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An ACL tear doesn’t automatically mean surgery, and not every ACL-deficient athlete is the same. In this episode, I’m joined by Kellie Loehr, ATC, who shares her personal journey of tearing her ACL and choosing non-operative management, alongside physical therapist Samantha King, PT, to break down what it really means to be a “coper.” 

We discuss how clinicians identify potential copers, the role of strength and neuromuscular control, psychological readiness, and how to determine who may successfully return to sport without reconstruction. This episode challenges the all-or-nothing narrative around ACL tears and emphasizes individualized decision-making and high-quality rehab.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In this episode, I’m joined by orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Dreese to explore the additional injuries that can accompany an ACL tear, including MCL, LCL and posterolateral corner injuries, PCL involvement, meniscus repair versus meniscectomy, and cartilage damage. 

We discuss how these associated findings influence surgical decisions, rehab precautions, and long-term outcomes. If you’ve ever had two ACL patients who progressed very differently, this conversation explains why it’s rarely “just an ACL.”

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In recognition of Occupational Therapy Month, this episode highlights the vital role occupational therapists play in helping patients regain independence and return to the activities that matter most in their daily lives. I’m joined by occupational therapists Mike Duffy and Carly Bland to discuss the scope of occupational therapy, the types of conditions OTs commonly treat, and how they collaborate with other members of the rehab team to support patient recovery. Carly also shares insight into her role as a Certified Hand Therapist and what it takes to specialize in treating complex hand and upper extremity injuries. This conversation offers a closer look at the impact occupational therapy has throughout the rehabilitation journey and why the profession is such an essential part of patient care.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Today, we sit down with Dr. Kovacs, primary care sports physician, to explore the fascinating world of golf injuries. Dr. Kovacs delves into the unique challenges that golfers face, from repetitive strain injuries to acute conditions, and explains why golf is a distinct and special sport. He also emphasizes the importance of a team approach in treating patients and athletes, highlighting how collaboration between healthcare professionals, coaches, and athletic trainers can optimize recovery and performance. Whether you're a PT who treats golfers, a seasoned golfer yourself, or new to the sport, this episode offers valuable insights into staying healthy on the green. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Join us for an enlightening episode as we sit down with sports physical therapist Erin Connor to discuss the intricacies of hip rehabilitation. Erin covers conservative and surgical management options, offering valuable insights on non-surgical treatments and post-surgical rehabilitation strategies. 

Learn about the specific challenges and solutions in rehabbing athletes with hip injuries and get practical tips for optimizing recovery and safely returning to play. Whether you're an athlete, a coach, or someone interested in physical therapy, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge to enhance your understanding of hip injury management.  

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Dr. Tepper to discuss the intricacies of hip labral tears. Dr. Tepper explains how both patients and athletes commonly sustain these injuries, we explore the differential diagnosis of potential hip injuries, and he provides a detailed overview of hip labral repair surgery.  

We delve into the expectations for recovery post-op and examine how the treatment of these injuries has evolved over time. Join us for an in-depth conversation that offers valuable insights for anyone dealing with or interested in hip health. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Join us in this insightful episode as we sit down with Drs. Hampton and Henn, renowned experts in orthopedics, to discuss the intricacies of climbing injuries. Whether you're a seasoned climber or just starting out, understanding the common injuries and their treatments is crucial to maintaining your health and performance. It’s also insightful to hear as a treating clinician what we may expect to see in our clinics when a climber comes in with an injury. 

In this episode, we delve into neck, shoulder, elbow, hand and finger injuries identifying anatomy, common issues, as well as effective treatment strategies for climbing injuries. 

Dr. Hamm and Dr. Hampton share their wealth of knowledge, offering practical advice and evidence-based treatments to help you stay injury-free and climb stronger.  

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In this episode, we sit down with a Physical Therapist and an Occupational Therapist to discuss common climbing injuries and their impact on clients and athletes. We'll explore the most prevalent injuries climbers face and dive into effective treatment strategies used in clinics to help these athletes recover and get back to the wall. Join us for an insightful conversation on injury prevention, rehabilitation, and the unique challenges of treating climbers.

