I Love Neuro
We are a couple of neurologic physical therapists on the quest to keep the passion, commitment, and possibilities alive for those who love neuro rehab and wellness like us, without burnout and overwhelm. This show is great for neuro therapists and trainers looking to stay up to date and make a greater impact. Join us in this important movement to elevate healthcare!
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213: Quick High-Impact, Low-Cost Ideas With Dr. JJ Mowder-Tinney, PT, PhD, NCS
05/13/2024
213: Quick High-Impact, Low-Cost Ideas With Dr. JJ Mowder-Tinney, PT, PhD, NCS
Ever feel discouraged about the care you think you can provide without fancy equipment? Not after you listen to this episode! In today’s show you’ll learn easy ideas to make maximum impact no matter what setting you’re in and what you have available to you. We’ll share actual patient stories to give you real examples of strategies to apply in the clinic tomorrow. Making meaningful change doesn’t require a big budget. Sometimes the best ideas come from using what you have around you and from working on the priorities of your patient. Which ideas are your favorites? To attend the live webinar on High-Impact Low-Cost Ideas for the Posterior Chain, register here: Missed the live webinar but want the replay? Email
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212: How To Safely Get To Heart Rate Peak In Order To Modify Parkinson’s With Dr. Daniel Corcos, PhD
05/06/2024
212: How To Safely Get To Heart Rate Peak In Order To Modify Parkinson’s With Dr. Daniel Corcos, PhD
Have you heard exercise is good for people with Parkinson’s? Duh! As a listener of this podcast you most certainly have! Do you know how much someone should get their heart rate up to make a difference? What about how to test them to ensure you understand their peak HR? The research on exercise and Parkinson’s is booming and we want to give you the best information straight from the source. That’s exactly why we invited prominent researcher Dr. Daniel M Corcos, PhD to the show! He’s been involved in pivotal research that actually shows exercise can modify the disease progression. No drug test has ever been able to show this, but his research team is getting closer and closer to understanding exactly what type of exercise people with Parkinson’s should do and in what dosage to truly modify their signs and symptoms and get back to the activities they love. In the episode we discussed a current study, , which is recruiting and aiming to determine whether high intensity or moderate exercise change PD progression. We discuss the specifics of this study and why the exercise prescription was selected the way that it was, what a cardiopulmonary exercise test is and why it’s helpful, how to really measure HR peak, how to get someone up to their HR peak SAFELY and what NOT to do, and resources you must share with physicians in your area! Reach out to us at if you have anyone you’d like to refer to SPARX3 so we can pass your information along to Dr. Corcos. They are recruiting through August 2025. Journal of PD 2023 “” - give this article to physicians by Kristine Meldrum Chapter 11 Edition 11 for PD
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211: How To Approach Pain Neuroscience Education In Neuro With Dr. Adriaan Louw, PT, PhD
04/29/2024
211: How To Approach Pain Neuroscience Education In Neuro With Dr. Adriaan Louw, PT, PhD
Do you work with people who have pain AND neurologic conditions? In our world it would be rare to find someone who doesn’t have at least a few patients or clients who experience pain either as a result of their diagnosis or even pain that is completely unrelated but persists. In this episode we had the privilege of picking the brain of one of the best pain neuroscience educators around, Dr. Adriaan Louw, PT, PhD, senior faculty, pain science director and vice-president of faculty experience for Evidence in Motion. As a leader in the field of pain neuroscience, Adriaan has authored and co-authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles related to spinal disorders and pain science. If you’ve ever seen him teach at a conference his courses are the ones with the overflowing rooms for a reason: He knows his stuff! And clinicians are hungry for the knowledge and skills that will help people with pain feel better and return to function again. We asked Adriaan the best ways to incorporate pain neuroscience education (PNE) into practice when working with people with complex histories. He discussed the importance of both education and an approach to function as well as how to identify who is ready for change regarding their pain. You’ll learn key outcome assessments you should be using for your patients who have pain and how to create a balance of addressing the pain and progressing function in therapy sessions. Assessments like the Central Sensitization Inventory Scale, Fear Avoidance Belief Questionnaire and Pain Catastrophization Survey can help you identify who will benefit the most from PNE. You’ll also learn how language matters and which words to use and which words to avoid when describing pain and other medical conditions as they can impact the pain someone is experiencing. We discuss how to approach a person who feels like their pain is completely physical as well as how much time or effort to dedicate to incorporating PNE in sessions vs other activities and with which patients. You’ll learn this and so much more in the episode! Resources mentioned in the episode (Note, some require permission from authors. Links will give you the information needed to request) free videos for clinicians and patients Join the to be the first to hear when we open again! Dr. Louw will be a presenter inside NeuroSpark in the upcoming quadrimester Summer 2024!
