Life Shouldn't Hurt

Grant Fedoruk
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Pain & injury are part of our life experience.  A Canadian sports injury and chronic pain physiotherapist since 1999, Grant Fedoruk shares his unique observations on pain, injury, business and life. He combines humour and laughs with interviews of his colleagues, patients and other experts in the field to learn how and why: Life Shouldn't Hurt.

  1. 4D AGO

    Necks Level Solutions for Chronic Neck Pain

    Life Shouldn’t Hurt: Why Your Pain Isn’t “Normal” — From Feet to Neck Pain Solutions Introduction If you’ve ever tuned in to Life Shouldn’t Hurt, you know that I believe pain shouldn't be your normal state of being—even if my singing voice at the top of the show might cause a little phantom pain for my co-host, Anita Cassidy! Understanding the Kinetic Chain: How Foot Mechanics Influence Knee Pain In this episode, we tackle the aches and pains that literally weigh us down, from our feet all the way up to our heads. We kick things off by looking at the kinetic chain—how your feet might actually be the culprits behind your knee pain. Anita and I break down Patellofemoral Syndrome, a condition where the kneecap tracks incorrectly. If you or your teenagers get sore knees just from sitting through a movie (what we call the moviegoer’s sign), you need to hear this. I even share my own painful history of mowing lawns for the county and how—believe it or not—wearing cowboy boots during the Calgary Stampede taught me a valuable lesson about foot biomechanics. The Epidemic of Neck Pain: From Whiplash to Tech Neck Then, we shift our focus to an epidemic we’re all facing: neck pain. Whether it’s from an old whiplash injury or just “tech neck” from doom-scrolling in bed, our necks are taking a beating. I sit down with physical therapist Dr. Scott Dickinson, the inventor of a game-changing device called NecksLevel. Why Traditional Neck Exercises Fail Scott explains why traditional neck exercises—like awkwardly strapping bands to your head—often fail because of discomfort and compliance issues. We explore his invention, which is essentially a “Pilates reformer for your neck,” allowing you to strengthen those critical stabilizing muscles while lying down, completely eliminating the stress of gravity. We discuss why rotation is the secret weapon for neck health and how to finally get lasting relief from that stiffness that makes shoulder-checking in your car a nightmare. Your Environment Matters: Small Tweaks, Big Impact My biggest takeaway for you? Your environment matters. Whether it's the shoes on your feet or the pillow under your head, small tweaks make a massive difference. And please, for the sake of your neck and your wallet, leave that smartphone in the closet at night! Final Thoughts I hope this episode empowers you to take control of your recovery. If you find value in our conversations, please follow and subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode. Remember, life shouldn't hurt! Support the show Follow on Spotify/Apple Podcasts for regular inspirational stories and pain-free living tips. We appreciate you! This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.

    39 min

  2. JAN 7

    From Ice to Insight: Marc Kennedy on Pain-Free Performance

    In this episode of Life Shouldn't Hurt, I am thrilled to bring you a blend of medical expertise and Olympic-level wisdom that will completely change how you view your physical longevity. Whether you are an elite athlete or just trying to get through the day pain-free, this episode is packed with tools you can use immediately. Understanding Achilles Pain We start by tackling a problem that brings so many of you limping through my clinic doors: Achilles pain. You might know it as the strongest tendon in the body, but as I explain to Anita, it is also a classic weak spot. We break down the crucial difference between tendonitis (inflammation) and tendinosis (degeneration), because knowing which one you have changes how you treat it. If you have ever felt that stiffness in the morning or pain on the back of your heel, you need to hear why “no pain, no gain” is the wrong approach here. I also share specific, actionable advice on how to stretch properly—specifically why you need to stretch with both a straight leg and a bent knee to target the different muscles that pull on that tendon. Marc Kennedy on the Physical Demands of Curling But the real highlight of this show is my conversation with Canadian curling legend, Marc Kennedy. You might think of curling as a gentle game, but Marc reveals the intense physical toll it takes on the hips and shoulders over a twenty-year career. Marc opens up about the secrets behind his incredible longevity, including his transition to a “glute-focused” training regimen after a chiropractor identified that his hip pain stemmed from weakness there. A Practical Warm-Up Routine for Everyday Athletes We get very practical for the recreational athletes listening: Marc walks us through his 5-minute warm-up routine using foam rollers and resistance bands. I explain the science behind why his method works—how rolling specific spots stimulates a reflex that relaxes the tissue, and how exercises like “monster walks” wake up the muscles you actually need before you play. A Personal Journey Toward Health and Family Legacy Beyond the physical, this episode touches on something deeply personal. Marc shares his powerful decision to eliminate alcohol from his life. He speaks candidly about his father’s battle with alcoholism and how he and his wife chose a healthier path to set an example for their daughters. It is a touching testament to how our lifestyle choices impact not just our performance, but the people we love. In fact, Marc reveals that his dedication to physio and chiropractic care has inspired his own daughter to pursue a career in healing, which put a massive smile on my face. Conclusion: Longevity, Transformation, and Taking Care of Yourself From fixing your heels to thinking like a gold medalist, this episode is about longevity, transformation, and the quiet power of taking care of yourself. I hope you tune in and find something that helps you move better, because life really shouldn't hurt Support the show Follow on Spotify/Apple Podcasts for regular inspirational stories and pain-free living tips. We appreciate you! This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.

