207: Intensity Isn’t Just For Therapy Sessions With Han Nguyen, PT, DPT, NCS
Release Date: 04/01/2024
I Love Neuro
In this episode, hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS discuss a new research article, “Refining maximal heart rate estimation to enhance exercise recommendations for persons with Parkinson’s disease.” Parkinson’s is a multi-system condition and changes to the function of the autonomic nervous system are common. At times this can present as a person with PD having trouble reaching aerobic heart rate zones calculated based on age while they’re performing high intensity exercise. Claire explains the challenges they’ve faced using standard heart rate...
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In this episode of the I Love Neuro podcast, host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS interviews physical therapist and neuro rehab residency coordinator Jennifer Lazaro, PT, DPT, NCS about evaluating and treating people with long COVID and dysautonomia. Jennifer notes the similarities in presentation for individuals who have post-COVID those with other conditions affecting the autonomic nervous system, like concussion with cognitive fog, severe fatigue, post‑exertional malaise, dizziness, and orthostatic intolerance. She walks through practical assessment strategies such as active stand testing,...
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In this 300th episode, hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS invited long-time collaborator JJ Mowder-Tinney, PT, PhD, NCS to join so we could recap the best takeaways from Dendrite Expansion Days (DED), NeuroSpark’s three-day, fully experiential education event for OTs and PTs. We share how Naomi Castro’s “falling well” course progressed clients from floor work to standing falls in one session, describe hands-on equipment stations featuring frictionless sheets, BlazePod, Rifton, Saebo, UprightVR, and more, and highlight real client stories—especially...
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Do you feel ready for that next big step? A transition in your career like leaving your job to start your own business, or transitioning your side gig to full time, or hiring your first employee. Neither did any of us! In this episode hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS have a discussion with NeuroBiz coach Emily Duval Ledger about what it really means to be “ready” for big transitions like starting a business, leaving a job, or hiring your first team member. We share our stories like Claire and Emily opening brick-and-mortar gyms, Erin and Claire starting and...
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In this episode of the I Love Neuro podcast, hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS discuss a major Lancet Public Health systematic review and meta-analysis on daily steps and health outcomes in adults, shared from a post by movement disorders neurologist Dr. Michael Okun. Claire explains that the study, which pooled data from multiple cohorts using device-measured steps, found the number of steps per day that is associated with substantial health benefits, including about a 47% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to less steps. This amount also demonstrated...
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In this week’s episode, host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS is joined by OT mentor Briana Elson, MS, OTR/L, BCPR, CBIS to dive into one of the most essential topics in spinal cord injury rehab: bowel and bladder care. We unpack why every rehab professional (not just nursing) plays a role, how unmanaged bowel and bladder can lead to serious health issues, and practical strategies to support independence, dignity, and community reintegration. Brianna shares equipment ideas, education tips, and real-world problem-solving for both bladder and bowel programs, plus how this all connects to intimacy,...
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We’re getting techy!! On this week’s episode hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS share a new tool that’s changing everything at Rogue, Claire’s wellness gym for people with PD. Claire confesses to using paper documentation until recently and is now entering the 21st century. What’s propelling her into the “now” is a new tool she’s been trying for a couple of weeks called the Plaud NotePin. It’s a small, wearable, and HIPAA-compliant AI device designed for healthcare professionals that helps with documentation either in-session or via dictation...
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This week’s episode is a little different. We wanted to give you a full view inside a VestiBesties mentorship call where Christina Garrity, PT, DPT, NCS interviewed a neuro-otologist she works with in Ohio, Dr. Jimmy Prueter. Dr. Prueter was invited to the conversation to help clinicians better understand when, why and which tests people with vestibular conditions should be getting. The conversation-style interview is between Christina and Dr. Preuter, taken straight from a VestiBestie webinar so you can have exclusive access! In the discussion they outlined the challenges associated with...
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In this episode of the I Love Neuro podcast host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS talks to Christian Leonakis, PT, DPT, Alanna Wathen, PT, DPT, and Danielle Parmenter, MOT, OTR/L, SCLV about Myomo and the MyoPro upper extremity myoelectric orthosis. The world of neurological rehabilitation, innovation continues to push the boundaries of what's possible for patients recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological conditions. Enter Myomo, a groundbreaking myoelectric orthosis that's changing lives one arm movement at a time. This isn't just another medical device—it's a...
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Is treating dystonia making you stuck? Dystonia remains one of the most challenging neurological conditions for clinicians to understand and treat. In this episode, hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS talk to occupational therapist Leanne Vitale, MS, OTR/L about her holistic approach that goes far beyond traditional treatment methods. Dystonia isn't just a movement disorder; it's a complex interplay of neurological, psychological, and sensory experiences. Leanne emphasizes that understanding dystonia requires looking beneath the surface—much like an iceberg,...
info_outlineEveryone is on their own timeline. For some the notion to start a business doesn’t happen until well into their career. For others it happens almost immediately. For some, the slow growth method is right. For others it’s full speed ahead. Dr. Han Nguyen, PT, DPT, NCS is a PT who’s constantly seeking growth and opportunity. She asks, “what’s next?” and continues to strive for more and better. In today’s show we had the opportunity to learn about how she set up a multidisciplinary neuro rehab clinic in Saint Petersburg, FL focused on high intensity sessions, creative treatment strategies and team work. Han mentions some very key ways she was able to grow so quickly including being involved in her community. She also discusses the transitions she did from starting out mobile to renting shared space to recently signing a lease of her own. She’s learned lessons with hiring, negotiating, and growing her team. She also discusses her model of care and why she decided to be participating with Medicare. She also highlights the importance of understanding who you’re here to serve (hint: it’s not a diagnosis), getting clear on your messaging and one invaluable investment that has made all the difference. If you’re looking for inspiration to start your own thing or you’re already doing it, you’re sure to take away helpful insights in today’s show!
If you’re interested in coaching for your neuro biz, schedule a discovery call with Emily Duval Ledger today! https://www.neurocollaborative.com/request-a-discovery-call-neurobiz-1
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