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210: Running Intensives For Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury With Empower SCI
04/22/2024
210: Running Intensives For Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury With Empower SCI
Do you see a gap in the care of individuals that you work with? Sometimes the work isn’t done after discharge, am I right? The desire to fill a gap for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) is what led 2 PTs and an OT to establish Empower SCI in 2012. Empower SCI is a non-profit dedicated to providing intensive rehabilitation experiences for people with SCI by creating immersive, residential experiences with clinical experts, peer mentors, recreational opportunities, and around the clock support. Empower SCI has a unique and innovative model that is volunteer driven and loved by all who encounter it. In this episode we interviewed the co-founders, Carrie Callahan, PT, DPT, ATP, Jessica Goodine, PT, DPT, NCS, and Elizabeth Lima Remillard, MS, OTR/L about everything from how it all started to where it’s all going. They shared the motivation for starting Empower, what “residential program” means, where and how they operate without a brick and mortar, who qualifies and who doesn’t qualify for an intensive, their biggest challenges to running intensives, why they decided to create a nonprofit, their tips for a successful partnership of 3, their new teen program and how you can get involved. Join us for an amazing dive into a life changing program that will inspire you! Please share this episode and information with anyone you know who might be interested in either volunteering or attending! To sign up to be a volunteer or participant use this link: Participants for the upcoming teen program have until June 15, 2024 to apply! IG FB
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209: How To Close the Gap Between Research And Practice With Dr. Carolee Winstein, PhD, PT, FAPTA
04/15/2024
209: How To Close the Gap Between Research And Practice With Dr. Carolee Winstein, PhD, PT, FAPTA
Have you ever felt like there was a disconnect between what the researchers are thinking and what you, as a clinician, are thinking? You’re not the only one! The desire to bridge the gap between research and what really goes on in the clinic has been a topic of discussion for decades. We interviewed Dr. Carolee Winstein, PhD, PT, FAPTA about this very topic and what the possible solutions may be. Dr. Winstein, a pivotal figure in redirecting professional focus towards motor control, motor learning and neuroplasticity, shares her transformational journey. When working with individuals with neurologic conditions in the 1990s (“before neuro rehab was a thing,” as she laughs) she wondered, why do some people get better and some don’t? Her intellectual curiosity propelled her into the sphere of motor learning and control under the tutelage of the esteemed Richard (Dick) Schmidt, PhD, an intellectual leader in motor learning and control and founder and founding editor of the Journal of Motor Behavior. Accumulating over 34,000 citations, Dr. Winstein stands as a luminary in the realm of neuro rehabilitation, boasting an unparalleled expertise in motivation, motor control, and neuroplasticity. She shares why the practice of neuro rehabilitation must be accompanied by an understanding of the behavioral literature. She provides advice and guidance for the clinician struggling to incorporate the research into practice, a warning about Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs), and what types of studies you should actually pay attention to in order to implement emerging evidence. Have you ever felt like your patient population doesn’t really match those studied in the research? She addresses that too and provides advice and encouragement about how to shift this disconnect. Articles mentioned in the interview can be found and downloaded here:
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208: “Old Not Weak” How You Should Actually Train Aging Adults With Dustin Jones, PT, DPT, GCS
