Tom Swales, PT, MPT: From Pain to Performance: Understanding the Neurological Influence on Healing
- Author
- Karen Litzy
- Published
- Thu 21 Aug 2025
- Episode Link
- https://healthywealthysmart.libsyn.com/tom-swales-pt-mpt-from-pain-to-performance-understanding-the-neurological-influence-on-healing
In this episode of the Healthy, Wealthy, and Smart Podcast, host Dr. Karen Litzy welcomes Tom Swales, a seasoned physiotherapist and strength coach with over 20 years of experience in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance optimization. Tom shares his journey into physical therapy, driven by his passion for sports and a personal experience with injury that motivated him to understand the human body. He discusses the mind-body connection in movement and healing, and how it plays a crucial role in engaging clients. As the creator of the Advanced Movement Therapist certification, Tom provides valuable insights for professionals looking to enhance client outcomes and focus on peak performance. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the intersection of movement, healing, and professional growth in physical therapy.
Time Stamps:
[00:01:27] Passion for physical therapy journey.
[00:06:12] Understanding the human body.
[00:08:05] Neurological influence on movement.
[00:13:54] Nervous system's role in pain.
[00:16:46] Setting patient expectations.
[00:19:41] Mindfulness in chronic pain management.
[00:22:42] Self-assessments for progress tracking.
[00:26:30] Building resilience in chronic pain.
[00:30:12] Building resilience through small wins.
[00:34:20] Competing against yourself in workouts.
[00:36:19] Training for longevity vs. performance.
[00:40:52] Framework for effective clinical practice.
[00:45:19] Trust the process, be patient.
[00:00:00] Podcast introduction and gratitude.
More About Tom:
Tom Swales is a respected Physiotherapist and Strength Coach with over 20 years of experience in injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance optimization. He created the Advanced Movement Therapist (AMT) Certification to help professionals enhance client outcomes by focusing on peak performance.
As the founder of COMPHYSIO+ Performance Wellness, Tom has worked with professional athletes and consults for Olympic and international sports organizations, making him an expert guest for health and performance-related podcasts.
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