South African Sports Medicine Association

SASMA

A Medicine , Health & Fitness and Sports podcast

About the show

A great resource for athletes, coaches, and sports medicine enthusiasts. Hosted by experienced sports medicine professionals, this podcast is dedicated to exploring the latest research, innovations, and best practices in sports medicine. Each episode features in-depth discussions with leading experts in the field, including physicians, physiotherapists, sports scientists and sports psychologists. Our guests share their insights on topics such as injury prevention, rehabilitation, nutrition, mental health, and performance enhancement. They also share their experiences working with athletes of all levels, from amateur to professional.

Newest episodes

Better Together: Allied Health in Sports & Exercise Medicine

Oct 26, 2026 48 min

What does truly interdisciplinary athlete care look like? Join Dr Aasha Parshotam as she hosts a special SASMA conversation with: Ms Erin Dayaram – Podiatry Ms Natasha Deley – Biokinetics Dr Natalie Benjamin-Damons – Sports Physiotherapy Ms Aluwani Manenzhe – Sports Occupational Therapy Together, they unpack the unique role each discipline plays within Sports & Exercise Medicine - from biomechanics, gait and footwear, to rehabilitation, exercise prescription, psychological wellbeing, return to sport, functional recovery and whole-person care. The discussion also explores how interdisciplinary teams can work more effectively, when referral to allied health professionals can improve athlete outcomes, and where collaboration between doctors and allied health practitioners still has room to grow. We also look ahead to SASMA 2026, hearing what each guest is most excited about, what they hope to see more of within their profession, and why allied health professionals are such an essential part of the Sports & Exercise Medicine community. A conversation about collaboration, integrated care and keeping the athlete at the centre of every decision.

Athlete Mental Health: Understanding and Preventing Suicide

Oct 10, 2026 28 min

Join SASMA on World Mental Health Day 2026 as Dr James Burger speaks with Dr Bonginkosi Mafuze and Associate Professor Stephan Rabie for a discussion about suicide in athletes. They discuss suicidal behaviours, drivers of suicide, risk assessment, and the importance of starting conversations and connecting athletes with appropriate support. If you or someone you care about is struggling, please reach out to a healthcare professional or your local mental health support services. South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): https://www.sadag.org SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline 0800 567 567 (24 hours) SADAG office 011 234 4837 (08:00 to 17:00) SMS 31393 for a call back Cipla Mental Health Helpline 0800 456 789 (24 hours) WhatsApp a counsellor 076 882 2775 (08:00 to 17:00) LifeLine National Counselling Line 0861 322 322 LifeLine WhatsApp 065 989 9238 Netcare Akeso Crisis Line 0861 435 787 If in an immediate emergency, Emergency from a mobile 112 Police 10111 Ambulance 10177 Or go to your nearest emergency department For international and further help: https://findahelpline.com verified lines by country https://befrienders.org worldwide directory

Athletic Intelligence in Sports Medicine and Exercise Science

Oct 2, 2026 37 min

In this special collaboration between the South African Sports Medicine Association (SASMA) and the Enhanced Pod, Nick Pereira sits down with Professor Habib Noorbhai to explore the rapidly evolving intersection of sport science, medicine, technology and artificial intelligence. From athletic intelligence, data-driven decision-making and cricket batting biomechanics to markerless motion capture, precision-based sports science and spatial computing, the conversation explores how emerging technologies could shape the future of performance and rehabilitation. Habib also shares his perspective on democratizing access to technology in South Africa, the importance of interdisciplinary practice, and how clinicians can prepare themselves for a rapidly changing landscape. A forward-looking conversation for anyone working in sports medicine, performance, rehabilitation, research or athlete development.

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All episodes

Better Together: Allied Health in Sports & Exercise Medicine

Oct 26, 2026 48 min

Athlete Mental Health: Understanding and Preventing Suicide

Oct 10, 2026 28 min

Athletic Intelligence in Sports Medicine and Exercise Science

Oct 2, 2026 37 min

Chad le Clos: The Person Behind the Performance

Sep 29, 2026 33 min

What does it really take to perform at the highest level — and what happens beyond the medals, records and podiums? In this episode of the SASMA Podcast, Dr Kyle Winik sits down with Olympic champion Chad le Clos for an open and personal conversation about the journey behind elite performance. They explore the pressures of high-performance sport, identity beyond competition, mental health, setbacks and resilience, the importance of the people and medical teams surrounding an athlete, and the lessons Chad has learned through an extraordinary career. A conversation about swimming, certainly — but even more importantly, about the person behind the performance.

