Explore every episode of the podcast APTA Orthopedics Podcasts - Previously Ortho Static

Join us for this session in the Animal PT Webinar Series, hosted by Sasha Foster, PT, MS, President of the Animal PT SIG (https://sashaafoster.com), with special guests Dr. Kristin Kirkby Shaw and Dr. Ilana Struble, MA, DVM, CVSMT, CCRT, CVAT (www.awelladjustedpet.com), respected leaders in veterinary orthopedics, sports medicine, and animal rehabilitation.

This conversation gives physical therapists a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how veterinary clinics truly operate and what it takes to successfully integrate into the veterinary care team. The panel discusses real-world collaboration between PTs and veterinarians, diagnostic challenges in animal medicine, and the skills PTs need to build credibility, confidence, and trust in the veterinary ecosystem.

You’ll hear practical insights from experienced clinicians on communication, clinical reasoning, and navigating referrals while keeping the pet’s best interest at the center of care.

What You’ll Learn:

✓ How veterinary clinics function day to day

✓ What veterinarians expect from physical therapists

✓ How to communicate effectively with veterinarians and specialists

✓ Why diagnoses may change and how PTs should respond

✓ Ways to build trust, confidence, and long-term collaboration in animal practice

Target Audience:

Physical therapists, animal physical therapists, veterinary rehabilitation professionals, PT students, animal rehab clinicians, sports medicine PTs, veterinarians, veterinary specialists, animal rehab educators

Join host Kelsy Hill, PT, DPT, OCS, as she sits down with John Morris, PT, DSc, MBA, OCS, FAAOMPT, Cert. MDT, to explore what sets high-performing orthopedic physical therapists apart. Learn practical strategies for improving patient outcomes, building stronger therapeutic relationships, and developing critical soft skills that elevate your clinical practice.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

- How to use evidence-based guidelines effectively without feeling protocol-bound

- The importance of mentorship and the clinical ladder in professional growth

- Tips for developing soft skills, communication, and patient-centered care

- Strategies to foster humility, reflection, and comfort with clinical uncertainty

- Differences in approach for cervical vs lumbar spine treatment

Perfect for PTs, residency programs, and clinical educators looking to enhance their practice and support their teams.

Join ESPN’s Stephania Bell, PT, OCS Emeritus, CSCS, as she sits down at AOSSM 2025 with Dr. Scott Rodeo — Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Vice Chair of Research at Hospital for Special Surgery, Director of the HSS Center for Regenerative Medicine, and Head Team Physician for the New York Giants.

In this conversation, Dr. Rodeo breaks down the rapidly evolving world of orthobiologics, including what current evidence supports, where the biggest gaps in knowledge still exist, and how clinicians can navigate PRP, stem cell therapies, and patient expectations in today’s sports medicine landscape.

Physical therapists will learn about:

- The strongest indications for PRP in athletic populations

- What platelet-poor plasma (PPP) is and why it may benefit muscle injuries

- The realities and limitations of “stem cell” therapies in 2025

- Key regulatory restrictions in the United States vs. overseas practices

- How to counsel athletes exploring medical tourism for regenerative treatments

- Emerging cellular technologies and where the science is heading

Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, sports physical therapists, athletic trainers, sports medicine surgeons, sports performance clinicians, strength and conditioning coaches, rehab directors, PT students, and sports science professionals.

Join ESPN’s Stephania Bell, PT, OCS Emeritus, CSCS, as she sits down at AOSSM 2025 with Dr. Riley J. Williams — Chief of the Sports Medicine Institute at Hospital for Special Surgery, Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medical College, and Head Team Orthopedic Surgeon for the Brooklyn Nets, New York Liberty, and New York Red Bulls.

In this conversation, Dr. Williams discusses the evolution of cartilage repair in high-level athletes, innovations in minimally invasive procedures, and strategies to optimize return-to-play while protecting long-term joint health.

Physical therapists will learn about:

- Surgical options for articular cartilage repair and their long-term outcomes

- How recovery timelines and return-to-play expectations have evolved for elite athletes

- The role of less invasive interventions like subchondroplasty and blood flow restriction

- Early detection and management of wear-and-tear cartilage injuries in high-load sports

- How cumulative training loads and year-round play affect joint health in basketball and other sports

Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, sports physical therapists, athletic trainers, sports medicine surgeons, sports performance clinicians, strength and conditioning coaches, rehab directors, PT students, sports science professionals

In this episode of the APTA Orthopedics Podcast, host Luciano Garcia, PT, ScD, OCS, COMT, interviews Dr. Jenny Hobson, PT, DPT, MTC, CFC, CMTPT, a European-trained physical therapist and airway specialist. Dr. Hobson is one of only two PTs in the U.S. authorized to teach Dr. Mariano Rocabado’s internationally recognized method, integrating airway, posture, and oral-motor dynamics into physical therapy practice.

Topics Covered:

Airway–Posture Connection: How craniofacial development, spinal alignment, and breathing/swallowing patterns impact airway function and related dysfunctions.

Breath & Oral Posture Strategies: Nasal breathing retraining, tongue-to-soft-palate stabilization, and regulation of breath volume.

Full-Body PT Integration: Ribcage mobility, spinal alignment, and postural restoration to support airway stability and overall health.

Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, PT students, manual therapy clinicians, postural restoration specialists, airway rehabilitation therapists, sports PTs, pediatric PTs, adult rehab specialists

Join Stephania Bell, PT, OCS Emeritus, CSCS—senior writer and injury analyst for ESPN—as she sits down at AOSSM 2025 with Dr. Mike Banffy, Chief of Sports Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Orthopedics, Head Team Orthopedic Physician for the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Team Physician for the Los Angeles Rams.