Congrats to Kaylie on earning her OCS last month!!!

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In this episode, we dive into the world of rock-climbing medicine with Dr. Masquelin, a passionate climber and experienced sports physician. Dr. Masquelin shares her unique insights from both her personal climbing adventures and her extensive experience covering numerous climbing competitions.  

We explore the different styles of climbing and discuss the most common acute and lower extremity injuries climbers face. Tune in to learn how to stay safe and healthy on the rock, directly from an expert who truly understands the sport. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Today we welcome orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Mitchell, who discusses the devastating impact of ACL injuries. Discover who is most at risk and the physical and emotional challenges these patients face. Dr. Mitchell also shares the latest treatment advancements and techniques used to help patients recover and return to their activities. 

We delve into the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to ACL injury treatment, highlighting the roles of physical therapists, athletic trainers, and other healthcare professionals in creating an effective treatment plan. Whether you're an athlete, healthcare professional, or just curious, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of ACL injuries and recovery. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Join us as we talk with Dr. Hinton, an expert in pediatric ACL injuries. In this episode, we explore the rising injury risks in youth sports, the intricacies of pediatric ACL surgery, and the critical role of physical therapy in recovery. Dr. Hinton shares essential advice for parents, coaches, and young athletes on reducing risk of injuries and ensuring a successful return to sports for the youth athlete. 

Discover the challenges young athletes face today, the specifics of pediatric ACL surgery, and post-op recovery strategies that are crucial for a safe comeback. Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help protect and support young sports enthusiasts. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In this episode, we sit down with a seasoned sports physical therapist to delve into the intricacies of ACL rehabilitation. We'll uncover the top ten essential tips for effectively working with patients and athletes post-ACL surgery, ensuring a successful recovery and optimal performance.  

Stay tuned for bonus tips that provide additional insights and strategies for navigating the rehab journey with confidence and expertise. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In this episode, Dr. Douoguih dives deep into the world of osteotomies, with a particular focus on high tibial opening wedge osteotomies. Dr. Douoguih shares his personal journey into the field and how he developed a passion for this specialized surgical procedure. Listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of how high tibial opening wedge osteotomies are performed, including the step-by-step process and the critical considerations surgeons must take into account. 

Dr. Douoguih also discusses the ideal candidates for this surgery, explaining the criteria that make someone a suitable candidate and the potential benefits they can expect. Additionally, he provides insights into the future of osteotomies, highlighting the advancements in technology and techniques that are poised to improve patient outcomes. 

Whether you're a medical professional, a student, or someone curious about orthopedic surgery, this episode offers valuable insights into the complexities and innovations of high tibial opening wedge osteotomies. Tune in to learn more about this fascinating procedure and Dr. Douoguih's expert perspective. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In honor of National Athletic Training Month, we’re highlighting the voices shaping the future of the profession. On this episode, I’m joined by Mary Nadelen, Clinical Associate Professor of Kinesiology and Clinical Education Coordinator for Athletic Training at Towson University in Maryland. 

Mary gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to educate and mentor the next generation of athletic trainers. We discuss the evolution of athletic training education, the importance of clinical experiences, the challenges students face entering the profession, and the incredible impact athletic trainers have across healthcare and sport. 

Whether you’re a clinician, educator, or student, this conversation shines a light on the people preparing tomorrow’s athletic trainers.

To learn more about Towson University's ATC program, check out: https://www.towson.edu/chp/departments/kinesiology/athletic-training/

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In this episode, we delve into the critical role of inpatient physical therapy for patients post total/uni knee replacements. We explore the evaluation process and exercises that ensure patients are safe and ready to return home. 

We also discuss the criteria that determine whether a patient can go home the same day as their surgery or if an overnight stay is necessary, shedding light on the factors that influence these decisions. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Today we continue with our mini series on Joint Replacements, specifically the knee. Kicking it off with us is PT George Poscover to discuss the ins and and outs of rehabilitation following a knee replacement. 