South African Training → Premier League Reality: Bridging Two Sporting Worlds

Sep 16, 2026 32 min

What does it take to go from South African medical training to working inside elite UK sport? In this episode of the SASMA Podcast, Dr Kyle Winik sits down with Dr Daniel Tadmor to explore his journey from South Africa into professional sport in the UK and ultimately the Premier League environment. They discuss the strengths of South African medical training, adapting to a different sporting culture, clinical decision-making in elite football, multidisciplinary teamwork, return-to-play pressures, building trust with athletes, and what the role of a team doctor really looks like behind the scenes. The conversation also offers practical insight for South African doctors hoping to build their own careers in elite and professional sport.

Medicine on Two Wheels: Inside the Tour de France with Dr David Ogg

Aug 25, 2026 33 min

In this exciting SASMA podcast, Dr Kerry-Ann Walton interviews her colleague, Dr David Ogg, after his recent success as one of team UAE’s team doctors at the Tour de France. David is a highly experienced medical doctor with a distinguished career in both emergency and sports medicine. In 2023, he joined the medical team for the UAE Team Emirates cycling team, and has just finished working his first Tour De France. In this podcast, David gives first-hand advice on many cycling-associated pathologies one can come across when working on a Grand Tour.

Supporting Mental Health and Performance at Multi-Sport Games

Aug 3, 2026 29 min

Join sports psychiatrist Dr James Burger as he interviews Team SA sports psychologist Dr Koketjo Tsebe from the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. Together, they discuss mental preparation, athlete wellbeing, supporting performance under pressure, navigating post-Games challenges, and the practical realities of providing psychological care in elite sport. An insightful conversation for athletes, coaches, clinicians, and anyone passionate about helping athletes thrive both in sport and beyond.

Beyond the Degree: Life, Balance, and Reinvention After the PhD

Jul 28, 2026 44 min

Welcome to the Research Masterclass series, a collaboration between the SASMA Podcast and the Research Masterminds Success Academy. This series was created for clinicians, academics, and professionals who are curious about research but often find the academic world opaque, intimidating, or complicated. The aim of this series is to slow that conversation down. We want to unpack research in a way that is honest, grounded, and practical. In this 6th and final episode, host Janesh Ganda sits down with Prof. Benita Olivier — Professor of Rehabilitation at Oxford Brookes University and Director of the Wits Cricket Research Hub for Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation, and founder of the Research Masterminds Success Academy focused on postgraduate productivity and work-life balance — alongside Ellen Dobson, Postdoctoral and Graduate Program Manager at the Morgridge Institute for Research, whose work centers on career development and networking for researchers transitioning beyond academia. Together they unpack what happens after the thesis is submitted: navigating identity shifts, career pivots, and sustaining wellbeing during and after doctoral study. The conversation draws on Benita’s own journey — completing her PhD in 2013 on cricket fast bowling biomechanics before building a career spanning clinical academia, sports science, and postgraduate mentorship — and Ellen’s experience guiding postdocs and graduate students through career exploration and networking strategies that go beyond the traditional academic track. Listeners will come away with practical insight into balancing research demands with personal life, redefining success after the PhD, and building a sustainable career path in academia, clinical practice, or industry.

“The Emails, The Edits, The Expectations” – The Research Love Story

Jun 23, 2026 33 min

Welcome to the Research Masterclass series, a collaboration between the SASMA Podcast and the Research Masterminds Success Academy. This series was created for clinicians, academics, and professionals who are curious about research but often find the academic world opaque, intimidating, or complicated. The aim of this series is to slow that conversation down. We want to unpack research in a way that is honest, grounded, and practical. In this fifth episode, we look at what really happens behind the scenes of a Masters or PhD journey. Beyond the proposals, deadlines, and late-night edits lies one of the most influential relationships in academia — the one between a researcher and their supervisor. In this insightful episode, Dr Aasha Parshotam sits down with world-renowned researcher Professor Benita Olivier and Sports and Exercise Medicine specialist and PhD candidate, Dr Dhavina Naidoo to unpack the realities of postgraduate research. From setting expectations and navigating difficult feedback to building resilience, confidence, and academic independence — this conversation explores the challenges, growth, and mentorship that shape not just your thesis, but your identity as a researcher. Whether you’re considering a Masters, deep in your PhD journey, or supervising the next generation of researchers, this episode is packed with practical advice, honest reflections, and lessons you’ll wish you heard sooner.