    40 min

  3. JAN 5

    Pelvic Health and the Emsella Chair Breakthrough

    In this episode, I wanted to surprise you—and my co-host Anita—by tackling two specific areas of the body that often cause silent suffering: the side of the hip and the pelvic floor. If you have ever woken up with a deep ache after sleeping on your side, or if you find yourself planning your day around bathroom breaks, this conversation is essential listening for you. We start by unpacking a condition that is often confused with sciatica or back issues: Trochanteric Bursitis. It’s a pain that radiates down the leg and screams at you when you try to cross your legs or lie down at night. In this episode, we explain exactly what is happening inside that fluid-filled sac on the side of your hip. But more importantly, I explain why just resting or getting a cortisone shot often isn't enough. We discuss the vital difference between simply stopping the pain and actually fixing the weakness or tightness that caused it in the first place so you can get back to moving freely. Then, we shift gears to have an open, honest, and much-needed conversation about pelvic health. I’m joined by Kristen Fitzgerald, a compassionate expert from our team, to break the stigma surrounding incontinence and pelvic dysfunction. Whether you are a man dealing with the after-effects of surgery, a woman navigating perimenopause, or someone experiencing urgency, you need to know that this is not something you just have to live with. Kristen shares some surprising practical advice, including why drinking more water—not less—is actually the key to calming an irritated bladder. We also debunk the myth that pelvic health is only a concern for new moms; it affects athletes, men, and people of all ages. Finally, we introduce a breakthrough technology that is changing lives: the Emsella Chair. Imagine doing nearly 12,000 kegels in just 30 minutes, all while fully clothed and sitting comfortably reading a magazine. We discuss how this electromagnetic treatment helps retrain your brain and strengthen your muscles to treat incontinence and even improve intimate wellness without surgery or invasive exams. My goal with this episode is to help you realize that you don’t have to settle for discomfort or embarrassment. There are solutions, and often, they are easier than you think. If you find value in these conversations and want to keep learning how to live a pain-free life, please take a moment to follow and subscribe to the show. It helps us continue to bring you expert advice and real solutions. Tune in, get informed, and let’s get you feeling better. Support the show Follow on Spotify/Apple Podcasts for regular inspirational stories and pain-free living tips. We appreciate you! This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.