04/08/2024
208: “Old Not Weak” How You Should Actually Train Aging Adults With Dustin Jones, PT, DPT, GCS
How much are you challenging the older adults you work with What biases do you have about someone when you see their age or comorbidities? Are they limiting how much you push them? Have you ever thought about the consequences of not pushing someone enough?? On today’s show we interviewed Dr. Dustin Jones, PT, DPT, GCS about his approach to working with aging adults and how it challenges the norm. He was working in skilled nursing facilities and seeing nearly everyone with the same exercises and plans of care despite varying abilities. This led to a desire to change the approach to care to be about determining what is really possible for aging adults and questioning why we only reserve more challenging work for those who are younger. In the episode Dustin explores how many therapists make assumptions (often ageist) about what someone is able or not able to do that isn’t backed up by research. He discusses the fear that something could go wrong when you challenge an older adult and challenges you to consider what could go right. If you approach it the right way, honoring their system and giving time to adapt, older adults have so much to gain by doing heavy lifting and strength training. The bigger risk for this population is actually to underdose them. People who are stronger and more fit have an ability to overcome more illnesses and stay independent longer. We discuss how to have conversations and set expectations for hard work outs that could lead to soreness or even orthopedic flare ups and how this is actually less risky as a consequence of pushing someone than the alternative outcomes that can happen is they aren’t as strong as possible, such as illnesses and chronic conditions from being sedentary. Keys to success with a fitness forward approach include ensuring the exercises are aligned with the patient’s primary goal. If they have pain, address that first but still have the conversation about where you’re going. Keep tying the exercise approach back to their independence and functional goals, and help them see the connection. Make sure they know the worst thing they can do is stop. Assure them to keep coming back so you can help them through it. Dustin runs StrongerLife, a gym for people over 55 and teaches Modern Management of the Older Adult as part of the Institute of Clinical Excellence, or PT on ICE. Learn more about Dustin and StrongerLIfe at - PTonICE.com
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207: Intensity Isn’t Just For Therapy Sessions With Han Nguyen, PT, DPT, NCS
04/01/2024
207: Intensity Isn’t Just For Therapy Sessions With Han Nguyen, PT, DPT, NCS
Everyone 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! For an invitation to our NeuroBiz Besties free slack group fill out
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206: What To Do When You’re Overwhelmed In Your Business
03/25/2024
206: What To Do When You’re Overwhelmed In Your Business
Busy-ness and fluctuations are pretty normal when running a business but do you have trouble turning your business brain off? Can you go on vacation without working? Do you know the signs in your body when you’ve hit your edge? In the world of hustle culture how do you show up differently so you can love what you do and make it sustainable without wanting to burn it all to the ground? If you’re finding it difficult to step away from your business, this episode is for you. If you’re feeling frustrated because you think you’re doing everything right and it’s just not working, this episode is for you. If you’re snapping at people and cranky and you think it’s everyone else’s fault, this episode is for you. We’ve been there too and will provide you with strategies that work for us when we need grounding and a break. Emily Duval Ledger, NeuroBiz coach is here to coach Erin and Claire and anyone listening. You’re sure to come away with permission, insight and tactics.