Research Podcast Series: AI in Research

May 26, 2026 31 min

The science behind the game: Inside cricket’s first sports medicine textbook

May 13, 2026 42 min

In this episode of the SASMA Podcast, cricket clinician Nick Pereira sits down with John W. Orchard and Benita Olivier — editors and co-authors of Cricket Sports Medicine — to unpack the making of cricket’s first dedicated sports medicine textbook and what it means for the future of the game. Bringing together contributors from across the global cricket landscape, the textbook represents a landmark step in bridging the gap between research, rehabilitation, performance, and real-world clinical practice. Across 39 chapters, it explores the unique medical and performance demands of cricket, from injury epidemiology and rehabilitation to youth athlete development and return-to-play decision making. Drawing on his experience as former Chief Medical Officer of Cricket Australia, Dr Orchard shares insights from decades working at the highest level of the game, including the persistent challenge of lumbar stress injuries in fast bowlers, the realities of load management, and how clinicians can better use injury surveillance and classification systems in practice. Prof Olivier provides the academic lens, discussing the collaborative process behind the textbook, the importance of standardising knowledge in cricket medicine, and the ongoing challenge of translating evidence into meaningful clinical outcomes. The link to purchase the textbook is available below: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-981-96-6321-7

From Performance to Pathology: Altitude Medicine Unpacked

Apr 24, 2026 24 min

In this episode of the SASMA Podcast, host Dr Kerry Walton is joined by Dr Sean Gottschalk to explore the extremes of emergency and sport and exercise medicine: Exercising at altitude. Inspired by insights from their own experiences, Sean and Kerry share some top tips on expeditions to altitude and what to expect and be ready for in terms of medical challenges. 10 top tips for aspiring expedition medics on how to summit Mount Kilimanjaro: 1) Get yourself a mentor 2) Befriend the stair master at the gym 3) Do not compromise on gear (especially your sleeping bag) 4) Wear in your hiking boots 5) Double glove 6) Protect your eyes 7) Create a ‘buddy system’ amongst the hikers 8) ‘Pole Pole’ (Ascend slowly) 9) ‘Sippy Sippy’ (Stay hydrated) 10) Success is getting everyone down safely, not to the summit.

Research Podcast Series: Thrive, Don't just survive

Apr 10, 2026 34 min

Welcome to the Research Masterclass series, a collaboration between the SASMA Podcast and the Research Masterminds Success Academy. This series was created for clinicians, academics, and professionals who are curious about research but often find the academic world opaque, intimidating, or complicated. The aim of this series is to slow that conversation down. We want to unpack research in a way that is honest, grounded, and practical. In this third episode of the series, we are joined by Professor Benita Olivier, and Franso-Marie Olivier to unpack whether it is possible for a balance to exist between research and life. Can we maintain our sanity? Can a social life and well-being exist while conducting research? Links as discussed in the podcast: Rethinking work-life balance: A researcher's guide to designing a sustainable academic life: https://www.researchmasterminds.com/blog/rethinking-work-life-balance From struggling to flourishing: a research-backed framework for PhD wellbeing and productivity: https://www.researchmasterminds.com/blog/phd-wellbeing-and-productivity Why your research identity matters as much as your methodology: The hidden foundation of academic success: https://www.researchmasterminds.com/blog/why-your-research-identity-matters Energy management: The secret weapon in academic productivity: https://www.researchmasterminds.com/blog/energy-management-in-academic-productivity

Research Podcast Series: Smarter Research Starts Here: Study Design & Proposal Development

Mar 15, 2026 35 min

Sports Dentistry

Mar 4, 2026 30 min

In this episode of the SASMA Podcast, host Dr Aasha Parshotam is joined by Dr Bhavik Ganda, Dr Umair Mohammed, and Dr John Haughey to explore the emerging field of sports dentistry and its growing role in athlete health and performance. From the prevention and management of dentofacial injuries to the impact of oral health on recovery, fatigue, and confidence, the discussion highlights why dentistry should be an integral part of the multidisciplinary sports medicine team. Inspired by insights from the South African Sports Dentistry Conference, this episode sheds light on how clinicians, coaches, and athletes can better protect both performance and long-term oral health.

Research Podcast Series: I want to do research, where do I start?

Feb 25, 2026 29 min

Building Sports Medicine in Mauritius: From Vision to Reality with Dr Adisha Bhola

Nov 5, 2025 19 min

In this episode of the SASMA Podcast, Dr Aasha Parshotam sits down with Dr Adisha Bhola, President of the Sports and Exercise Medicine Association of Mauritius (SEMA) and Chief Medical Officer of the Mauritius Rugby Federation, to explore how a small island nation is becoming a model for integrated, evidence-based sports and exercise medicine in Africa. Dr Bhola shares her journey from London to Mauritius and the challenges of establishing a sports-medicine system from the ground up. Together they unpack: How Mauritius is using exercise prescription programmes to tackle non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension.The creation of the Institute of Sports Medicine and the role of public-private-academic collaboration.Behind-the-scenes medical planning for the Mauritius Sevens tournament, including tropical health risks and emergency protocols.The future vision for sports and exercise medicine in Mauritius — from specialty recognition to embedding exercise in primary care.This inspiring conversation highlights how leadership, community partnerships, and education can transform athlete care and public health — even in resource-limited settings.