Dr. Banffy breaks down what it takes to care for multiple elite teams simultaneously—from managing diverse injury patterns across baseball and football to navigating the demanding in-season schedules of two high-performance organizations.

Physical therapists will gain insight into:

- Balancing athlete care across two professional teams

- Managing workload, communication, and performance demands in baseball vs. football

- How team structure impacts rehab timelines and return-to-play decisions

- The complexities of in-season care for elite, high-value athletes

- Key considerations when coordinating care with large medical and performance staffs

Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, sports physical therapists, sports medicine clinicians, athletic trainers, orthopedic surgeons, performance coaches

Join ESPN’s Stephania Bell, PT, OCS Emeritus, CSCS, as she sits down at AOSSM 2025 with Dr. Matt Provencher — retired U.S. Navy Captain, Professor of Surgery and Orthopedics at The Steadman Clinic, and CEO of The Predictors.

In this conversation, Dr. Provencher discusses the evolution of shoulder instability management, how predictive analytics informs NFL and military medical decisions, and why interdisciplinary communication is essential for optimizing outcomes.

Physical therapists will learn about:

- Choosing the right stabilization procedure based on athlete profile, sport, and imaging

- How surgical outcomes in shoulder instability have improved over the last 20–25 years

- The critical role of integrated care teams and communication (PTs, ATs, S&C, nutrition, surgeons)

- How “The Predictors” uses data to support decisions for teams, agents, and players

- Why AI and analytics are shaping the future of orthopedic care and rehab planning

Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, sports physical therapists, athletic trainers, sports medicine surgeons, sports performance clinicians, strength and conditioning coaches, rehab directors, PT students, sports science professionals

Discover how APTA Orthopedics is addressing administrative burdens and utilization management challenges affecting orthopedic physical therapists.

In this Advocacy Update, host Bob Hall sits down with Anthony DiFilippo, PT, past APTA Board Member and chair of the Utilization Management Subcommittee, to discuss:

- How utilization management can shift from denial-driven to outcomes-driven

- The impact of prior authorization on patient care and clinician workload

- Strategies to reduce administrative burden through evidence-based approaches

- Linking clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) to auto-authorization for common MSK conditions

- Collaboration with SPARC, APTA Regulatory Affairs, and Private Practice to push national reform

- Transparency in digital risk scores and tiered authorization systems

- Policy priorities to support adaptive, patient-centered care

- How PTs can leverage new APTA resources to improve practice efficiency

This conversation is essential for PTs navigating payer policies, helping them stay informed and advocate for better patient care.

Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, Clinic managers and owners, PTs navigating prior authorization and utilization management, APTA Orthopedics members, PT students interested in advocacy, Clinicians seeking policy updates and best practices

Join us for the third session in our Animal PT Webinar Series, hosted by Sasha Foster, PT, CCRT, President of the Animal PT SIG (https://sashaafoster.com), with special guests Karen Atlas, PT, CCRT (Atlas Rehabilitation for Canines) and Kirk Peck, PT, PhD, CSCS, CCRT (https://www.creighton.edu/campus-directory/peck-kirk-m).

This session breaks down the often confusing licensing landscape for Animal Physical Therapy and provides clarity on how PTs can navigate state practice acts, pursue appropriate pathways, and advocate for growth in the profession.

You will hear real examples from clinicians and leaders actively shaping state regulations and supporting PTs who are entering or expanding their work in animal practice.

What You’ll Learn:

✓ Key steps and common challenges in the animal PT licensing process

✓ How state practice acts influence what PTs are allowed to do in animal care

✓ How advocacy efforts and the Animal SIG support clinicians pursuing this specialty

Join the APTSIG: https://www.orthopt.org/content/special-interest-groups/animal-physical-therapy

Join the APTSIG Community: https://aopt.connectedcommunity.org/home

APTA Legislative Podcast Script: www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/4.APTA_Legislative_Podcast_Script_UPDATED_11_14_25.docx

Animal Physical Therapy - State Practice Acts Matrix 2025: www.orthopt.org//uploads/content_files/files/3.Animal_Physical_Therapy_State_Practice_Acts_Matrix_2025.pdf

Animal Physical Therapy - Issue Brief Inclusion of Animal Physical Therapy within the State Physical Therapy Practice Act: www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/2Animal_Physical_Therapy_Issue_Brief_Inclusion_of_Animal_Physical_Therapy_Within_the_State_Physical_Therapy_Practice_Act.pdf

Why Advocacy Matters: www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/6.WhyAdvocacyMattersFINAL.pdf

Pathway for Legislative Change:

www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/5.PathwayforLegislativeChangeFINAL.pdf

Animal Physical Therapy - Insurance and Checklist:

www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/1.Animal_Physical_Therapy_Insurance_and_Risk_Checklist.pdf

Target Audience:

Physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, PT students, animal rehab professionals, educators, clinic owners, and those interested in entering or expanding their work in Animal Physical Therapy.

Discover how the Alaska Chapter of APTA is transforming access to care through the first pro bono physical therapy clinic sponsored, managed, and staffed entirely by APTA members.

