#52 - Functional Anatomy of the Foot & Ankle in Barbell Training with Dr. John Petrizzo, PT, PRSCC, CSCS, SSC

#52 - Functional Anatomy of the Foot & Ankle in Barbell Training with Dr. John Petrizzo, PT, PRSCC, CSCS, SSC

Author: Dr. Rori Alter, PT, SSC, PRSCC July 1, 2023 Duration: 1:06:04

Are you wondering if you need to fix your ankle mobility to squat better, if you should wear orthotics when lifting weights, or why specific shoes help you lift weights? Understanding how the foot and ankle function is important for making specific decisions about your feet and ankles in barbell training. 

 

The feet are our connection to the ground and our base of support and force transfer in all movements involving our feet and the ground. Because of this, the foot and ankle are quite complex, have a lot of movement, and have many bones, muscles, and joints to produce a stable and flexible base for human movement. As such, the foot and ankle are susceptible to injury outside of barbell training and powerlifting rather than because of it.

 

Most foot and ankle issues that impede someone's ability to barbell train generally come from issues or injuries that occur outside of training. In most cases, it's possible to continue to train even with injuries or limitations to the foot or ankle.

 

In this episode of the PRS Podcast, we discuss:

  1. The general functional anatomy of the ankle and foot

  2. How much ankle mobility do you need to barbell squat, and what to do about it

  3. How your ability to walk relates to barbell training and squat

  4. Flexible versus stiff feet

  5. The pros and cons of arch support

  6. And much more

 

If you're a chiropractor, physical therapist, medical doctor, strength coach, or student clinician, this episode is a great review and application tutorial regarding the foot and ankle in barbell training.

 

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

  1. Overcoming a Hip Fracture and Squat Fails (Article)

  2. #41 - Femoroacetabular Impingement, A Labral Tear, & A Hip Fracture: Coach Rori's Story of 5 Nationals, 4 Arnolds, & 2 World Championships Without Surgery (Podcast)

 

 

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Join our Facebook Community for free form checks, live Q&As & more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PRS.Barbell.Mastery 

 

Got questions or guests you'd like to hear on the show? Submit them here: https://forms.gle/7Vu2HmgHoeQY9xM59 

 

Get in touch with the show!

Web: https://www.progressiverehabandstrength.com

Email: podcast@progressiverehabandstrength.com

Rori IG: @rorimegan_prs

Alyssa IG: @alyssahope_prs

 


Hosted by Dr. Rori Alter and Dr. Alyssa Haveson, Progressive Rehab & Strength is a conversation for those who take lifting seriously, whether for sport or for life. Both hosts are practicing physical therapists and certified strength coaches with deep roots in powerlifting, giving them a unique, dual-perspective on the body under load. This podcast digs into the nuanced intersection of rehabilitation and performance, moving beyond generic advice. You’ll hear practical discussions on programming for longevity, managing training around injuries, and navigating the technical demands of the barbell lifts. The aim is to strip away confusion and provide actionable insights that help athletes and coaches build resilient, sustainable careers-both in the gym and in their professional practices. It’s a resource for critical thinkers who want their approach to strength to be informed by both clinical expertise and hard-earned experience on the platform. Tune in for a blend of science, real-world application, and straight talk from two professionals who live in this space every day.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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