Inside the Cape Town Marathon: Event Medicine, Risk & Readiness with Dr Darren Green

Oct 13, 2025 42 min

In this SASMA Podcast episode, host Aasha sits down with Dr Darren Green—Chief Medical Officer for Mediclinic Corporate Events and CMO to flagship races and rugby tournaments—to unpack how a city readies itself, medically and operationally, for the Cape Town Marathon as it bids for Abbott World Marathon Majors status. Dr Green lifts the lid on the real engine room of race day: ER24’s pre-hospital response, doctor–nurse route stations, a 28-bed finish-line race hospital with ICU capability and rapid cold-water immersion, and the live Venue Operations Centre coordinating police, traffic, disaster management, and medical dispatch in real time. He explains how spring weather, heat, wind, humidity, and radiant tar impact risk and performance, and walks through the most common clinical presentations—from heat illness, hyponatremia, and rhabdomyolysis to MSK overload and postural hypotension—plus practical prevention for runners. We also spotlight the 100+ UCT and Stellenbosch volunteers gaining frontline experience and the broader public-health legacy of hosting a world-class marathon in Africa.

The Athlete’s Voice: Gio Aplon on Trust, Injury, and Medical Care in Rugby

Oct 1, 2025 1 hr 0 min

In this episode of the SASMA Podcast’s Athlete’s Voice series, former Springbok and Stormers star Gio Aplon shares his journey through 16 years of professional rugby. From being told he was “too small” to play at the highest level, Gio reflects on how resilience and adaptability shaped his career. He opens up about the pressures of proving himself, the mental toll of injuries, and the challenges of navigating long-term rehab. Gio also highlights the importance of trust between athletes and sports medicine professionals, offering valuable lessons for those working in high-performance environments. This candid conversation provides a rare look into the mindset of an elite athlete and what it truly takes to survive at the top

Building the Future of Sport & Exercise Medicine in South Africa – With Prof. Martin Schwellnus

Sep 15, 2025 23 min

In this episode of the SASMA Podcast, host Kyle Winik speaks with Prof. Martin Schwellnus — a global authority in Sport and Exercise Medicine, Director of the IOC Research Center in South Africa, and President of the College of Sport and Exercise Medicine SA. They explore the evolution of sport and exercise medicine in South Africa — from its academic beginnings at UCT in the early 1990s to the specialty’s official recognition in 2020. Prof. Schwellnus shares his insights on the College’s role in athlete care, its broader impact on fighting non-communicable diseases through exercise prescription, and the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration. Importantly, the conversation looks ahead to the College of Sport and Exercise Medicine’s upcoming conference this October in Johannesburg, where experts and practitioners will gather to discuss advances in athlete health, chronic disease prevention, and the future of the specialty in South Africa. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in how sport and exercise medicine is shaping both elite performance and public health.

Return to Rugby Postpartum: Navigating the Mother-Athlete Journey

Sep 1, 2025 50 min

In this episode of the SASMA Podcast, Dr. Minjon Ras speaks with Dr. Izzy Moore, Joanna Perkins, and Dr. Leigh Gordon about the newly released Post-Partum Guidelines on returning to rugby after pregnancy (published by the English RFU). Together they unpack the six-phase pathway designed to support female athletes, explore the physical and mental health considerations unique to postpartum recovery, and discuss the role of coaches, medical teams, and performance staff in creating a supportive environment. The conversation blends evidence, personal experiences, and practical advice—empowering athletes and practitioners to ensure that returning to rugby postpartum is safe, individualized, and sustainable. Don’t forget to like and subscribe to the show so you never miss an episode! You can read the full guidelines here: World Rugby Postpartum Guidance Follow us on Instagram: SASMA Podcast

Pathways & Passions: Navigating Careers in Sports Medicine

Aug 4, 2025 28 min

In this inspiring episode, host Dr. Aasha Parshotam sits down with two trailblazers in South African sports medicine—Dr. Lervasen Pillay and Dr. Phathokuhle Zondi—to explore the diverse and dynamic career trajectories within the field. From grassroots beginnings to national and international leadership roles, the discussion delves into the motivations, mentorship, and mindset needed to thrive in sports medicine. Whether you're a student, a clinician, or someone curious about the profession, this conversation offers personal insights, practical advice, and a powerful reflection on purpose and impact in healthcare.

Balancing the Line: Ethics in Sports Medicine

Jul 10, 2025 49 min

In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Janesh Ganda is joined by Professor Ross McKinney, a bioethicist, and Clint Readhead, General Manager of Medical at the South African Rugby Union, to explore the complex ethical landscape of Sports Medicine. Together, they unpack the challenges of dual loyalty, the evolving role of team doctors, and the tension between athlete welfare and performance demands. Drawing from real-world experience and ethical frameworks, this conversation offers valuable insights for clinicians, administrators, and anyone involved in high-performance sport.