    38 min

  4. 12/26/2025

    Mending the Mind: A Guide to Cognitive Rehabilitation

    Have You Ever Lost Your Train of Thought? Have you ever walked up to your sock drawer, opened it, and stood there completely blank on why you were there? If you’ve ever felt that frustration, or the “baby brain” fog that my co-host Anita Cassidy vividly describes, you aren't alone. My Own “Glitch in the Matrix” Moment I’m Grant Fedoruk, and in this episode of Life Shouldn't Hurt, we explore the fascinating world of Cognitive Rehab. I open up about my own “glitch in the matrix” moments following a rugby concussion—a day where I tried to order a “Big Brute” at Boston Pizza three different times because my brain just couldn't hold onto the thought. It’s a personal look at how trauma, whether from a concussion, a stroke, or even the lingering effects of viral infections and chemotherapy, can disrupt our lives. Featuring Cognitive Rehab Expert Lisa Huskins We are joined by Lisa Huskins, an occupational therapist and cognitive rehabilitation expert from Leading Edge Physiotherapy, who reveals why the old advice of “rest, rest, rest” is outdated. Instead, we explore the concept of neuroplasticity—the brain's incredible ability to build new bridges around damaged areas. What You Will Learn in This Episode • The Battery Analogy Lisa explains why “pacing” is critical. When your brain is recovering, it operates on a half-charged battery, meaning you need to take breaks every 45 minutes to recharge rather than pushing through. • Hardware vs. Software We break down how your brain structure (hardware) can be intact while your processing (software) struggles, affecting everything from focus to word-finding. • The Exercise Connection Discover why aerobic exercise is actually vital for recovery, releasing chemicals like brain-derived neurotrophic factor that help you rebuild neurons. • Active Training Why simply doing a crossword puzzle might not be enough, and how structured, graded brain games can improve memory and processing speed. Hope and Practical Strategies for Recovery Whether you are navigating the aftereffects of an injury or just want to keep your mind sharp as you age, this episode offers hope and practical strategies. We believe that thinking shouldn't hurt, and neither should life. Support the Show If you find value in these discussions and want to support our mission to help you navigate life's difficulties, please show your support by following and subscribing to our show on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Support the show Follow on Spotify/Apple Podcasts for regular inspirational stories and pain-free living tips. We appreciate you! This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.

    40 min

  5. 12/22/2025

    Life Shouldn't Hurt Bob Steadward - Disability in Sport

    The Paralympic Movement and Disability in Sport Welcome back to Life Shouldn't Hurt. It is almost 2026, and I am thrilled to kick off the new year with my guest host, Anita Cassidy. While we opened the show discussing our personal resolutions—including Anita’s shocking decision to drink her first cup of coffee after 49 years of abstinence, and our mutual commitment to walking and strength training to protect our joints and bone health—the heart of this episode was a conversation that every Canadian needs to hear. A Legend in the Studio I had the immense privilege of sitting down with Dr. Bob Steadward, a man I consider the “godfather” and one of the founding fathers of the modern Paralympic movement. Dr. Steadward’s journey began in a small farming community in Saskatchewan before he came to the University of Alberta in the mid‑1960s. While he was a high‑level athlete himself in hockey, baseball, and track, his focus shifted when he saw the immense physical and attitudinal barriers facing people with disabilities. Dr. Steadward didn’t just observe these problems; he changed the global landscape of sport. In the 1980s, frustrated by the lack of a world body to govern disability sports, he took a risk to lead change when no one else would. He founded the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and was instrumental in the 1988 Seoul Games, where the Paralympics and Olympics were finally held in the same city under a unified committee, marking the true beginning of the modern games. The Critical State of Disability Sport Our conversation shed light on the urgent importance of accessibility and infrastructure. Dr. Steadward pointed out a concerning trend: while Canada was once ranked top three in the world for Paralympic sport, we have fallen to between 12th and 15th because other nations have learned from us and surpassed us. The barriers to entry are high. Specialized equipment, such as racing chairs or monoskis, requires sophisticated technology and can cost upwards of $30,000 to $40,000. This creates a significant financial divide, not just for developing nations, but for Canadian athletes as well. Furthermore, high‑performance coaches need to better understand the functional aspects of disability, such as the logistical challenges of simply getting a wheelchair‑bound athlete to a facility. The Steadward Centre Model We also discussed the “Steadward Centre for Personal and Physical Achievement” at the University of Alberta, a facility that serves nearly 1,400 people ranging from children to elite athletes. Dr. Steadward shared his philosophy of “segregation before inclusion.” This means providing a safe, specialized environment where individuals can learn independent skills—like transferring from a wheelchair or swimming—among peers before integrating into broader community programs. The impact of this work is profound. Dr. Steadward shared a moving story of a woman who recently told him that the center saved her life.  A Call to Action Our country needs more facilities like this. As Dr. Steadward noted, we need leaders in communities across Canada to “pick up the torch” and build the infrastructure necessary to support these athletes. Until next time, Grant Fedoruk Support the show Follow on Spotify/Apple Podcasts for regular inspirational stories and pain-free living tips. We appreciate you! This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.