George has a unique role in this in that he treats patients in prehab, in the PACU immediately post op, then in the outpatient setting ultimately helping patients return to their goals. 

George walks us through the process of hearing the news of needing a knee replacement, all the way to following up years later and hearing about continued improvements made outside of PT.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Today we begin our mini series on Knee Replacements!

In this episode, we sit down with an experienced orthopedic surgeon to discuss total and unilateral knee replacements. From candidacy criteria to post-operative expectations and follow-up protocols, we uncover the intricacies of these procedures.  

Learn about the surgical techniques involved and how seamless communication between physical therapists and physicians ensures optimal patient recovery and well-being. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Join us on Speech Language Pathologist Appreciation Day (it’s actually May 18th, but we’re celebrating with our SLPs early!) as we delve into the world of SLPs. 

Discover what Speech Language Pathologists do, the wide range of patients they help—from infants to the elderly—and the diverse settings where they work, including hospitals, schools, and outpatient clinics. 

 Learn who refers individuals to SLPs and the collaborative efforts between SLPs and physical therapists to provide comprehensive care. Join us in celebrating the vital contributions of SLPs in enhancing communication and improving lives! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Join us for this awesome episode as we dive into the topic of Mental Health in support of May being Mental Health Awareness Month!!!  

We start with defining what “mental health” means, how as health care practitioners and care givers this can impact our mental health, as well as discussing resilience and burnout. 

We emphasize the importance of prioritizing mental health, supporting our team members, and end the episode with our top tip for helping to improve our own mental health from a clinician’s perspective. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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April is OT Month, and while it may be the last week of April, it doesn’t lessen our appreciation for all occupational therapists! 

Today, we’ve got one of our very own OTs, Dave Federline. Dave does an amazing job sharing about the profession of OT and all the various settings OTs practice in. Dave is clearly passionate about his work and explores the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach to patient care. 

Thank you to all the OTS in this world helping patients gain independence and live a fulfilling life. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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MedStar Health has been medically volunteering at the Boston Marathon for a handful of years now. This year was no different, as we brought up a team full of MDs, PTs, and ATCs. 

On today’s podcast, we’re joined by an MD, 2 PTs, and an ATC to go over the 2024 Boston Marathon and the capacity with which our team helped the runners in the medical tents. 

If you’ve ever been curious about a PT or ATCs role on race day, tune in to this one!!! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Jason tells us all about the Center of Sports Science and Safety, the current research being conducted towards the mission and values of USA Lacrosse, and lastly about Lacrosse in the Olympics and metrics being explored to help athletes perform in this sport to the best of the ability. 

We get to dip our toes into the myriad of areas the Center of Sports Science and Safety covers with the goal of safety in sport and optimizing the performance of lacrosse athletes across the world. 

 Center for Sport Science & Safety: https://www.usalacrosse.com/center-sports-science-safety 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Low back pain is a common condition experienced by lacrosse athletes of all levels. Today, Dr. Kalantar, professor and chief of the Division of Spine Surgery in the Department of Orthopedics at the Georgetown University School of Medicine and the MedStar Orthopedic Institute, teaches us all about low back pain in athletes including pars stress fractures, spondylolisthesis, and general low back pain. 

Dr. Kalantar shares with us the general course of treatment for an athlete with low back pain and the spectrum that exists given the intensity or severity of the condition. 

Are you a PT who treats lacrosse athletes or a lacrosse athlete yourself who is experiencing low back pain? Tune into this episode to learn more about it with an expert surgeon. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Jay has been a prominent name in the Lacrosse world for many, many years. We’re happy to host him on our podcast to gain the perspective from a strength and conditioning coach on how to best train lacrosse athletes, and truly any athlete, which we dive into in the episode. 