Inside the Concussion In Sports Group Conference: Key Takeaways with Prof Jon Patricios & Dr Leigh Gordon

Jun 18, 2025 24 min

In this insightful episode, Dr Daniel Tadmor hosts two leading voices in sports medicine—Prof Jon Patricios and Dr Leigh Gordon—for a debrief on the Concussion in Sports Group (CISG) conference. The trio unpacks major updates to concussion management, emerging research themes, and the clinical implications following the Amsterdam Consensus Statement. Whether you're a clinician, researcher, or simply passionate about athlete brain health, this episode offers a sharp and accessible overview of where the field is headed.

Balancing Science and Instinct: Nick Pereira and Dr. Wayne Lombard on High-Performance Sport in a Global Context

May 2, 2025 29 min

In this thought-provoking episode, Nick Pereira sits down with Dr. Wayne Lombard — an international sport scientist and researcher with deep roots in South African high-performance sport. Together, they unpack some of the biggest shifts, challenges, and opportunities in international sports medicine. From load management and return-to-play decisions, to how data and intuition must coexist in elite environments, Dr. Lombard shares insights from his years working within IPL cricket, Olympic Hockey and various national teams. They also dive into how South Africa’s unique sporting landscape shapes (and sometimes disrupts) global best practices. This is a must-listen for coaches, clinicians, athletes, and anyone passionate about performance and recovery at the highest level.

Inside the Huddle: Visions and Goals for SASMAs future

Feb 12, 2025 19 min

In this first episode for 2025, Dr Kyle Winik, meets up with Dr Adrian Rotunno, our newly elected SASMA President for 2024-2026. Adrian highlights the importance of SASMA, his visions and goals for the next two years and how together by collaborating we can all make a difference in growing the field of Sport and Exercise Medicine.

The Critical Role of Sports Dentistry in High-Performance Teams

Nov 12, 2024 24 min

In this insightful episode of The SASMA Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Umair Mohamed, a leading Sports Dentist, to delve into the often-overlooked yet crucial role of dental care in elite sports. Dr. Mohammed shares his expertise on the importance of oral health in athletic performance, discussing how issues like dental trauma, infections, and even minor oral problems can impact player performance and recovery. We explore the proactive measures a Sports Dentist takes to protect athletes, including custom mouthguards and dental screenings, and how their integration into a high-performance medical team can prevent injuries and contribute to overall player welfare. This episode is a must-listen for sports medicine professionals and anyone interested in understanding the comprehensive care required to keep athletes at the top of their game. For more information on the conference please visit : https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/uk-sports-dentistry-association-launch-event-tickets-930210854707

Unraveling the Complexity of Hamstring Injuries: Live from Rome

Oct 29, 2024 14 min

In this episode, Dr Kyle Winik is joined by Adam Weir, Hans Tol, and Rod Whiteley, all actively involved in the Sport and exercise medicine field to discuss hamstring injuries and an approach to a challenging injury in practice. This was recorded live from the IOC 15th Advanced Team Physician Course, in Rome, Italy. Through the episode they discuss an approach to a patient with a hamstring injury but also tackle some important questions about if there are any ways to speed up or predict an accurate return to play.

Cancer and Exercise - Let’s beat it together

Oct 13, 2024 22 min

In this episode Dr Kyle Winik is joined by Dr Lervasen Pillay, a Sport and Exercise Physician who has a keen interest in Exercise and Cancer. Through the episode they discuss an approach to a patient battling cancer and try to give an approach to change the narrative that exercise can be used as a tool in cancer management. Join us at SASMA conference Day 1, for an Exercise and Cancer Workshop.

The launch of the Sport and Exercise Psychiatry Group with Dr James Burger and Dr Bonginkosi Mafuze

Oct 9, 2024 40 min

An introduction to Sports Psychiatry: In this podcast dedicated to Mental Health Day, Dr Kerry-Ann Walton talks to Dr James Burger and Dr Bonginkosi Mafuze about the important and upcoming field of Sports Psychiatry. The aim of this podcast is to give the listeners an idea of the activities of a Sports Psychiatrist and hopefully encourage further discussions on other topics in the field. Links to articles discussed: Burger JW, Mafuze B, Brooker J, Patricios JS. Championing mental health: sport and exercise psychiatry for low- and middle-income countries using a model from South Africa. Br J Sports Med. 2024 May 2;58(10):519-521. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2024-108248 Burger JW & Mafuze B. Getting psyched up: Developing the field of Sport and Exercise Psychiatry in South Africa. South African Journal of Sports Medicine, 2023; 35(1). https://doi.org/10.17159/2078-516X/2023/v35i1a16352 Claussen MC, Currie A, Koh Boon Yau E, Nishida M, Martínez V, Burger J, Creado S, Schorb A, Nicola RF, Pattojoshi A, Menon R, Glick I, Whitehead J, Edwards C, Baron D. First international consensus statement on sports psychiatry. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2024 Apr;34(4):e14627. https://doi.org/10.1111/sms.14627

Pulse Check: Strengthening Hearts Through Movement

Oct 3, 2024 24 min

In this episode, a collaboration between SASMA and BASA, Dr Kyle Winik, is joined by Tayla Ross, a Biokineticist, and lecturer at UCT, currently completing her PHD and perusing her passion of “Developing a Public Sector Cardiac Rehabilitation Program. In this episode they discuss the importance of cardiac rehabilitation for all stages of cardiac disease and the approach to any cardiac patient.