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205: What You Must Know About Medicare Maintenance Therapy And What Can Happen If You Don’t With Robbie Leonard, PT, DPT, CHC
03/18/2024
205: What You Must Know About Medicare Maintenance Therapy And What Can Happen If You Don’t With Robbie Leonard, PT, DPT, CHC
Who wants to talk about a fun topic?! What if learning about Medicare Maintenance Therapy actually was fun and didn’t make you fall asleep? Well, that’s what you’re going to get on today’s episode! We sat down with our favorite Medicare Utilization Reviewer, Dr. Robbie Leonard, PT, DPT, CHC to discuss the hot and sticky points about Medicare skilled therapy. We know a LOT of US-based therapists have questions and we’re here to help! In today’s show we discuss some common misconceptions about using Medicare for therapy so we can help you pass an audit and stay out of trouble! Some of the topics covered today include: Medicare’s definition of medical necessity and when it does and does not cover services The only 2 standards under which you can treat - restorative and maintenance and what they each mean When do to restorative and when to do maintenance and why you should NOT mix the two The questions you should ask yourself every time you see a patient: Could what I’m doing be provided by a caregiver or technical person that I train? If yes, it should not be billed at all. Unfortunately it doesn’t matter whether there is a qualified caregiver available or not. How you get audited: You can be flagged to be audited because your data profile looks different. If you always use or never use KX you can be audited for being an outlier. You should never stop seeing people just because they’ve reached the threshold. This can be a red flag! What you should NEVER say to a patient about their Medicare dollar usage When it is and is not appropriate to stop providing skilled therapy (hint: it doesn’t have to do with where the patient is in their threshold spend!) How to know if you can provide more therapy to a person who’s reached their threshold for the year: evaluations will always be covered! Why you should not be concerned (or turn away) a patient who has used up to their Medicare threshold or beyond Initial threshold What about Medicare and cash? If you’re providing a covered service you cannot opt out of Medicare as a therapist. You are legally obligated to file a claim. What does wellness look like then? What does a reasonable time frame actually look like? Medicare regulations all US therapists should read: NeuroSpark members find the Parkinson Focus Track call recording with Robbie with additional information covered Find Robbie at: **Please note, the contents in this episode are for educational purposes and should not be considered legal advice
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204: The Most Effective Way To Incorporate The Evidence With EVERY Patient With Oscar Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS
03/11/2024
204: The Most Effective Way To Incorporate The Evidence With EVERY Patient With Oscar Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS
Do you feel like you’re as great a clinician as you could be? Do you know how to apply the evidence in an individualized way? Are you missing anything in your therapy toolbox, if so, do you know what it is? In today’s show we were so excited to interview Dr. Oscar Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS after he won the from the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy component of the American Physical Therapy Association. Oscar is dedicated to the advancement of physical therapy through many advocacy efforts. He spends countless hours treating patients, mentoring students, residents and other clinicians, and focuses on community wellness. He has transformed many lives in his 20+ years in the field and is definitely someone who will take the profession (and healthcare) further as he continues to devote time, effort and energy to these passions. Any clinician or student will benefit from this in depth discussion of what makes a person a really great clinician so they can overcome barriers, empower patients to overcome their real and perceived barriers, and ultimately find perhaps a lost sense of agency. The insights shared will enlighten clinicians at any stage in their career. Some of the discussion points touched upon in this interview include how to determine what to use in your practice from the evidence when you’re stuck between following best practice guidelines and the restrictions faced like resources, patient functional level, other patient/family priorities, and clinical appropriateness for the interventions being suggested. Additionally, we discuss an essential communication tool that can shift power dynamics ultimately leading to better outcomes, understanding of expectations, and satisfaction for patient and clinician alike. Helpful adages like “our discharge plan starts at the evaluation” and “think out loud” will strengthen patient/clinician relationships. Becoming an expert in neurologic therapy goes beyond your clinical skills and the bullet points in the research. Listen to hear how you can elevate your practice right now. If you’re inspired by anything you heard, you can reach out to Oscar in the following ways: @dr_o.g._theneuropt
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203: Vestibular Private Practice, Mentorship And The Real Balancing Act With Christina Garrity, PT, DPT, NCS
03/04/2024
203: Vestibular Private Practice, Mentorship And The Real Balancing Act With Christina Garrity, PT, DPT, NCS
In today’s show we interviewed Dr. Christina Garrity, PT, DPT, NCS about her vestibular therapy world! She left her clinic job to start a private practice because she found that people were not getting quick or easy enough access to this time-sensitive care. She made it happen while also juggling a busy family life plus teaching in PT programs. Soon she was given an opportunity to become a PhD candidate that she could not turn down. In the conversation we discuss the details of how she started small scale with her clinic, her decision to be a non-participating provider with Medicare and why it was necessary, her vision and mission, and more. Vestibular therapy is a special and important area as the chances of dysfunction increase as the population ages and Christina wants to make sure therapists have the tools to help every single person whether they seem like they have a vestibular problem or not (because some are not so obvious!). We make a special announcement about our future collaboration and how you can grow your confidence when working with anyone with a vestibular condition - especially the cases that confound you! This conversation will be inspiring to any therapist who loves neuro, has a practice, has ever thought about having a practice, loves vestibular, or imagines themselves doing something a little less traditional in their career path. Learn more about Christina: Labyrinth Physical Therapy & Wellness www.LabyrinthPT.com Instagram: @vestibular_neuro_pt Website: and courses: Sign up for our email list to learn when we’re releasing Christina's vestibular course for the aging adult and for our beta launch of the BalanceBesties Vestibular Mentorship Group coming soon!
