pregnancy. While there were a myriad of factors that contributed, she reliably counted on Needed supplements that supported her journey! Men need support as well via sperm support and men's multivitamins. While women are supported by egg quality supplementation, CoQ10, prenatal Omega 3, iron, and choline in tablet or powder form. Used by over 4000 health professionals, Needed is available to support pregnancy, fertility, and postpartum, as well as women's and men's health in general. Check out needed if you know there's a gap in your nutrition via code ⁠⁠OPTIMAL⁠⁠ for 20% off.  LMNT Discount Code: Fuel every system within the body and the brain with LMNT! Keep yourself hydrated on a cellular level by replenishing the sodium, potassium, and magnesium that our body needs for basic cellular processes like nerve signaling, smooth muscle contractions, unnecessary fatigue, aches and pain, brain fog, and recovery! Get a free gift with every purchase and try some new flavors as you stay hydrated! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Your Free Gift! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all curated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! We think you’ll love: Get A Free Week on Jen Health! Free Low Back Pain Guide Jen’s Instagram Dom’s Instagram YouTube Channel Check out the full show notes and resources here: https://jen.health/podcast/384 What you'll learn in this episode: 1:52 Understanding the Quadratus Lumborum  5:04 Importance of Breathing Techniques  9:16 Fascial Connections of the QL  12:12 Approaches to QL Pain Management  16:43 Breath and Movement Integration  17:41 Core Muscle Coordination  18:45 Hip Control and Glute Activation  19:40 Single Leg Variations for Stability  20:23 Comprehensive Stretching Benefits

    22 min
4.9
out of 5
480 Ratings

About

Join top-40 Physical Therapy Influencer, Doc Jen, and her Physical Therapy husband Dr. Dom, as they bring you the body tips and PT Pearls you need to help you understand your body, relieve your pains and restrictions, and answer your questions. Along with expert guests, the goal of The Optimal Body is to help you discover what optimal means in your own body.

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