The (Un)Productivity Series : Part 1

Sep 23, 2024 24 min

In this first episode of our productivity series, we talk about simple ways for academics and clinicians to manage their busy schedules better. Learn practical tips to help you stay on top of your work, make the most of your time, and avoid burnout. Whether you’re in the classroom or the clinic, these easy strategies will help you get more done and feel less stressed. Join us to discover how to work smarter, not harder!

Broaching the intricacies of Gymnastic Medicine - with Dr Emily Sweeney and Dr Christian Schaap

Sep 9, 2024 30 min

In this episode we have a chat with this year’s American Medical Society for Sports Medicine(AMSSM) Global Exchange Program to South Africa candidate Dr Emily Sweeney. Doctor Sweeney is a Pediatric Sport Medicine Physician currently practising at Children’s Hospital Colorado in Denver. She will also be a speaker at the biannual SASMA Conference in October later this year. Being a previous elite level gymnast who retired at a young age due to a back injury, Doctor Sweeney has a unique perspective to gymnastic medicine. Despite retiring as an athlete she remained very involved with the sport and now serves as a practitioner to many gymnasts suffering with gymnastics related injuries and pathology. The discussion touches on numerous gymnastics medicine topics, like mental health, diversification of skills and lessons from the recent Paris Olympics. Some of the articles referred to in the episode: -Returning to Sports After Gymnastics Injuries: https://journals.lww.com/acsm-csmr/fulltext/2018/11000/returning_to_sport_after_gymnastics_injuries.7.aspx?WT.mc_id=EMxALLx20100222xxFRIEND -Health outcomes among former female collegiate gymnasts: the influence of sport specialization, concussion, and disordered eating: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00913847.2020.1850150?scroll=top&needAccess=true

Inhale, Exhale, Excel: Mastering Respiratory Illness with Dr Kyle Winik, Dr Marcel Jooste and Dr Carolette Cloete

Jul 23, 2024 28 min

Respiratory health in athletes, which is the most common system affected by illness in athletes, can often be tricky to manage or approach. This SASMA podcast delves into a very engaging and robust discussion with two very knowledgeable guests. Dr Kyle Winik chats with Dr Marcel Jooste and Dr Carolette Cloete, who are both Sports and Exercise physicians based at SEMLI, The Sport & Exercise Medicine Lifestyle Institute, in Pretoria, South Africa, under the leadership of Prof Martin Schwellnus. They discuss important tools or concepts to adopt in clinical practice as well as updates to current knowledge in respiratory illness in athletes. Attached are the Current IOC Guidelines in respiratory health as well as NB tips and tricks to get familiar with. Jooste, Marcel & Schwellnus, Martin. (2024). Countermeasures to reduce the risk of infections at the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games—A balancing act. Journal of Sport and Health Science http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jshs.2024.05.009 Prevention of Infections in Track and Field Athletes - Top Tips - Aspetar Journal https://journal.aspetar.com/en/archive/volume-13-targeted-topic-sports-medicine-in-athletics/prevention-of-infections-in-track-and-field-athletes-top-tips Schwellnus M, Adami PE, Bougault V, et al International Olympic Committee (IOC) consensus statement on acute respiratory illness in athletes part 2: non-infective acute respiratory illness British Journal of Sports Medicine 2022;56:1089-1103. https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/56/19/1089

Leading the medical teams at large sporting events in South Africa - a conversation with Dr Darren Green.

Jul 17, 2024 1 hr 12 min

In today's episode we continue to delve into Event Medicine, specifically the role of the Chief Medical Officer, in the South African context. Drs Christian Schaap and Darren Green discuss the roles, intricacies and challenges that the Chief Medical Officer is faced with at large sporting events. Dr Green is a Sport and Exercise Medicine Physician who serves as the Chief Medical Officer at multiple large sporting events like the Rugby Sevens World Championship, Cape Town Marathon and ABSA Cape Epic. He is currently heading the medical team at the World Rugby u/20 World Championship in Cape Town.