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202: How To Prevent Falls From Retropulsion in PD
02/26/2024
202: How To Prevent Falls From Retropulsion in PD
In this week’s episode we address a listener’s question about retropulsion in people with Parkinson’s. In the show we define retropulsion then provide a plethora of ideas for you to try with your clients to help them restore their ability to move backwards without falling! Sit to Stand (STS) and Standing Postural Issues: Biggest issue: inadequate weight shift forward Factors contributing: “off” medications, low medication with increased bradykinesia, dyskinesia “on” medication Postural changes are a cornerstone of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) Perceptual and visual changes, smaller base of support can impact retropulsion Medication Discussion: Importance of discussing medications with neurologists Hard to out-exercise being undermedicated Treatment Ideas: Weighted Vest: Exaggerate feeling by adding more weight behind or in front Aerobic Exercise: Intense, engaged, elevated heart rate Preferable on treadmill, multi-directional movement STS Treatment: Provide a target in front Encourage body awareness Challenge on different surfaces to augment error Use Blazepod for external cues and motivation Resistance Band Exercises: At the hips, pulling backward Secure attachment, various directions Include targets and external cues Repetition, variety, dual tasks, eyes closed Reactive Balance Training: Backward steps in various positions Posterior activation in quadruped, walking, tall kneeling, prone Clock Yourself App: Use front or back half of the clock for different movements Compensatory Strategies: Staggered stance, wider stance Conclusion: Encourage problem-solving and empowerment Highlight the importance of repetition, variety, and external cues Let us know if you have more questions by sending us a DM @neurocollaborative or posting inside the !
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201: Opportunities and Challenges Are Really A Matter Of Perspective
02/19/2024
201: Opportunities and Challenges Are Really A Matter Of Perspective
In this episode we have an authentic conversation with our NeuroBiz coach Emily Duval Ledger about goal setting, set backs, expectations and more. In the show we share our big and small goals and words of the year as well as what they mean to us. With goals can come expectations and even an attachment to achieving it. What does it mean if you don’t achieve it? Was it worth pursuing or do you feel bad? Join us in exploring the thoughts about setting, pursuing, and achieving goals in the context of running neuro business and in working with neuro clients.
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200: What We’ve Learned In 200 Episodes And Our Top Episodes Revealed!
02/12/2024
200: What We’ve Learned In 200 Episodes And Our Top Episodes Revealed!
