Module 1.1: The Pain Science - Biomechanics Continuum

In this first lesson, I want to challenge the biggest mental trap that keeps good clinicians stuck, picking sides between pain science and biomechanics.

Back when I was in my PNF residency, I made that mistake. I got so attached to one model of motor control that it actually got in the way of my patient’s progress. Thankfully, my mentor stepped in and showed me how both models had value — I just couldn’t see it yet.

That moment changed everything for me.

In this video, I’ll walk you through that story and help you recognize where your own clinical biases might be sneaking in. You’ll start seeing the continuum between pain science and biomechanics, or any “conflicting” approach, for what it really is — a perspective to use to help make better decisions, not a side to pick.

By the end, you’ll:

  • See how overcommitting to one model limits growth and patient results

  • Learn how to catch your own clinical bias in real time

  • Start thinking more like a problem solver than a “method follower”

  • Get a short reflection exercise to help you bridge both sides

Watch until the end — the “Clinical Success” prompts I share will help you clarify where you currently stand before we dive into the next concept: Divergent vs. Convergent Thinking.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS ⏱️

0:00 – 0:20 | Welcome to Module 1: Pattern Recognition & Divergent Thinking
0:21 – 1:00 | The pain science ↔ biomechanics continuum explained
1:01 – 1:55 | A story from my PNF residency that changed how I think
1:56 – 3:00 | How bias toward one model blocked a patient’s progress
3:01 – 3:55 | My mentor’s intervention and what it taught me
3:56 – 4:35 | The rookie mistake that every PT makes early on
4:36 – 5:40 | Reflection: which side of the continuum do you lean toward?
5:41 – 6:25 | Why it’s not about choosing sides — it’s about being adaptable
6:26 – 7:00 | How to think like “Terry,” not rookie Mez
7:01 – 8:55 | Clinical Success reflection: unpacking your own biases
8:56 – 9:40 | My “salt and pepper” analogy for blending pain science & biomechanics
9:41 – 10:22 | What’s next: Divergent vs. Convergent Thinking

Depending on where we are on our continuing education journey, I believe our own aversions or biases towards either end of any rehab approach can and will interfere with our patients' success.

P.S. Stay tuned into you inbox for tomorrow’s video…
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