Groote Schuur Concussion Clinic

Jun 10, 2024 23 min

In this episode, we explore the expanding role of Sports and Exercise Medicine (SEM) in public health. Dr. Phato Zondi, in the latest BJSM editorial, highlights SEM’s impact on promoting physical activity, preventing injuries, and enhancing health outcomes beyond elite athletes. (Access the article through the GlueUp app for SASMA members : https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2024-108374) In 2016, UCT and Stellenbosch University opened Sports Injury Clinics, making diagnosis and rehabilitation accessible to the broader population. These clinics are staffed by SEM physicians and supported by sports physiotherapists who lead patient rehabilitation. Now, Dr. Leigh Gordon from Cape Town has launched the first state-based concussion clinic at GSH Hospital, emphasizing that concussions affect everyone, not just athletes. For information regarding referrals to the clinic see more information on https://www.sportsconcussion.co.za/medical-team/

SASMA President - Dr Sharief Hendricks

May 28, 2024 18 min

In today's episode, we chat with Dr. Sharief Hendricks, President of SASMA, about the upcoming SASMA conference in Stellenbosch. He discusses the key topics and significance of the event. Dr. Hendricks also provides an update on SASMA, highlighting new collaborations and recent developments within the association aimed at advancing sports medicine. Link for registration for the SASMA2024 conference : https://sasma2024.co.za

Catching up with Craig Govender

May 10, 2024 26 min

In todays episode, Amish Kooverjee gives us an insight in to Craig Govender’s career as a physiotherapist working in the professional cricket game. We follow the journey into Craig’s career and where he began as a young cricket player and now working with some of the biggest teams in the cricketing world, including a career highlight of working with the SA Mens cricket team. Craig explains his life on the road and the challenges it poses along with the interdisciplinary approach that comes with working with different athletes and technical teams in an ever changing environment.

Overcoming the challenges of Sport and Exercise Medicine events

Apr 15, 2024 36 min

In this episode, we are joined by two highly experienced and well travelled sport and exercise physicians. Our host, Dr Kyle Winik chats to Dr Louis Holtzhausen and Dr Celeste Geertsema about what it takes to plan and go about ensuring a high level of care at large sporting events. Through this episode, listeners will be able to take away hot tips to assist their planning or working at a mass participation event.

All Africa Games 2024 - The medical team behind Team South Africa

Mar 18, 2024 37 min

In todays episode, we have a special recording of our medical team behind Team South Africa competing at the All Africa Games in Accra, Ghana. This episode is hosted by Dr Chanel Dewar and includes Dr Gavin Shang (Chief Medical Officer), Dr Phathokuhle Zondi, Dr Minjon Ras, Dr Kerry-Ann Walton and Dr Busani Mabaso. The team chats around the build up to a multi-coded event such as All Africa Games, the day to day work involved in such a setting and the work which is required to prepare and care for the competing athletes. This episode serves to give insight into multi-coded events and the importance of being a team within a team.

Sports Physiotherapy - A conversation between Sibusiso Moyo and Sean Croxford

Mar 13, 2024 52 min

In this episode, Sibu Moyo interviews fellow physiotherapist Sean Croxford and dives into the world of sports physiotherapy, being part of a team set up, travelling with a team and the role of sports physiotherapy in sports medicine - as well as everything in between

The evolution of medical care in South African Hockey

Feb 16, 2024 54 min

In today’s episode we look back at an exciting interview with Dr Gavin Shang (Chief Medical Officer of the South African Hockey Association), after a double AFCON gold & subsequent Olympic qualification for both the Men’s & Women’s hockey sides. Dr Minjon Ras and Dr Gavin Shang chat all things hockey and the challenges surrounding amateur sports in South Africa.

Concussion Awareness Training Tool- Let’s train our brain before it’s too late

Jan 11, 2024 32 min

In this episode, Dr Kyle Winik, chats to Dr Shelina Babul, the Associate Director and Sports Injury Specialist with the British Colombia Injury Research and Prevention Unit at the British Colombia Children’s Hospital. She focuses primarily on sport and recreational evidence-based research and knowledge implementation, with a particular specialisation in concussions and traumatic brain injuries as well as their prevention, recognition, treatment, and management. Developed by Dr. Shelina Babul, The Concussion Awareness Training Tool (CATT) is a series of online educational modules and resources addressing concussion recognition, diagnosis, treatment, and management. Good concussion management may decrease the risk of brain damage and potentially reduce long-term health issues. These modules are available for medical professionals, coaches, parents, school professionals and athletes. For more information on the CATT please visit https://cattonline.com We hope you enjoy the talk as well as the training tool attached. Send us any feedback by following our Instagram page @sasma.podcast.

