APTA Orthopedics Podcasts - Previously Ortho Static

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists!Explore a lateral elbow pain case involving a 42-year-old female with chronic symptoms. Learn how to differentiate local musculoskeletal versus neural contributions, interpret range of motion and strength deficits, select evidence-based interventions, and determine appropriate next steps when conservative care does not resolve symptoms. Perfect for OCS prep and practicing clinical reasoning for upper extremity conditions.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case SeriesCheck out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audience:physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists!Review a 73-year-old female presenting with new-onset lumbar spine pain following hospitalization and prolonged bed rest. Learn how to identify red flags, interpret systemic factors, apply evidence-based interventions, and distinguish interventions that are not recommended for non-specific low back pain.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case SeriesCheck out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audience:physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists, review a 42-year-old female with insidious lateral hip pain. Learn how to assess greater trochanteric pain syndrome, apply special tests, plan evidence-based interventions, and interpret prognosis and adjunctive therapies.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case SeriesCheck out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audience:physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists, review a 32-year-old male soccer player presenting with an acute posterior thigh injury. Learn how to assess hamstring strains, differentiate biceps femoris involvement, apply clinical practice guidelines, and implement evidence-based interventions for pain management and future injury prevention.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case SeriesCheck out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audience:physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists!Explore an acute ankle sprain case involving a 23-year-old male with a recent inversion injury. Learn how to apply assessment techniques, interpret exam findings, utilize clinical prediction rules, and plan evidence-based interventions. This case emphasizes ankle joint mechanics, nerve involvement, and strategies for optimizing recovery while reducing re-injury risk.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case SeriesCheck out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audience:physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists!Explore a concussion case involving a 16-year-old male with post-traumatic symptoms. Learn how to assess musculoskeletal, cervical, and vestibular-ocular motor impairments, interpret exam findings, and implement safe interventions and activity pacing strategies. Perfect for OCS prep and practicing clinical reasoning for post-concussion management.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case SeriesCheck out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audience:physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists!Explore a shoulder case involving a 45-year-old female with insidious onset shoulder pain. Learn how to interpret exam findings, monitor progression, and adjust interventions appropriately for patients with subacromial and capsular issues. Perfect for OCS prep and practicing clinical reasoning and decision-making skills.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case SeriesCheck out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audience:physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists!Explore a cervical spine case involving a 62-year-old male presenting after a traumatic fall. Learn how to identify key red flags, interpret exam findings, and determine appropriate interventions and safety strategies to support patients with recent trauma. Perfect for OCS prep and practicing your clinical reasoning and decision-making skills.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case SeriesCheck out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audience:physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists!Explore a cervical spine case involving a 55-year-old male with neck and upper extremity symptoms. Learn how to interpret exam findings, apply clinical reasoning, and determine appropriate manual therapy and home exercise strategies for a patient with radicular presentations. Perfect for OCS prep and practicing your clinical decision-making.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case SeriesCheck out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audiencephysical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Greetings, aspiring orthopedic clinical specialists!Explore a cervical spine case involving a 25-year-old female with chronic neck pain and headaches. Learn how to identify cervicogenic headache, interpret key exam findings, and apply evidence-based interventions to improve outcomes. Perfect for OCS prep and clinical reasoning practice.Part of the 2026 OCS Prep Case Series Check out all the OCS prep case scenarios: https://www.orthopt.org/content/resources/prepping-for-the-ocs-exam/ocs-prep-case-scenariosTarget Audience:physical therapists, PT students, orthopedic residents, OCS candidates, educators, clinicians preparing for the OCS exam

Join hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody for the eighth episode of Did You Know?, featuring guest Karen Grävare Silbernagel, PT, PhD, Professor and Associate Chair at the University of Delaware, licensed Physical Therapist, Certified Athletic Trainer, and internationally recognized clinical scientist in musculoskeletal rehabilitation.In this episode, Dr. Silbernagel shares decades of research and clinical insight on Achilles tendinopathy, focusing on what truly matters in rehabilitation. The conversation covers progressive loading, the pain monitoring model, return-to-running decision making, and key findings from a recent international Delphi study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.Target Audience:Physical therapists, sports physical therapists, orthopedic clinicians, rehabilitation professionals, physical therapy educators, athletic trainers, and physical therapy students interested in evidence-based management of Achilles tendinopathy.

Join hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody for Episode 8 of Did You Know?, featuring 2025 Hip Osteoarthritis Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) authors Keelan Enseki and RobRoy Martin.In this episode, the authors take a deeper dive into the latest Hip OA CPG, discussing what’s new, what’s changed, and how physical therapists can apply these evidence-based recommendations in real-world practice. Topics include diagnosis, outcome measures, therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, dry needling, aquatic therapy, and clinical decision-making for patients with hip osteoarthritis.Whether you treat hip OA regularly or want to stay current with best practices, this conversation offers practical insights straight from the guideline authors.Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Orthopedic Physical Therapists, Sports Physical Therapists, Physical Therapy Educators and Students, Clinicians treating patients with hip osteoarthritis, Healthcare professionals interested in evidence-based practice

Pickleball participation is growing rapidly, and with it, unique injury patterns are emerging across all ages and skill levels.In Part 2 of this two-part APTA Orthopedics podcast series, host Dhinu Jayaseelan is joined by Dr. Eric Hegedus to discuss common pickleball injuries, how to diagnose them, and strategies for rehabilitation and prevention.This episode explores load management, footwork and positioning, upper and lower extremity injuries, eye protection, dual-tasking, plyometrics, and sport-specific rehabilitation considerations. Clinicians will gain practical insights for helping patients return to sport safely, reduce injury risk, and optimize performance—whether they’re beginners or competitive players.???? Part 1 covers pickleball participation, movement patterns, skill development, training, and early risk factors.