In this presentation, Leah Einhorn, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, recipient of the 2024 APTA Orthopedics Q3 Innovative Practice Award, shares the development, growth, and impact of the Alaska Physical Therapy Community Clinic—a nonprofit model expanding from Anchorage to Wasilla, Fairbanks, and Homer.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists and PTAs across the U.S., APTA members and state chapter leaders, PT students and academic programs exploring pro bono models, Clinicians interested in volunteer opportunities, Health care administrators focused on access disparities, Individuals involved in nonprofit health service development, Community health organizations and rural health advocates

Join Stephania Bell, PT, OCS Emeritus, CSCS—senior writer and injury analyst for ESPN— as she sits down at AOSSM 2025 with Dr. Kevin Farmer, Professor and Chief of Sports Medicine at the University of Florida and Team Physician for the Florida Gators.

In this conversation, Dr. Farmer breaks down how the transfer portal, NIL, and agent involvement are reshaping athlete management in elite college football. He discusses the challenges of caring for high-value athletes, the complexities of post-operative continuity when players transfer, and the increasing risk landscape clinicians face in the current system.

Physical therapists will gain insight into:

- How transfer portal movement disrupts continuity of care and surgical follow-up

- Why surgeons and PTs must adhere strictly to outside protocols for liability protection

- How NIL deals and financial incentives influence injury reporting, redshirting, and RTP decisions

- The growing role of agents in case management—and how it changes communication workflows

- Practical considerations for managing elite collegiate athletes amid legal, financial, and ethical pressures

Target Audience:

orthopedic physical therapists, sports physical therapists, athletic trainers, sports medicine clinicians, team PTs, outpatient PTs, rehabilitation professionals, PT students, ortho residents, sports performance staff, strength and conditioning coaches

Join Stephania Bell, PT, OCS Emeritus, CSCS—senior writer and injury analyst for ESPN— as she sits down at AOSSM 2025 with Dr. Kathy Coyner, Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at UConn Health, Director of the UConn Women’s Center for Motion and Performance, and Team Physician for UConn Athletics.

In this conversation, Dr. Coyner discusses ACL injury trends in female athletes, communication across multidisciplinary teams, the impact of NIL and external training providers, and evolving surgical considerations—including lateral extra-articular tenodesis—for reducing failure rates.

Physical therapists will gain insight into:

- Navigating return-to-play vs. return-to-performance in high school vs. collegiate athletes

- How psychological readiness shapes RTP timelines and re-injury risk

- Prevention strategies and implementation barriers in youth female athletes

- Surgical factors influencing outcomes in females (hyperlaxity, graft choice, LET)

- How team communication and consistent messaging support better rehab outcomes

Target Audience:

physical therapists, orthopedic physical therapists, sports PTs, PT students, athletic trainers, strength & conditioning coaches, rehab specialists, sports medicine providers, clinic directors, PT educators, biomechanists, basketball medicine staff, youth sports clinicians

Referenced study:

Getgood AMJ, Bryant DM, Litchfield R, et al. Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis Reduces Failure of Hamstring Tendon Autograft Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: 2-Year Outcomes From the STABILITY Study Randomized Clinical Trial. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2020;48(2):285-297. doi:10.1177/0363546519896333

Join Stephania Bell, PT, OCS Emeritus, CSCS, senior writer and injury analyst for ESPN, as she sits down with Dr. James Bradley, Clinical Professor of Orthopedics at UPMC, Head Team Physician for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Past President of AOSSM, at the 2025 AOSSM Annual Meeting in Nashville.

In this episode, Dr. Bradley discusses posterior shoulder instability, the evolution of surgical management, and rehabilitation protocols for elite athletes. He also shares insights on managing athletes during the season and fostering a team-based sports medicine culture.

Physical therapists and orthopedic specialists will gain actionable takeaways on rehab progression, sport-specific adaptations, and collaboration with surgical teams.

Target Audience:

physical therapists, orthopedic physical therapists, sports medicine clinicians, athletic trainers, rehabilitation specialists, PT students, orthopedic residents, team physicians, sports coaches

The Treatment of Posterior Subluxation in Athletes

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8504591/

Join Stephania Bell, PT, OCS Emeritus, CSCS—senior writer and injury analyst for ESPN—as she sits down at AOSSM 2025 with Dr. Jeffrey Dugas, Managing Partner at Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center and Team Physician for Troy University.

In this in-depth conversation, Dr. Dugas breaks down the latest evidence, clinical criteria, and outcomes behind UCL repair with internal brace augmentation, the evolution of Tommy John surgery, and the emerging landscape of hybrid reconstruction techniques.

Physical therapists will gain insight into:

- Differences between UCL repair, reconstruction, and hybrid procedures

- Selection criteria and tissue quality considerations

- Return-to-play data and reoperation trends

- How surgical decision-making affects rehab timelines and expectations

- What current evidence suggests about long-term outcomes in overhead athletes

Target Audience:

physical therapists, orthopedic physical therapists, sports physical therapists, PT students, athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, rehab specialists, baseball rehab clinicians, sports medicine providers, clinic directors, PT educators, biomechanists, performance staff working with overhead athletes

Clinical Outcomes of Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair With Internal Brace Versus Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction in Competitive Athletes: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39891035/

Join Stephania Bell, PT, OCS Emeritus, CSCS, senior writer and injury analyst for ESPN, as she sits down with Heather Milligan, PT, OCS, SCS, founder of Elite OrthoSport Physical Therapy & Performance, to explore the nuances of guiding athletes safely back to sport—from NFL quarterbacks to weekend warriors.

In this episode, Heather shares clinical reasoning, affordable assessment tools, and communication strategies that drive successful outcomes for all patient populations.

