Parisi Podcast 035- Pain Isn’t the Problem: Rethinking Rehab, Movement, and Performance with KC Carey

Feb 02, 2026

In this episode of the Parisi Performance Podcast, host Casey Lee sits down with Doctor of Physical Therapy KC Carey for an in-depth conversation on how pain, injury, and movement are often misunderstood in both rehab and performance settings. KC explains why pain does not always equal tissue damage, how movement variability plays a critical role in long-term resilience, and where traditional rehab models fall short when athletes return to training. Together, they discuss practical strategies for improving coach–clinician communication, guiding athletes through uncertainty, and progressing movement without fear. This episode challenges outdated narratives around “perfect form,” highlights the importance of context in movement assessment, and offers actionable insights for coaches, therapists, and athletes looking to train with confidence while managing pain intelligently.