How to Understand and Manage Flare-Ups Without Panic, Quitting, or Starting Over

You’ve been putting in the work. Things were feeling better. Then suddenly—pain’s back. You’re spiraling, questioning your diagnosis, and wondering if you’re just broken.

In this episode, Craig and Alex unpack the real reason people relapse—even when their rehab was working. Spoiler: it’s not always about the diagnosis. They break down the four most common flare-up triggers, how to rebuild your therapeutic gap, and why managing your system matters more than chasing new treatments.

Whether you’re dealing with back pain, a cranky knee, or a wrist that won’t cooperate, this episode will help you stop panicking and start progressing again.

In this episode:

• The 4-step flare-up checklist

• How activity creep ruins recovery

• Why your system is “perfect” for your current outcome

• Hidden triggers and the trap of familiarity

• Using flare-ups to build mastery and autonomy

• Why identity mismatches can sabotage rehab

  
  

If you’ve ever felt like you were doing everything right and still backslid—this is for you.

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Need help managing pain, rebuilding capacity, or figuring out your rehab system?
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Alex – @spikerkeicher

Craig – @craigsmithPT

Past Your Prime is the podcast for active adults balancing training, rehab, family, and real life. Hosts Craig Smith (PT & coach) and Alex Keicher (pro athlete & busy dad) unpack real-world strategies to overcome injuries, stay strong, and keep moving—even when life gets chaotic.