In the latest episode of The Gnar Stool Podcast, hosts Shannon O'Grady and John Perry welcome Dr. Carrie Cooper—physical therapist, former pro climber, and author—for a conversation packed with inspiration and actionable insights on movement, injury prevention, and healing.
A Journey Rooted in Movement
Dr. Cooper’s love for movement started early, growing up as a dancer. After a severe back injury, she discovered the healing power of Pilates, a turning point that led her to pursue physical therapy. Later, her experience as a professional climber added a unique depth to her expertise, especially in understanding climbing-specific injuries and the body’s incredible capabilities.
Climbing + Physical Therapy: A Unique Intersection
Dr. Cooper has carved out a niche as one of the few physical therapists specializing in climbing injuries. She highlights how climbing demands specific attention to movement and stress points, especially in the fingers and shoulders.
A major focus of her work is finger injuries, particularly pulley tears. She shared an eye-opening perspective on how the body’s natural adaptation—through scar tissue—can often replicate the function of the original ligament. This knowledge is a game-changer for climbers fearing long-term impacts from these common injuries.
The Gender Gap in Climbing Research
Dr. Cooper also addressed an important gap in climbing-related research: the lack of gender representation. Although progress has been made, there’s still work to do to understand the unique experiences and injuries faced by female climbers.
One particularly intriguing area is the potential impact of hormonal changes, like those during perimenopause and menopause, on ligament laxity and injury risk. While this research is still developing, it opens the door to deeper understanding of how physiological shifts affect female athletes.
A Holistic Approach to Healing
Dr. Cooper’s approach to physical therapy goes beyond treating the injury. She emphasizes understanding overall movement patterns, lifestyle, and the root causes of chronic issues. Her proactive philosophy encourages athletes to address potential problems early, long before they become debilitating.
Inspiring Lessons for All Athletes
Dr. Carrie Cooper’s insights offer valuable lessons for athletes, climbers, and anyone passionate about movement and health. Her dedication to blending science, experience, and passion has made her a leader in the growing field of climbing medicine and sports rehabilitation.
Don’t miss this episode of The Gnar Stool Podcast to hear Dr. Cooper’s full story and gain actionable advice for your own journey in movement, performance, and injury prevention. Hit the link to listen now!