You’ll learn:

- Clinical reasoning & progression strategies

- Affordable, objective assessment tools

- Return-to-sport benchmarks

- PT-surgeon communication excellence

- Managing elite vs. everyday athletes

- Case study insights

Whether you treat elite athletes or general orthopedic patients, you’ll gain actionable insights to elevate your practice.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists specializing in orthopedics and sports medicine, PTs treating Achilles injuries (surgical and conservative), Physical therapy students, residents, and new graduates, Athletic trainers and strength & conditioning coaches, Clinicians seeking improved surgeon communication and collaboration, Rehab professionals working with limited budgets and equipment, PTs bridging the gap between general and elite athlete care, Anyone interested in functional progression and return-to-sport decision-making

In this sixth episode of Did You Know?, part of the APTA Orthopedics Podcasts, hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody sit down with Chad E. Cook, PT, PhD, FAPTA — one of the most accomplished and influential researchers in physical therapy.

Dr. Cook is a Tenured Professor at Duke University with appointments in Orthopaedics, Population Health Sciences, and the Duke Clinical Research Institute. He has authored 420+ publications, written 4 textbooks, delivered keynote lectures in 40 countries, and contributed to more than $17 million in external funding. A multi-award-winning educator and researcher, he’s recognized as one of the most productive and respected PT scholars in the field.

In this episode, we explore why so many orthopedic treatments produce similar outcomes — and what truly drives patient recovery.

Key takeaways for physical therapists:

- How to understand recovery trajectories and individualized treatment effects

- Why patient-reported outcomes (PROMIS) matter in clinical decision-making

- The impact of contextual factors and the therapeutic alliance

- How to make evidence-based decisions without over-relying on single studies

- Practical advice for new grads navigating clinical uncertainty

Whether you’re a student, new grad, or experienced clinician, this conversation offers evidence-based, practical insights to sharpen your clinical reasoning and improve how you interpret patient outcomes.

Target Audience:

Physical Therapists, PT Students and New Graduates, Clinicians interested in orthopedics, musculoskeletal care, and evidence-based practice, Researchers and educators in physical therapy

In this episode of APTA Orthopedics Podcasts, host Luciano Garcia, PT, ScD, OCS, COMT, sits down with Jon Beougher, PT, DPT, OCS, a residency-trained physical therapist and National Coordinator of Dry Needling Services at Select Medical, to discuss the clinical application, certification, and future of dry needling in orthopedic physical therapy.

Jon shares insights on:

- What dry needling is and how it goes beyond trigger points

- Current clinical models and evidence supporting dry needling

- State regulations, certification requirements, and safety considerations

- Optimal timing of dry needling within treatment sessions

- How dry needling can enhance patient outcomes and clinical reasoning



Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, PTs interested in advanced interventions like dry needling. Clinicians seeking evidence-based strategies to improve patient outcomes, PT students considering specialization or advanced training

In this episode of APTA Orthopedics Podcasts, host APTA Georgia President Ben Braxley, PT, DPT and guest APTA Virginia President Emily J. Hawkins, PT, DPT, PhD, explore how orthopedic physical therapists can find community, leadership pathways, and professional identity through APTA chapters, sections, and academies.

They discuss:

- How chapter + academy involvement strengthens ortho identity & community

- How to build sustainable volunteer and leadership pipelines

- How evolving member needs — especially across generations — shape engagement

Whether you’re a student, early-career clinician, or seasoned orthopedic PT, this conversation highlights how getting involved locally and nationally can expand your network, sharpen your skill set, and elevate your impact.

Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, orthopedic PT residents, early-career PTs, PT students, military-affiliated PTs, section and academy PT members, PT volunteers, PT leaders, APTA chapter members, OCS-focused clinicians, outpatient orthopedic clinicians

Join APTA Orthopedics for this informative town hall on the Orthopedic PT Toolkit for Temporomandibular Disorders (TMDs), designed to help physical therapists expand their practice and collaborate effectively with dental professionals.

In this session, Dr. Janey Prodoehl, PT, PhD, CCTT, 2024 Q3 Innovative Practice Award Winner, shares her toolkit to support evidence-based, conservative care for patients with TMD, including:

• Strategies for patient education and engagement
• Tools for building PT-dentist collaboration
• Evidence-based conservative care approaches
• Practical tips for assessing and treating jaw pain, muscle dysfunction, and cervical contributions

Whether you’re an orthopedic PT, student, or educator, this town hall offers actionable insights to improve patient outcomes and grow your practice.

Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, PT students, APTA Orthopedics members, Clinicians interested in TMD management, Dental professionals exploring PT collaboration

In this Performing Arts SIG (PASIG) panel, PASIG Vice President of Education Melissa Strzelinski, PT, PhD, moderates a discussion with leading clinicians in performing arts physical therapy:

Michael Costello, PT, DSc, OCS, MTC; Monique DeLuca Watson, DPT, OCS, CMTPT/DN; and Andrew Kunin, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT.

Together, they explore neuropathic pain in dancers and musicians, examining how clinicians can identify, assess, and manage nerve-related conditions within the unique physical demands of performing artists. Topics include:

* Recognizing neuropathic pain presentations in performers

* Clinical reasoning and treatment planning for nerve-related injuries

* Practical education strategies for patient self-management

* Common technical faults and training errors linked to neuropathic issues

* Case discussions from both dance and music populations

This session offers a deep dive into how orthopedic and performing arts clinicians can bridge the gap between neuroscience, performance, and rehabilitation.

Target Audience

Orthopedic physical therapists, performing arts PTs, PT students, dance medicine clinicians, musicians’ health specialists, and anyone treating performers with complex movement and neuropathic pain conditions.

