Building Momentum in Rehab

“If I stop pedaling, I’ll crash.” A simple truth from a 7-year-old learning to ride a bike sparked this conversation about one of the biggest mistakes people make in recovery: stopping when the pain stops.In this episode of The Talking Rehab Podcast, Dr. Fred Bagares reframes what true recovery looks like. He shares a patient story, a powerful mindset shift, and a case for why momentum—not pain relief—is the real goal. Whether you're dealing with injury, trying to prevent one, or stuck in a cycle of setbacks, this episode gives you the clarity and tools to move forward—consistently.

[00:00] The Bike Metaphor: Wisdom from a 7-Year-Old
Why pedaling through the wobbles is a perfect analogy for rehab—and what most adults forget about momentum.

[01:20] The Common Mistake: Stop When It Feels Better
Dr. Bagares shares a scenario he sees daily: back pain, ibuprofen, rest… and relapse.

[02:15] The “Stop-and-Go” Epidemic
Why short-term fixes and pain-based decisions lead to long-term frustration.

[02:55] Michelle’s Story: From Chronic Heel Pain to Half Marathon
How one patient broke the loop by committing to rehab after the pain was gone.

[04:00] Pain Is a Lousy GPS
Learn why pain lingers after healing—or disappears too soon—and what metrics are actually useful.

[05:00] The Tennis Example: Two Paths, One Outcome?
Dr. Bagares walks through two ways to return after injury—one quick, one comprehensive—and the hidden risks of the “fast track.”

[06:00] Momentum > Perfection
Why waiting for 100% readiness stalls progress—and what to do instead.

[07:00] Redefining “Better”
It's not about stronger or faster—it's about trust, awareness, and response. Momentum builds that.

[08:00] From Rehab to Resilience: What to Do Now
Dr. Bagares gives a personal challenge: What's one small move you can make this week, even if it’s not perfect?

[09:30] Final Takeaway: Momentum Compounds Like Interest
The earlier you start, the more it builds. The goal isn’t to recover—it’s to come back better.

🎧 Core Message:
Pain relief is not the finish line. Real progress begins after the pain fades. Keep pedaling.

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