    39 min

  6. 12/15/2025

    Pickleball, Patience, and Professional Coaching

    If you’ve noticed tennis courts transforming or heard a distinct "pop-pop" sound at your local park, you aren’t alone. In this energetic episode of Life Shouldn’t Hurt, host Grant Fedoruk dives deep into the phenomenon of Pickleball—the fastest-growing sport in North America. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or someone looking to get off the couch, this episode offers a treasure trove of health tips, strategy, and heartwarming insight into why staying active matters. From Pickles to Performance Grant opens the show with his signature blend of humor and medical expertise, starting with a surprising health hack: pickle juice. Beyond being a tasty snack, Grant reveals that pickle juice can actually stop muscle cramps—not just because of electrolytes, but because the sharp taste acts as a "noxious stimulus" that interrupts the neurological pathway causing the cramp. It’s the perfect, quirky segue into the main event: a masterclass on Pickleball. Expert Insight: The Art of Patience Grant is joined by Gary Fletcher, a former professional tennis coach who has seamlessly transitioned his expertise to Pickleball. Gary brings decades of wisdom, offering a fascinating comparison between the two sports. While tennis relies on power and covering massive ground, Pickleball is described as "giant, life-size ping pong." For listeners eager to improve their game, Gary drops a crucial piece of actionable wisdom: Pickleball is a game of patience, not just power,. Unlike tennis, where you might look for a quick winner, Pickleball is "a little more chess," requiring players to slow down, be strategic, and master the "dink"—a soft shot that lands in the opponent’s non-volley zone, known affectionately as "the kitchen." Practical Advice: Stay Injury-Free As a physiotherapist, Grant ensures listeners leave with tools to protect their bodies. He highlights that while Pickleball is accessible to all ages, it still demands preparation. The episode provides a critical takeaway for your next workout: ditch the static stretching before you play. Instead, Grant advocates for an active warm-up—swinging your legs, rotating your torso, and getting the blood flowing to truly prevent injury and boost performance. Why You Should Tune In Beyond the mechanics of "Ernies" and "ATPs" (Around the Post shots), this episode resonates on a deeper level. It is a celebration of movement as medicine. Grant and Gary discuss the vital importance of not specializing in sports too early, encouraging kids—and adults—to play a variety of games to build creativity and avoid repetitive strain. Ultimately, the episode is a testament to the power of community. As Grant shares a touching moment thanking Gary for the impact he had coaching his children, listeners are reminded that sport is about connection as much as competition. Ready to pick up a paddle? Whether you want to learn the rules of the "kitchen," understand why the returner has the advantage, or just want to hear two old friends chat about the joy of an active life, this episode is a must-listen. As Grant reminds us, the secret to a long life is simple: keep moving. Support the show Follow on Spotify/Apple Podcasts for regular inspirational stories and pain-free living tips. We appreciate you! This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.

    39 min

  7. 12/09/2025

    Living and Thriving with Type 1 Diabetes: 50 Years of Progress From Someone who Knows

    Living with Type 1 diabetes is like having a job where you never get a day off. Constant vigilance, discipline, and resilience are required. In this inspiring episode of the Life Shouldn’t Hurt podcast, host Grant Fedoruk and co‑host Anita Cassidy sit down with Dave Prince, who shares his remarkable 50‑year journey managing diabetes while living a full, thriving life. From the early days of boiling glass syringes and relying on urine tests to today’s smartphone‑connected monitors and synthetic insulin, Dave’s story is a testament to how far diabetes care has come—and how mindset and discipline can make all the difference. Advice for Living Well With Diabetes This episode is packed with actionable diabetes management tips for patients, caregivers, and anyone seeking to live healthier: Transform Discipline Into Habit Dave emphasizes that diabetes care isn’t about occasional willpower—it’s about routine. He explains that while habits may take 21 repetitions to form, diabetes management requires thousands. His advice: stick with your protocols until checking your health becomes second nature.Keep Moving Despite being told activity wasn’t important when first diagnosed, Dave chose to walk daily. Grant reinforces that movement is essential for longevity, especially with diabetes. At age 69, Dave’s cardiologist credits his walking routine for his excellent health.Pay Attention and Take Control Dave recalls his grandmother’s wisdom: “Pay attention to yourself.” He stresses that while modern medicine is powerful, your health is ultimately in your hands. Recognizing early signs of hypoglycemia or other complications can be life‑saving.Don’t Let the Diagnosis Define You Dave refuses to let diabetes become his identity. “I don’t say, ‘Hi, I’m Dave the diabetic,’” he explains. By viewing diabetes as a circumstance rather than a label, he has pursued the life he wants without hesitation.Why You Should Listen This episode goes beyond personal storytelling—it provides vital medical context and practical advice: Understanding the physical impacts of diabetes, including delayed healing, neuropathy, and infection risks.Why it’s critical to inform physical therapists about your condition to avoid complications from treatments like heat or ice.A look into the future of diabetes care, including AI‑powered technology and automated insulin pumps that anticipate the body’s needs before patients even notice.A Powerful Analogy Managing diabetes is like piloting a plane on a long‑haul flight. You can’t simply switch on autopilot and walk away—you must constantly monitor your instruments and make small adjustments. With discipline and vigilance, as Dave Prince demonstrates, you can fly safely for decades and reach any destination you choose Support the show Follow on Spotify/Apple Podcasts for regular inspirational stories and pain-free living tips. We appreciate you! This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.