Pickleball participation has grown rapidly across age groups and skill levels, bringing new opportunities—and new considerations—for physical therapists.In Part 1 of this two-part APTA Orthopedics podcast series, host Dhinu Jayaseelan, PT, DPT, DHSc, OCS, FAAOMPT is joined by Dr. Eric Hegedus to break down who is playing pickleball, why the sport has exploded in popularity, and what PTs should understand about its physical demands.This episode explores movement patterns, footwork, cardiovascular load, skill development, training considerations, nutrition and hydration, and early risk factors that may influence injury. These insights help clinicians better prepare patients for safe participation and performance—before injuries occur.Stay tuned for Part 2 where we'll dive deeper into pickleball-specific injuries, diagnosis, rehabilitation, and prevention strategies

In the final episode of the Stanley Paris Webinar Series, hosted by APTA Orthopedics, Rob Landel, PT, DPT, OCS, FAPTA, reflects on a career dedicated to clinical excellence and specialization—while challenging the limitations of rigid practice silos. Using cervicogenic dizziness and concussion management as a case study, Dr. Landel explores how complex patient presentations demand integrated, cross-specialty thinking that spans orthopedic, neurologic, vestibular, and exercise-based care.This presentation examines the evolution of physical therapy specialization, the role of residency and fellowship education, and why hybrid expertise is essential for managing multifactorial conditions such as concussion, persistent dizziness, chronic pain, and long COVID. Dr. Landel encourages clinicians at all stages of their careers to pursue specialization while remaining curious, collaborative, and committed to lifelong learning in service of their patients and the profession.Target Audience:Orthopedic physical therapists, neurologic physical therapists, vestibular physical therapists, sports physical therapists, residency- and fellowship-trained clinicians, early-career PTs, DPT students, clinical educators, mentors, residency and fellowship faculty, physical therapists treating concussion, dizziness, and complex multisystem conditions

Join hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody for the seventh episode of Did You Know?, featuring Dr. Brian Eckenrode, as they dive into everything you need to know about APTA Orthopedics’ Combined Sections Meeting (CSM). From navigating hundreds of educational sessions and posters, to networking opportunities, special interest groups (SIGs), and must-know tips for first-time attendees, this episode is packed with insights for PT students, new grads, and experienced clinicians alike. Learn how to make the most of your CSM experience, whether you’re interested in outpatient orthopedics, pain management, or just expanding your professional network.Key Takeaways for PTs & Students:- Plan & Prioritize: Learn how to navigate CSM efficiently, select sessions, and make the most of on-demand content.- Network Strategically: Tips for connecting with leaders, SIGs, and fellow students to create long-term professional opportunities.- Explore & Grow: Step outside your comfort zone with new topics, hot sessions, and combined programming to expand your clinical knowledge.Target Audience:Physical therapists, PT students, new graduates, orthopedic PTs, sports medicine PTs, outpatient PTs, APTA members, continuing education seekers, PT educators, musculoskeletal PT specialists

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 practiceTarget 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 treatmentPerfect 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. 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 sportsTarget 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

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 headingTarget 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.

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 staffsTarget 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 planningTarget 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 efficiencyThis 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 specialtyJoin the APTSIG: https://www.orthopt.org/content/special-interest-groups/animal-physical-therapyJoin the APTSIG Community: https://aopt.connectedcommunity.org/homeAPTA 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.pdfAnimal 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.pdfWhy Advocacy Matters: www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/6.WhyAdvocacyMattersFINAL.pdfPathway for Legislative Change:www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/5.PathwayforLegislativeChangeFINAL.pdfAnimal Physical Therapy - Insurance and Checklist:www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/1.Animal_Physical_Therapy_Insurance_and_Risk_Checklist.pdfTarget 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. 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 outcomesTarget 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 cliniciansReferenced 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 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 pressuresTarget 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. 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 athletesTarget 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 athletesClinical 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 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 coachesThe Treatment of Posterior Subluxation in Athleteshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8504591/

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 insightsWhether 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 uncertaintyWhether 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 engagementWhether 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 engagementTools for building PT-dentist collaborationEvidence-based conservative care approachesPractical tips for assessing and treating jaw pain, muscle dysfunction, and cervical contributionsWhether 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 populationsThis session offers a deep dive into how orthopedic and performing arts clinicians can bridge the gap between neuroscience, performance, and rehabilitation.Target AudienceOrthopedic 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 clinicLearn more about our Innovative Practice Award winners here: https://www.orthopt.org/content/s/innovative-practice-award-winnersTarget 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 partnershipsCheck Out Our Sponsor CanineIQ: https://www.canineiq.net/Join the APTSIG: https://www.orthopt.org/content/special-interest-groups/animal-physical-therapyJoin 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 utilizationWhether 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-winnersTarget 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 contributionsWhether 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 successWhether 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/pzaf080/8161542We’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/imagingTarget Audience:physical therapists, PTAs, orthopedic PTs, sports PTs, primary care PTs, outpatient PTs, imaging specialists, rehab clinicians, DPT students, academic faculty, policy advocates