Join us for the second session in our Animal PT Webinar Series, hosted by Sasha Foster, PT, MS (https://sashaafoster.com), President of the Animal PT SIG, with special guests Dr. Carrie Adrian (https://www.canineiq.net). This webinar is sponsored by GO GO Charlie (https://gogocharlie.com).

In this discussion, our panel explores the practical and professional landscape of Animal Physical Therapy, diving into how PTs can expand their impact in the field through clinical reasoning, collaboration, and creative business models. You’ll hear firsthand insights from clinicians working across human and animal practice settings, sharing strategies to build confidence, credibility, and connection in this growing specialty.

What You’ll Learn:

✓ How PTs can integrate animal practice into existing clinical frameworks

✓ Strategies for professional collaboration across disciplines and settings

✓ Practical advice for marketing, networking, and establishing your role in animal rehabilitation

In this episode of APTA Orthopedics Podcasts, host Luciano Garcia, PT, ScD, OCS, COMT and guest Darrin Staloch, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS, FAAOMPT, explore the science, safety, and practical application of blood flow restriction (BFR) training in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation.

They discuss how BFR can enhance strength and hypertrophy, when and how to use it safely, and its growing role across patient populations — from post-surgical athletes to older adults recovering from joint replacement.

Whether you’re curious about the evidence, the right equipment, or clinical pearls from years of hands-on experience, this episode offers insight into integrating BFR into your orthopedic toolkit.

Target Audience:

Orthopedic physical therapists, sports physical therapists, rehab clinicians, physical therapy residents and fellows, and PT students interested in advanced exercise and recovery techniques.

Discover cutting-edge strategies for treating runners with Kate Mihevc Edwards, PT, DPT, OCS, one of APTA Orthopedics’ 2025 1st Quarter Innovative Practice Award winners. In this professional presentation, Kate explains why running injuries are multifactorial and how physical therapists can collaborate with an interdisciplinary team—including sports dietitians, psychologists, and physicians—to optimize runner care.

Topics covered include:

- Multidisciplinary approaches to prevent and treat running injuries

- Addressing biomechanics, strength, mobility, nutrition, sleep, and mental health

- Practical strategies for gait analysis, rehab, and return-to-run programs

- How RunSource, Kate’s innovative app, extends care beyond the clinic

Learn more about our Innovative Practice Award winners here: https://www.orthopt.org/content/s/innovative-practice-award-winners

Target Audience:

Physical Therapists, Sports and Orthopedic PTs, Athletic Trainers and Rehab Professionals, PT Students and Residents interested in sports medicine or running medicine, Clinicians exploring interdisciplinary approaches

Join us for the first session in our Animal PT Webinar Series, hosted by Sasha Foster, PT, MS (https://sashaafoster.com), President of the Animal PT SIG, with special guests Amie Hesbach, PT, DPT, MS (https://www.empowerphysiopt.com/about) and Kirk Peck, PT, PhD, CSCS, CCRT (https://www.creighton.edu/campus-directory/peck-kirk-m). This video is sponsored by CanineIQ (https://www.canineiq.net). In this conversation, you’ll dive deeper into the world of Animal Physical Therapy, focusing on collaboration, skill-sharing, and building professional bridges between PTs and veterinarians.

What You’ll Learn:

✓ How PT skill sets complement veterinary expertise

✓ Real-world stories from labs and clinics highlighting collaboration

✓ Tips for PTs entering the animal health space and creating partnerships

Check Out Our Sponsor CanineIQ: https://www.canineiq.net/

Join the APTSIG: https://www.orthopt.org/content/special-interest-groups/animal-physical-therapy

Join the APTSIG Community: https://aopt.connectedcommunity.org/home

Join host Meghan Homoky, PT, DPT, OCS, ATC, as she sits down with Victoria Kochick, PT, DPT, NCS, AVPT, to discuss the Exit Test and essential pearls for return-to-sport (RTS) testing post-concussion. In this episode, they dive into:

- What the Exit Test is and why it’s crucial for safe RTS

- Bridging the gap between asymptomatic athletes and full game readiness

- Cardiovascular and dynamic components of the Exit Test

- How to identify exertion intolerance, vestibular sensitivities, and deconditioning

- Clinical insights on using the Exit Test for high school, college, and professional athletes

- Future directions for widespread validation and utilization

Whether you’re a physical therapist, athletic trainer, or sports medicine professional, this episode will equip you with practical strategies to enhance concussion clearance and ensure athlete safety.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, PT students, sports medicine clinicians, concussion specialists, outpatient rehab clinicians, athletic trainers, VA/military rehab professionals

Dr. Norman L. Johnson, PT, DPT, DEd, MSS, MBA, LMT, received the APTA Orthopedics Innovative Practice Award (Q4 2024) for creating the Mobility Assessment and Treatment Device, an innovative falls screening and gait assessment tool that combines the Four Square Step Test, Timed Up and Go Test, and Figure-of-8 Walk Test.

This innovation improves fall risk screening, supports therapeutic activities, and advances patient safety while reducing setup time in clinical practice.