Welcome to the 200th episode!! It’s just Erin and Claire on this one. We reflect on how far we’ve come since we first started the show and what we’ve learned. We discussed our memory of first (virtually) meeting JJ and our other instructors and where that led us, our favorite memories from the podcast, the amazing people and connections we’ve made because of having this company, where we’re going in 2024 and beyond, and the 10 top most downloaded episodes! If you want to check out our most popular episodes here they are. Listen to today’s show for our memory of why the episode stood out to us! Big shout out to Blazepod, who we are now affiliates for, and can offer you a 20% discount with our link!! If you’re in the market for amazing equipment that helps you challenge your clients cognitively and physically you’ve got to try them out. Use this link to save 20%:
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199: The Must-Know Documentation Guidelines From A Utilization Reviewer
02/05/2024
199: The Must-Know Documentation Guidelines From A Utilization Reviewer
You do not want to miss this episode!! On today’s show we address one of the most popular topics of discussion among therapists - DOCUMENTATION! The aspect of the job we love to hate. It can be so confusing to know what to include, how to justify, how to demonstrate medical necessity, and on and on. Lucky for you we have a PT Sparky who works as a utilization reviewer. Rachel Walker, DPT, GCS, CBIS, CLWT, CCI is here today and can explain it all! We asked our audience and social media what their biggest struggles were when it comes to documentation and got through as much as we could in the time. Not only do we answer your challenging questions, Rachel also put together a free guide for documenting medical necessity, documenting skilled interventions and providing smart phrase goals you can start using right now to put your mind at ease! A few topics discussed include: The must-haves for compliance with documentation What the specific terms and phrases are that reviewers are looking for Why being specific about the prior level of function and establishing medical necessity is critical Which outcome measures are most helpful and which to avoid How to write assessments that will pass a review including phrases to use and ones to avoid Spontaneous recovery vs skilled therapy What constitutes the need for skilled therapy and what doesn’t How to document for skilled maintenance What maintenance therapy means and who qualifies What the key points are for documenting when the patient’s status is either maintaining or declining Why not having a caregiver is not a reason for maintenance therapy What “medical complexity” really looks like (hint: it’s not just a diagnosis) Download your free documentation guide below:
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198: Creative Strategies For Using Resistance Bands To Improve Function With Dr. JJ Mowder-Tinney, PT, PhD
01/29/2024
198: Creative Strategies For Using Resistance Bands To Improve Function With Dr. JJ Mowder-Tinney, PT, PhD
Do you like new, creative ideas? In this episode we’re talking about why we’re on a kick with resistance bands. Like a lot of equipment we use in neuro rehab it was first intended to be used in the fitness and general rehab population, and because neuro clinicians are crafty we found the uses far surpass strengthening isolated muscles. There are a lot of different types of resistance bands so we’ll talk about some of our favorites. We’ll also discuss different ways these can be used and how they improve movement and function. Resistance bands can be used for error augmentation which engages the cerebellum and leads to learning. They also offer a sensory component that improves movement and function by giving the person using it feedback. Bands can provide assistance for movement an individual may not be strong enough to do on their own allowing their brain to feel what that movement is like. Pick up some new ideas and incentives for using resistance bands in your sessions now! Join us for a free webinar! https://www.neurocollaborative.com/precision-therapy
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197: How To Apply The Principles of Neuroplasticity To OT With Briana Elson, MS, OTR/L
01/22/2024
197: How To Apply The Principles of Neuroplasticity To OT With Briana Elson, MS, OTR/L
Making every session as effective as possible is the goal of a good therapist. It’s critical for helping patients recover function. Want to talk about the principles of neuroplasticity as they apply to occupational therapy? On today’s show we’ll discuss the first 5 principles from the Evidence-Based Review of Stroke Rehabilitation (EBRSR) 2018 update and provide examples of how to apply them in OT practice. Briana Elson, MS, OTR/L, BCPR, CBIS is an OT clinician and mentor at a top rehabilitation hospital with a goal of helping all OTs provide consistent high-level care no matter where they work or who they work with. Principles discussed today: Use it or lose it with prism glasses Use it and improve it with bilateral arm training, CIMT, mirror therapy and mental practice Specificity with task specific training using FES, PSFS and COPM Repetition matters with EMG triggered NMES, amount of reps needed/time needed, and robotics Intensity matters with VR training, HRR (75-85%), aerobic exercise, strength training, and dual task training