Jay shares his insight on the importance of relationship building, and tools he uses to build relationships with athletes to help them in the weight room and ultimately translates that into being a strong athlete on the field and in life. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In this special Athletic Training Month episode, I’m joined by Emily Michaelis, ATC, and Allison Gardiner, ATC to spotlight the vital role athletic trainers play in injury prevention, on-field care, and return-to-play. We break down common misconceptions, discuss collaboration within the sports medicine team, and share what makes this profession so impactful. A must-listen conversation celebrating the heart and skill behind athletic training. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Dr. Hinton covers a vast array of information on this podcast ranging from current healthcare challenges youth athletes are facing, all the way to specifics about helping treat ACL injuries in the pediatric population. 

Dr. Hinton takes us on the evolution of injuries common in men’s and women’s lacrosse games, and how they differ depending on the type of lacrosse game being played. 

Dr. Hinton shares with us his vision of where healthcare is going, and needs to go, and we’ll have to bring him back for round two to dive deeper into these various topics. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Kellie Loehr, ATC, works in a unique role with MedStar Health and USA Lacrosse. Kellie takes us on the journey of what it takes to work your way up to covering professional sports teams, and the importance of building connections and trust locally with schools, athletes, and other healthcare providers. 

Kellie shares the background view of what it takes to provide coverage for lacrosse to ensure safety for all athletes. She shares how she put the work in and her perspective on what it takes to succeed as an athletic trainer in this capacity. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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We’re grateful to host Physical Therapist, Corrine Etchison, on our podcast to kick of four Lacrosse Medicine series, especially because she played Division One lacrosse at Georgetown University. 

Corrine jumps into common injuries she sees in her lacrosse athletes, and how she helps her athletes navigate a longer recovery from injuries from the physical and mental side. 

Corrine also shares with us her amazing experience in working with the women’s Athlete Unlimited athletes, and some behind the scenes tidbits on how she and the team help keep the athletes as healthy as possible during those long, grueling weeks. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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We’ve got FOUR physical therapists on the podcast today to recap their experiences on the APTA CSM 2024 conference that was held a couple weeks ago in Boston. 

Aurora, Jessie, Miriam and Becca share with you what they loved, what they’d changed, and what they learned during their time at CSM. 

If you went, what was your favorite part? We’d love to hear. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Dr. Grant teaches us the differentiation between cardiology and sports cardiology. He describes the types of patients he sees from ones with a cardiac history all the way to the other end of the spectrum for sports performance purposes, and everything in between.  

Dr. Grant educates us on the normal differences and adaptations in the heart secondary to sport and when concerns may arise in the athletic population. Dr. Grant not only covers the testing side of sports cardiology, but the mental impact a cardiac event can have and how he supports his patients through their journey of recovery back to sport. 

We have a brief discussion on how we may be able to utilize a sports cardiologist to help our athletes aerobically and anaerobically be successful when returning to sport after an orthopedic surgical recovery to optimize a safe return to sport and training. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Lauren Davis, OT, teaches us all about the rehabilitation side when a patient is status post a Total Shoulder Replacement. We discuss the importance of prehab, building rapport with your patients and communicating effectively with the referring physician. 
 
She takes us on the journey all the way from Prehab to Returning to Work/Sport activities and all the ins and outs in between. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about Total Shoulder Replacements and Reverse Total Shoulder Replacements, this episode is for you! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Dr. Murthi teaches us all about Total Shoulder Replacements/Arthroplasties and Reverse Total Shoulder Replacements. We learn who is a candidate for each, and what goes into the planning process for these surgeries all the way down to the material used in the components and sizing. 

Dr. Murthi discusses managing patient expectations for having this surgery, and the importance of communication between him or any surgeon and the PT or OT treating these patients. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Dr. Wiesel joins us today to discuss conservative and surgical management of patients experiencing shoulder instability. He describes the spectrum of instability from your genetically lax patient to the one off dislocations. 

Dr. Wiesel describes a menu of surgical options on the table for individuals who fail conservative management and revisions and shares the art of tightening a loose shoulder. 