Learn more about the Innovative Practice Awards: https://www.orthopt.org/content/s/innovative-practice-award-winners

Target Audience:

Physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, PT students, clinicians working in geriatrics, home health PTs, VA/military rehab professionals, outpatient rehab clinicians, rehabilitation educators, healthcare policymakers, aging and fall-prevention advocates

Join Stephania Bell, PT, OCS, CSCS, senior writer and injury analyst for ESPN, as she sits down with Caitlin McGee, MS, PT, DPT, a leader in esports medicine. Together, they dive into the world of competitive gaming and show how PTs can prevent injuries, improve performance, and make a real impact on esports athletes.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• Common injuries affecting competitive gamers—and how to treat them

• Why esports medicine is an emerging field every PT should know about

• Multidisciplinary approaches that enhance performance and reduce injury risk

• How to get involved in esports medicine as a PT

• Insights from Dr. McGee’s research and textbook contributions

Whether you’re a student, early-career clinician, or seasoned PT, this episode gives you actionable strategies and expert advice to stay ahead in a growing niche of physical therapy.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists (students, early career, and experienced clinicians), Rehab professionals interested in niche practice areas, Sports medicine clinicians exploring emerging populations, PT educators and program directors

In the fifth episode of Did You Know?, part of the APTA Orthopedics Podcasts, hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody chat with Dan Mills about prescriptive authority in physical therapy—what it means, why it matters, and how it could reshape the profession.

From the origins of the APTA task force to international perspectives, military examples, and state-level challenges, this episode explores how prescriptive authority could expand access, improve efficiency, and strengthen PT practice.

Target Audience:

physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, PT students, academic faculty, PT leaders, APTA members, healthcare policy advocates, rehab professionals

Join Bob Hall and PT leader Marcia Spoto, PT, MS, as they break down value-based care in physical therapy. In this episode, Marcia explains:

- What value-based care really means

- How it differs from traditional fee-for-service models

- Why patient outcomes and satisfaction are key metrics

- Opportunities for PTs in both private practice and hospital systems

- How data and documentation can boost referrals, revenue, and clinic success

Whether you’re curious about improving patient care, navigating new payment models, or positioning yourself as a problem solver in healthcare, this episode gives a clear, practical guide to value-based care and its impact on the PT profession.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists (PTs) in private practice, hospital, or outpatient settings, PT leaders and clinic managers, PT students interested in healthcare trends, Professionals looking to understand value-based care and payment models in healthcare, Anyone in orthopedics or musculoskeletal rehab interested in improving patient outcomes and clinic efficiency

Are you an orthopedic clinician considering a terminal degree? In this episode of the APTA Orthopedics Podcast, host Luciano Garcia sits down with Sharon Wang Price, PT, PhD, COMT, FAAOMPT, and Phil Sizer, PT, PhD, FAAOMPT, to explore the differences between the ScD and PhD programs.

Learn which degree might be the best fit for your career goals in research, education, or clinical leadership. They also discuss program length, hybrid options, and tips for balancing work, life, and advanced education.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists, orthopedic clinicians, DPT graduates considering advanced degrees, Clinicians interested in research or academic careers, PTs exploring career growth and leadership opportunities, Current or prospective students looking at SCD or PhD programs in rehabilitation sciences

Get an inside look at your newest APTA Orthopedics member benefit! In this Town Hall recording, we walk you through our collaboration with PhysioU, giving you streamlined access to Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) content and interactive tools designed to enhance learning and improve patient care.

You’ll see the platform in action, learn how to apply CPGs at the point of care, and hear directly from leaders about how this resource can help reduce unwanted practice variation while boosting your confidence in clinical decision-making.

Target Audience:

orthopedic physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, PT students, APTA Orthopedics members, clinicians using CPGs, continuing education learners, evidence-based practice advocates

On this episode of Pain Cast presented by the Pain SIG of APTA Orthopedics, host Eric Kruger explores integrating the ICF model into pain education and clinical reasoning for physical therapists. Learn practical strategies to help DPT students synthesize biological, psychological, and social factors in patient care, improve clinical reasoning, and link assessment to intervention in complex and chronic pain cases.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists, DPT students, PT educators, clinicians interested in pain management, musculoskeletal specialists, neurorehabilitation therapists

Join us for an eye-opening Imaging SIG webinar with Drs. Dallas Ehrmantraut and Bremen Abuhl, University of Jamestown faculty and driving forces behind North Dakota’s recent victory for full MSK imaging referral privileges.

Fresh from their Editor’s Choice publication in Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Journal, these researchers share a landmark meta-analysis showing physical therapists as first-contact providers achieve less imaging, fewer medications, and same or better outcomes compared to other providers.

Read Now: https://academic.oup.com/ptj/article/105/8/pzaf080/8161542

We’ll dive into what the data means for the profession, how it strengthens the case for PTs in primary care, and what’s next for advancing scope and autonomy across the country.

Bring your questions, your perspectives, and your curiosity — this is a conversation that could shape the future of physical therapy.

Join the Imaging SIG: https://www.orthopt.org/content/special-interest-groups/imaging

Target Audience:

physical therapists, PTAs, orthopedic PTs, sports PTs, primary care PTs, outpatient PTs, imaging specialists, rehab clinicians, DPT students, academic faculty, policy advocates

What’s in the proposed 2026 Physician Fee Schedule and why should physical therapists care?

In this video, Bob Hall breaks down five key issues in the CMS proposed rule, including:

- Physician referrals as plan of care certification

- Site-of-service payment differences

- Permanent virtual direct supervision (telehealth)

- Conversion factor updates

- Revisions to practice expense methodology

These changes could significantly reduce administrative burden, improve access to care, especially in rural areas, and reshape how PT services are paid. Learn how these proposals affect you and how you can advocate for finalizing the policies that support our profession and patients.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists (especially in private practice or rural settings), PTAs and clinic managers, Healthcare administrators in outpatient and hospital settings, APTA members interested in advocacy and Medicare policy, Students preparing for a career in physical therapy

In the fourth episode of Did You Know?, part of the APTA Orthopedics Podcasts, hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody chat with Susan Appling about the power of professional involvement in physical therapy.

