Tom Broback, DPT, CSCS

My name is Tom Broback. I'm a doctor of physical therapy and a certified strength and conditioning coach. My role is to keep John healthy throughout the entire training cycle for his marathon. Joint discomfort, tendon pain and overuse issues happen even with the best of training plans. Being able to attack these with a systematic, science based rehab is the difference between crossing the finish line with a smile on your face and being unable to even get to the start line. In addition, I collaborate with the entire team, especially with Drew on the strength workouts, to ensure John is getting a full circle approach to his health and fitness.

What I'm working on right now

In the initial training block we have had a few tendon related issues creep up, the first one being patellar tendon pain. Isometrics and quadriceps loading have been quite helpful in this situation. The concern, as is with all runners, is as the mileage picks up in the second half of training, how will the knee respond? Staying proactive with this routine will be key in John's success.

Lately we have had some lateral hip tightness pop into the picture, right after a half marathon. The good news is that it responded well to a dose of isometrics and a slight change in lower body strengthening routine. The less good news is we still have 6 months of training and a wonky hip can throw off the best of training plans. We will stay vigilant on this issues and other ones (ideally, few) that pop up down the home stretch.

Looking ahead

The biggest challenge for rehab is to keep John's increasing mileage going up while keeping these tendon issues at bay. Although he does respond well to exercise based rehab, it's a lot easier physically and emotionally to run when you are pain free. In Project Unreasonable, my role is like a fire extinguisher — you hope to never need me, but if circumstances call for it, I can save the house from burning down.