Dr. Wiesel also talks about his opinions on post op protocols and how to best connect with PTs to ensure the best outcomes for his patients post op. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Kelsey is a dual credentialed clinician, PT and ATC, who often treats patients and athletes with shoulder instability. We dive into how someone may present to PT with this issue, and how we evaluate these patients to create an appropriate plan of care. 

Kelsey takes us through the progression of treatment of someone with shoulder instability be it treated conservatively or post op. Finally, she tackles what goes into returning to sport following this sort of injury or condition and the importance of treating the whole person and athlete to safely return them to their activities. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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We’re joined by Director of Clinical Operations at Ekso Bionics, Michael Glover, and end user, Vicky Garrison on the podcast today to learn all about the Ekso Indego device and its ability to transform the life of someone with a SCI below T3. 

This device is incredibly impactful to allow indicated patients with SCI the ability to regain some independence and improve one’s quality of life by being able to stand and walk again. 

 Vicky shares personal stories of how the device has transformed her life in her short period of time using the device so far. Mike tells us all about the specs, uses, and how it not only allows patients to walk again, but all the secondary benefits it has on one’s life and health. 

Becca forgot to ask Mike and Vicky their favorite quotes at the end, so we're dropping them here for you:
Mike: “Speak less, Listen more. React less, Observe more.”
Vicky:  "Life is too short to be anything but positive."

Resources: 

https://eksobionics.com 

@Eksobionics 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Think you know PT? Think again! In this episode, physical therapist Chris Parker takes on some of the biggest myths in physical therapy—from “bone-on-bone knees shouldn’t squat” to “pain always equals damage” to “I need an MRI before starting PT.” We dive into why these misconceptions persist, how they affect patient movement and confidence, and most importantly, how PTs can educate and empower patients with clear, science-backed guidance. Get ready for a fun, eye-opening conversation that will challenge what you thought you knew about PT! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Cristen Gordon does an eloquent job verbalizing the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to treating patients with neurological conditions. She tells us all her favorite parts of working with this patient population, but also the challenges she faces and tools she uses to overcome these obstacles. 

If you’re a PT student or newer grad interested in treating neuro patients, check out this episode and hear Cristen’s passion come through in her stories. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Maria enthusiastically teaches us about the Stress First Aid continuum and how to best utilize it to optimize our wellbeing in the workplace. She describes the green, yellow, orange, red system and ways to implement this strategy in our clinics. 

Maria also goes into a new way to look at burnout and how we can best advocate for ourselves and our wellbeing to reduce our risk of getting to that point. 

To be the best clinician we can be, we must take care of ourselves first. Hopefully the Stress First Aid Tool can be useful for you to prioritize wellbeing and be more effective in how we show up to the workplace. 

Resources:
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/treat/type/stress_first_aid.asp

https://www.medstarhealth.org/for-healthcare-professionals/physician-well-being-programs-and-resources

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Welcome to Season Two of our podcast!!! 

We’re excited to kick off this year with Mental Health Coach Angel Clark Brown to discuss how to start 2024 off well with proper goal setting and why we spoke on goal setting versus resolutions. 

The New Year can be a daunting time to figure out what you want to happen and how to achieve it, so Angel helps break it down for us with tangible tips to help us achieve our goals successfully. 

If you want to learn how to set goals properly, and some other tips to help optimize your wellbeing in the New Year, tune in to hear Angel’s podcast! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Strength and Conditioning Coach, Alex Milton, joins us for our FINAL episode of the year!!! 

He takes us on a journey of what it’s like to be a strength and conditioning coach for youth athletes up to the professional level. We discuss various treatment modalities and the challenges and rewards that come with working in various settings and different athletes. 

Alex briefly touches on social media and the problems that may arise from this medium when it comes to forming optimal movement patterns in athletes and maintaining safety. 

Alex is a wealth of knowledge and we’re grateful to have him join us to close out Season One of our podcast.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Speech Therapist, Leigh Root, takes us on the journey inside the brain to describe what happens when someone sustains a concussion to better help us understand her role in managing these patients. 

Leigh shares some tangible treatment ideas like the “Goal, plan, do!”, brain dump, and how the energy tank comes into play when the need to conserve energy comes into play post-concussion. 