Susan reflects on her leadership journey, offers advice for getting started, and shares how participating in advocacy and organizational service can inspire growth—not just for the profession, but for the individual clinician.

Whether you’re early in your career or looking to give back, this conversation explores how volunteering and stepping into leadership roles can transform your perspective, expand your impact, and shape the future of physical therapy.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists at all career stages, PTs interested in leadership, advocacy, and service, DPT students, and early professionals exploring professional engagement

Dr. Norman Johnson, recipient of the 2024 APTA Orthopedics Innovative Practice Award, presents his groundbreaking approach to fall risk screening through the development of a functional and multidirectional reach assessment device. In this presentation, Dr. Johnson walks through the history of reach testing, its clinical limitations, and how his device provides a dynamic, reproducible, and inclusive way to assess and treat patients of all ages—especially older adults and veterans.

This presentation is part of our Innovative Practice Award series, highlighting creative and practical ideas that are moving orthopedic physical therapy forward.

View All Innovative Award Recipients: https://www.orthopt.org/content/s/innovative-practice-award-winners

Target Audience:

Physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, PT students, clinicians working in geriatrics, home health PTs, VA/military rehab professionals, outpatient rehab clinicians

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists! In this case scenario, Paul-Neil Czujko walks you through a complex cervical spine presentation involving a 50-year-old male with insidious neck pain, radiating symptoms, and new onset red flags following cervical manipulation. You'll explore clinical reasoning, differential diagnosis, key examination findings, and evidence-based intervention strategies. Learn how to confidently navigate neck pain presentations and sharpen your OCS prep with this detailed analysis rooted in clinical practice guidelines.

Check out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenarios

Read the full cervical spine case scenario: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenarios/cervical-spine2

Target Audience (with commas):

physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, orthopedic physical therapy educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam, evidence-based practitioners

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists! In this lumbar spine case scenario, Paul-Neil Czujko walks through the evaluation of a 32-year-old female presenting with insidious low back pain, radicular symptoms, and functional limitations. Follow along as he explores differential diagnosis, identifies clinical patterns, and discusses evidence-based management aligned with clinical practice guidelines. This scenario is ideal for sharpening your lumbar spine reasoning and preparing for the OCS exam.

Check out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenarios

Read the full cervical spine case scenario: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenarios/cervical-spine2

Target Audience:

physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, orthopedic physical therapy educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Big News in Physical Therapy Advocacy!

After nearly a decade of persistent advocacy, Aetna has dropped its outdated referral requirement, paving the way for greater direct access to physical therapy for over 36 million people. In this video, Bob Hall breaks down what this major win means for patients, providers, and the future of access to care. This win is a clear sign that persistence in advocacy pays off.

Target Audience:

Physical Therapists (PTs & PTAs), DPT students and new grads, Healthcare policy advocates, APTA members, Private practice owners and outpatient clinicians, Medicare/insurance navigators in healthcare settings

In this episode of APTA Orthopedics Podcasts, host Dhinu J. Jayaseelan is joined by John Heick to explore the evolving role of physical therapists in the primary care setting. They unpack the differences between direct access and primary care PT, discuss the historical roots of the model in military and emergency care, and examine the clinical and policy shifts that are shaping the future of musculoskeletal care. Dr. Heick shares insights from his career in orthopedics, neuro, sports, and academia, emphasizing mentorship, residency, and technology as key drivers in preparing PTs for expanded roles. Whether you're in a rural clinic, urban outpatient setting, or seeking to broaden your scope, this conversation sheds light on why primary care PT is gaining momentum—and how PTs can lead in filling critical healthcare gaps.

Target Audience:

Physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, students, educators, clinical specialists, residency directors, policy advocates

Watch the presentation on APTA Orthopedics YouTube!

Performing arts students face unique physical and sensory demands that are not adequately addressed in traditional concussion recovery protocols. In one of our innovative practice award winners presentation, Kristen Schuyten, Paola Savvidou, and Allyssa Memmini share their innovative development of the Progressive Return-to-Performance Protocol. This interdisciplinary effort fills a critical void in post-concussion management for dancers, musicians, and theater students at the university level. The presentation explores mechanisms of injury in the performing arts, limitations of current return-to-learn and return-to-sport models, and the Delphi-based development of a stage-based protocol tailored to the performing arts. Learn how this framework supports collaboration between medical and academic teams and explore next steps for implementation in clinical and educational settings.

Learn more about this award-winning concussion protocol: https://www.orthopt.org/content/s/innovative-practice-award-winners

Target Audience:

Orthopaedic physical therapists, sports physical therapists, athletic trainers, academic faculty, student health providers, neuro PTs, clinicians treating concussion, performing arts medicine specialists, university healthcare professionals

In the third episode of Did You Know?, part of the APTA Orthopedics Podcasts, hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody chat with Francois Desmeules and Lori Michener about the brand new 2025 Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) for rotator cuff tendinopathy.

They explore what’s changed since the 2022 CPG, why a new version was needed so soon, and how international collaboration helped shape more patient-centered, evidence-informed recommendations.

From updated grading scales to return-to-sport criteria and patient-reported outcome measures, this episode helps you apply the new CPG to make more confident, effective decisions in shoulder rehab.

Perfect for practicing physical therapists looking to stay current and optimize outcomes.

Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy Diagnosis, Nonsurgical Medical Care, and Rehabilitation: A Clinical Practice Guideline: https://www.jospt.org/doi/10.2519/jospt.2025.13182



Target Audience:

orthopedic physical therapists, physical therapy students, clinical educators, sports PTs, musculoskeletal clinicians, researchers in PT, PT faculty, international PT professionals

In this episode of APTA Orthopedics Podcasts, host James Spencer is joined by Dr. Janey Prodoehl, PT, PhD, CCTT, recipient of the 2024 Innovative Practice Award, for an insightful conversation on advancing physical therapy care for individuals with Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD). Dr. Prodoehl shares evidence-based strategies from her work developing a national clinical practice guideline, including how to simplify TMD screening and treatment, build interdisciplinary referral networks, and demystify care for both PTs and patients. She also highlights opportunities for outreach to dental and primary care providers and emphasizes empowering physical therapists with practical tools—not fear.

Target Audience:

Orthopedic Physical Therapists, PTs with an interest in TMD, TMJ, or craniofacial care, Early-career PTs, DPT students, Clinic Owners/Managers, Dentists and Dental Specialists, Primary Care Physicians, Healthcare Administrators, Pain Researchers, Academics.

In this episode of APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, host Luciano Garcia and guest Paul Mintken explore how mindfulness can enhance clinical practice, reduce chronic pain, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen the therapeutic alliance. Paul shares practical techniques for both clinicians and patients—including strategies you can use today to be more present, connected, and effective. Whether you're new to mindfulness or looking to deepen your practice, this episode is packed with insight for orthopaedic PTs.

Target Audience:

physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, orthopaedic PTs, clinicians, mindfulness in healthcare, chronic pain management, therapeutic alliance, patient care strategies, PT burnout, empathy in PT, mindful practice

In this episode of APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, host Luciano Garcia and guest Dr. Kelli Wilson, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, discuss how orthopaedic clinicians can start integrating pelvic health concepts into practice—without needing to perform internal exams.

Dr. Wilson shares practical tips for assessing breath, posture, the abdominal wall, and external pelvic floor coordination. She also talks about how constipation and fascial restrictions can relate to low back pain and why these areas deserve more attention in entry-level education.

For clinicians who want to learn more, she recommends several go-to resources:

- Alhooie Education

- APTA Pelvic Health Section

- Herman & Wallace

- MyPFM

- Global Pelvic Health Alliance

She emphasizes staying clinically grounded and offers mentorship opportunities for those ready to go deeper.

Target Audience:

Orthopaedic physical therapists, pelvic health-curious clinicians, DPT students, residency/fellowship-trained PTs, early-career PTs, educators in physical therapy, and clinicians looking to expand into holistic or whole-body assessment approaches.

In this episode of APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, host Luciano Garcia is joined by Dr. Melissa Hoffman to explore inclusive care in orthopaedic physical therapy—focusing on affirming, evidence-based practices for LGBTQIA+ patients. Dr. Hoffman shares insights from their research, clinical work, and advocacy—highlighting the importance of inclusive data collection, cultural humility, and practical tools to better support this population.

Target Audience: Licensed Physical Therapists (Orthopaedic and General), Physical Therapist Assistants, DPT Students, Physical Therapy Educators & Researchers, PT clinic owners and practice managers, Members of APTA and related academies/SIGs

In this episode of APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, host Jimmy McKay sits down with Meghan Homoky from the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) to break down the evolving science and clinical realities of concussion management. From clinical profiles and active recovery strategies to controversial topics like neck strengthening and return-to-play decisions, Meghan brings clarity, passion, and practical advice for PTs on the front lines.

Hear how early intervention, targeted rehab, and a PT-first approach can make all the difference—for athletes at every level.

Target Audience: Physical therapists, DPT students and residents, Athletic trainers, Concussion specialists, Youth and pro sports coaches, Parents of young athletes, Healthcare professionals interested in concussion management

What happens when mentorship is more than a buzzword? In this powerful kickoff episode of The Mentorship, a part of the APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, host Matthew Haley explores how structured mentorship can shape physical therapy careers, fight burnout, and elevate patient outcomes. Drawing from personal stories and professional insights, Matthew shares how lifelong learning and leadership go hand in hand—and how you can implement sustainable mentorship in your own clinic. Whether you’re a seasoned PT, a new grad, or someone passionate about growth, this episode will inspire you to lead, learn, and elevate the profession.

Target Audience: Early-career and new graduate physical therapists, Clinic directors and practice owners, PT educators and mentors, Physical therapy students, Healthcare professionals interested in leadership development

This engaging town hall discussion explores the APTA Orthopaedic community forums for PTAs and PTA students and the potential to foster stronger PT/PTA collaboration through educational content. Participants highlighted the need for more robust interprofessional training, proposed video interviews showcasing successful PT/PTA team dynamics, and suggested board prep resources for students and early-career professionals. This session underscores the importance of communication, shared learning, and inclusive community-building within the profession.

Target Audience: PTA students, PT students (DPT programs), Practicing PTAs and PTs, Clinical educators and academic faculty, APTA Orthopaedic members, New professionals preparing for licensure

**Watch this presentation on APTA Orthopaedics' YouTube**

In this Occupational Health Presentation, Rick Wickstrom explores the value of Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs) in facilitating return-to-work outcomes. Rick shares insights on integrating job-specific testing into the rehabilitation process, emphasizing the importance of on-site evaluations and collaborating with employers. Learn how physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) can improve patient outcomes by bridging the gap between medical restrictions and functional abilities in the workplace. This session covers strategies for effective communication with employers and methods for enhancing job demands clarity.

Target Audience: Physical Therapists (PTs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), Workers’ Compensation Specialists, Rehabilitation Professionals, Occupational Health Providers, Worksite Rehabilitation Specialists, Healthcare Practitioners