283. The surprisingly nuanced link between movement quality and back pain, with Kevin Wernli and Raphael Bender

In this episode of Pilates Elephants, Raphael Bender and Dr. Kevin Wernli dive into the surprisingly nuanced relationship between movement and pain. They explore why changing movement patterns doesn’t always reduce pain, (and when it can!) the limits of the biomechanical model, and how beliefs and context play a crucial role. Discover actionable insights for Pilates instructors on fostering more effective, evidence-based approaches to managing low back pain.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

• Does movement change when back pain changes? Systematic Review here
• Kevin’s case series here
• Qualitative interviews here
• Gracely 1986 dentist study here

Watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/vjpyxHr3lLY

About Kevin Wernlin:

Kevin is a Physiotherapist from Perth, Western Australia. He completed his PhD with esteemed supervisors Peter Kent, Peter O’Sullivan, Anne Smith, and Amity Campbell. His research investigated how movement, posture, and psychological factors relate to persistent low back pain, particularly as people recover. He has appeared on numerous podcasts and radio segments, published research in high-quality international research journals, and presented at national and international conferences. He has a passion for using technology to help make healthcare more equitable and effective, and translating research into the real-world, evidenced by his work as the former producer and co-host of the popular empowered beyond pain podcast, and now as co-founder of a digital health startup called Matilda Health which helps people undergoing endometriosis surgery optimise the pre and post-surgery journey.

Connect with Kevin Wernlin:

• A bunch of resources I’ve put together: https://www.backtoliving.health/givingbackresources
• Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ogpeLlDGLRLiHofEWvCje
• RESTORE clinical trial: https://www.restorebackpain.com/
• Social media links: Twitter|FB|IG|LinkedIn - @KWernliPhysio
• ORCID - 0000-0001-6035-9873

Connect with Raph on Instagram: @the_raphaelbender

Download a free course guide:

• Pilates Certification
• Visualized Anatomy

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