If you’ve ever wondered about the role of an SLP in concussion management, tune into this episode! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Athletic Trainer, Katie Brodka, wears many hats within our system, one of which includes sideline coverage and helping athletes post concussion. 

Katie does a deep dive into the ATC’s role when someone sustains a concussion, and the importance of education to athletes, parents, coaches to best help athletes return to play safely. 

Katie reviews some tests that are performed, and even did a little SCAT test herself. Tune into this episode to see how she did and to learn about the Athletic Trainer’s role in Concussion Management. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Dr. Clark joins us today to talk all things Neuropsychology in the treatment of concussions, but first explains with a Neuropsychologist is and the journey to become one.

Dr. Clark reviewed her process of evaluation and treatments for patients post concussion and provides us some tips and tricks to better help this patient population in our PT clinics.

If you've never worked with a Neuropsychologist or don't understand the role they play with Concussions, this episode is for you!

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Dr. Delasobera takes us on a crash course about all things Concussion! She covers what she’s clinically looks for when someone presents with a concussion and other management techniques and processes, she uses with this patient population. 

Dr. Delasobera expresses the importance of the collaborative efforts between providers in managing patients with concussions so as to ensure the patient’s health is attended to in all dimensions. 

If you want to learn more about concussions, what they are, and how they’re managed medically, this is your episode!!! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Physical Therapist, Artie Miguel, takes us through how a Physical Therapist is involved in the treatment of an athlete or patient post-concussion. He talks about the evaluation process from day one all the way to returning to play after sustaining a concussion and who is involved in the team to help the athlete or patient return to life safely and optimally. 

If you’re interested in treating patients with concussions, check this episode out!!! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Registered Dietitian, Nick Fischer, joins us to share his top 5 Health Holiday Eating Tips!!! Here’s a little teaser, but be sure to listen in to here him elaborate on all these helpful hints: 

1. Do not mess with Grandma’s recipes. 
2. Keep in mind that if you already have a well-balanced diet a holiday meal will not undo this. 
3. Don’t go to a holiday meal hungry. 
4. Stick with the foods that you really like. Don’t eat something just because it is available. 
5. Try to include some holiday meal options more often throughout the year. 

 Have a Happy Thanksgiving from your MedStar Health PT Team!!! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Bone stress injuries are often misunderstood—and frequently missed. In this episode, we sit down with primary care sports medicine physician Miranda Gordon-Zigel, MD to break down what physical therapists need to know about stress reactions and stress fractures, high-risk bone sites, low energy availability/RED-S, and smart return-to-running decisions. If you work with runners or field sport athletes, this episode will sharpen your clinical radar and your rehab approach. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Are you interested in running but you’re not sure where to begin? This is your Episode! With Thanksgiving right around the corner, we want to make sure you’re prepared for a successful Turkey Trot 5K with your family and friends. 

Chris and Becca go back and forth with LOTS of tips and tricks to get you on the road/trails and keep you there. 

Podcast Referenced: 

Strength Training for Runners – Episode 35 

Nutrition for Runners – Episode 36 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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We are lucky to have as our guest today Dr. Paul Asdourian, a very accomplushed Spine Surgeon. As he nears his retirement, we got to pick his brain on the evolution of spine fusion surgery and the new technologies that have been implemented throughout his career. 

He dives into what it takes to be a successful surgeon including how he gets into the zone or what he calls his “meditative state” during an operation to block out all distractions. 

He even gives us an idea of something he’d invent if he could to make his job a little easier. 

Thank you to Dr. Paul Asdourian for joining us and we hope you enjoy this episode all about back surgery! 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Jonna and Michelle join us from MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital to discuss their roles as PTs in the acute care setting. They take us through a day in the life, typical patients they treat, and the collaborative care model utilized in this setting. 

They educate us on High Intensity Gait Training (HIGT) and how it’s used in this setting to promote incredible improvements with neuroplasticity allowing patients to become independent quicker than ever. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!