    39 min

  8. 12/05/2025

    Frozen Shoulder: Freezing, Frozen, and Thawing

    Is Your Shoulder "Frozen" or Just Stubborn? Why Movement is Medicine (Even When It Hurts) By Grant Fedoruk Welcome back to Life Shouldn't Hurt, the show where we believe your heart, body, and spirit deserve a little less struggle and a lot more kindness. If you’ve ever felt like life handed you lemons and forgot the recipe for lemonade, you’re in the right place. In this episode, my co-host Anita Cassidy and I get into a condition that can literally stop you in your tracks: Frozen Shoulder, or as we call it in the medical world, adhesive capsulitis. If you’re in your 50s—what I like to call the “50-year-old shoulder”—and suddenly find yourself unable to reach behind your back or grab a seatbelt, this episode is for you. We aren’t just talking theory. We’re joined by Mel Cordoviz, a medical professional who has survived frozen shoulder not once, but twice. Her story is inspiring not just because we helped guide her recovery, but because she did most of the hard work herself. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What is Frozen Shoulder? It’s not about feeling cold—it’s a stiff shoulder where the capsule around your joint scars and thickens. Anita describes it perfectly: it’s like saran wrap around your shoulder joint that shrink-wraps tighter and tighter until you lose your range of motion.The Three Phases We break down the natural timeline that can last up to three years:Freezing Stage: Pain increases and mobility decreasesFrozen Stage: Stiffness plateaus, but movement is limited.Thawing Stage: Gradual return of mobility. The “No Pain, No Gain” Reality Unlike many injuries where pain means “stop,” frozen shoulder is different. You must move it even though it hurts. Mel shares her experience of pain feeling like an “electrical charge,” yet she pushed through with doorway stretches and broomstick exercises to regain mobility.Speeding Up Recovery While frozen shoulder can naturally drag on for 18 months to 3 years, with the right physiotherapy and dedication, recovery can be much faster. Mel regained her mobility in about six months.The Art of Medicine Medicine isn’t just science—it’s about pattern recognition and understanding the whole person in front of you. Anita will admit, she once missed a frozen shoulder diagnosis, it was a long time ago (and I will never let Anita forget it), but she hasn’t missed one since. Practical Tips If your shoulder just won’t move—or you know someone struggling—this episode is packed with practical advice: Using a hutch or doorway for stretchingIncorporating broomstick mobility exercisesExploring IMS (dry needling) as part of treatmentFinal Thoughts Pain isn’t a prerequisite for growth. Frozen shoulders hurt, but life shouldn’t. Tune in now to hear Mel’s journey from “frozen” to freedom. Support the show Follow on Spotify/Apple Podcasts for regular inspirational stories and pain-free living tips. We appreciate you! This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.

    39 min
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About

Pain & injury are part of our life experience.  A Canadian sports injury and chronic pain physiotherapist since 1999, Grant Fedoruk shares his unique observations on pain, injury, business and life. He combines humour and laughs with interviews of his colleagues, patients and other experts in the field to learn how and why: Life Shouldn't Hurt.

Information

  • Creator
    Grant Fedoruk
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    75
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Life Shouldn't Hurt
  • Show Website
    Life Shouldn't Hurt