Sports Cardiology - Cardiovascular adaptations to exercise

Dec 13, 2023 1 hr 3 min

In this epidode, Dr Jan Peter Smedema chats to Associate Professor Thijs Eijsvogel about the cardiovascular adaptations to exercise and differences between sporting disciplines, races, and sexes; the relevance of cardiac troponins in athletes; and the need to target sedentary behaviour as well as optimal step counts for all cause mortality. Dr Jan Peter Smedema is a general and interventional cardiologist, PhD graduate, and founder of the Sports Cardiovascular Research Program, practicing at Netcare Blouberg in Cape Town. Associate Professor Thijs Eijsvogels trained in exercise physiology at Radboud University (PhD degree, NL), Hartford Hospital (postdoc, USA), and Liverpool John Moores University (postdoc, UK) and he is currently appointed as associate professor at the department of Physiology of the Radboud university medical center. His primary interest lies in the physiological and cardiac responses of the human body to acute and chronic (endurance) exercise performance. We hope you enjoy this episode and we would love your feedback. Follow us on Instagram at @sasma.podcast for all the episodes and to get in touch.

Springbok medical team - insights into the medical team behind the back to back World Cup winning Springboks

Nov 30, 2023 1 hr 6 min

The Springboks are back to back World Cup Champions after a successful campaign at the Rugby World Cup in France. In today’s episode we chat to the medical and athletic performance departments of the Springboks and dive into their individual journey’s to the Springbok team, their work done before and during the campaign that saw the Springboks victorious and listen to them share valuable advice to younger professionals looking to get into team sports. Thanks to Dr Jerome Mampane (Team Doctor), Rene Naylor and Dr Anuerin Robyn (Team Physiotherapists) and Andy Edwards and Bongani Tim Qumbu (Athletic Performance).

Training, Racing and Injury in Paddlers

Nov 23, 2023 31 min

Andy Birkett: world champion paddler. Flat water and river paddling. Nominated as 1 of 3 sportsmen of the year last year. Garth Oliver: Andy’s physio when he used to live in Pietermaritzburg. Owns his own multidisciplinary practice called Movewell in Hilton. Treated and worked with an array of professional athletes and sporting disciplines. Both give insight into training, racing, injuries and illnesses seen in paddlers.

Cycling and High Performance with Prof Jeroen Swart

Nov 23, 2023 42 min

In todays episode we chat to Prof Jeroen Swart, a Professor of Sports Medicine at the University of Cape Town and Specialist in Sports and Exercise Medicine. Jeroen holds a PhD in exercise science and is responsible for the co-ordination coaching & performance activities at Team UAE Cycling, as the Performance Co-ordinator. Jeroen is a highly cited researcher in cycling medicine and was previously the Medical Director of Team UAE.

Sports Cardiology - Pre-participation in athletes and sudden cardiac arrest.

Nov 23, 2023 1 hr 11 min

In todays episode, Dr Jan Peter Smedema (https://drsmedema.com/about-dr-jp-smedema/), a cardiologist based in Netcare Blouberg, Cape Town, chats to Prof Michael Papadakis about the role of pre-participation evaluation in athletes and sudden cardiac arrest in young, active individuals. Prof Papadakis (Assoc Prof) is based in Cardiology at St George’s, University of London and an Honorary Consultant Cardiologists at St George’s University Hospitals. He is the course director a novel MSc degree in Sports Cardiology, the first postgraduate qualification of its kind, and serve as the chair of the section of Sports Cardiology and Exercise of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology (EAPC). His interests include sports cardiology, inherited cardiac diseases, cardiovascular disease prevention including prevention of sudden cardiac death in young and athletic individuals, heart failure and cardiac imaging.

The Female Athlete

Nov 23, 2023 26 min

In a special Women’s Month podcast, Dr Nikita Fensham chats to Dr Kathryn Ackerman about being a woman in sports medicine and her experience working with female athletes. Dr Ackerman is a sports medicine physician and endocrinologist, and medical director of the Female Athlete Program in the Sports Medicine Division at Boston’s Children’s Hospital. In this podcast, she shares her knowledge and expertise around various issues concerning the female athlete, including the menstrual cycle, relative energy deficiency in sport, and bone health, as well as where research in female athletes is heading.

Tour de France Special! Interview with Dr Adrian Rotunno from UAE Team Emirates

Nov 23, 2023 33 min

In today’s episode, Dr Minjon Ras hosts Dr Adrian Rotunno as we take a sneak peak into his life as the medical director of UAE Team Emirates Pro Cycling Team. Dr Rotunno shares his passion for cycling medicine and provides valuable information regarding the pre-race, in-race & post-race considerations when it comes to preparation for a multi-stage tour.

See all 52 episodes

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Better Together: Allied Health in Sports & Exercise Medicine

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Podcast details

Created by: South African Sports Medicine Association
Status: Active
Latest episode: Oct 26, 2026
Episodes: 52
Release period: Every two weeks
Avg. episode length: 36 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

Links

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