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196: Rapidly Improving Outcomes For Chronic Stroke Survivors With Vivistim
01/15/2024
196: Rapidly Improving Outcomes For Chronic Stroke Survivors With Vivistim
On today’s show we interviewed Amanda Saylor and Becca Carr, aka @neuro_OTs on Instagram, about an exciting, relatively new piece of technology advancing outcomes for stroke survivors called Vivistim. This device is the first FDA approved implantable device for rehab for upper extremity recovery. It was approved in August 2021 and is being used in many cities across the US for people with chronic, ischemic stroke in addition to intensive therapy. In the show you’ll learn: The results of the randomize, placebo controlled triple blind study that paved the way for the FDA approval How the device works Who it’s indicated for and who it is not approved for How it’s intended to be used (Hint: THERAPY must be involved) and what that looks like Case study data How people can get one Is it approved by insurances and Medicare? (Spoiler: You’ll be happy to hear it is!) The improvements clients are making with the device are incredible! Clients who were slowing or halted in the progress of their upper limb function are making massive improvements in their functional movement with the implantable device paired with intensive occupational therapy. Learn more and spread the word so more people can benefit from the advancements in rehab. Learn more: Follow @neuro_OTs and @yourotmentor on Instagram for more helpful tips!
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195: What To Know About Post-Stroke Dizziness With Nidhi Seth, PT, DPT
01/08/2024
195: What To Know About Post-Stroke Dizziness With Nidhi Seth, PT, DPT
On today’s show we interviewed Dr. Nidhi Seth, PT, DPT, CCVT, CSRS. She is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with specialization in concussion, neurological and vestibular disorders. After earning her undergraduate degree in Physiotherapy from India, she then went on to pursue her Post-Professional Doctor of Physical Therapy (PP-DPT) at Loma Linda University in Southern California. Dr. Seth further completed extensive training and clinical certifications in neurologic and vestibular disorders as well as management of concussion. Her clinical experience spans 15+ years from academic centers to community hospitals, across both Asia and the United States. She’s a licensed Physical Therapist in the states of California, Colorado and North Carolina. She's the CEO & Founder of NeuroBloom Physical Therapy & Wellness; started in the Bay Area, California and has now expanded to Raleigh, North Carolina. She has sought to teach DPT students across the country about the importance of Neuro-Vestibular Rehabilitation as an APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor and adjunct faculty member with several prominent universities. She is also a faculty innovator & program coordinator at 360 NeuroGO where she teaches on multiple vestibular competencies. In the show today we’ll discuss why Nidhi decided to start her own business, why she chose to create a concierge model, how she expanded into 2 states, and what her schedule looks like as a business owner with 2 clinics plus teaching. Additionally we’ll discuss the ways you can screen for post-stroke dizziness to determine whether the dizziness is central or peripheral. Nidhi will share the tests she performs, the questions you can ask your patients, and what to look out for depending on the location of the stroke. You can learn more about Nidhi and find her course here: Contact details: [email protected] +1 315-447-4590 9360 Falls of Neuse Rd., Ste. 105, Raleigh, NC 27615 Facebook: Instagram: LinkedIn: X (Twitter):
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194: Health Coaching And PT: A Match Made In Heaven With Kathleen Olsen, PT, MS, PCES
01/01/2024
194: Health Coaching And PT: A Match Made In Heaven With Kathleen Olsen, PT, MS, PCES
If you’re tired of the top-down approach or hierarchical model of delivering care and want to embrace more of a biopsychosocial model into your practice, this is a great episode for you! Erin interviews Kathleen Olsen, PT, MS, PCES, a physical therapist with over 17 years of experience treating pelvic health, neurologic and orthopedic conditions. In 2018, she became certified as a women’s health coach from the Integrative Women’s Health Institute. She’s also a certified pregnancy and postpartum exercise specialist. In this episode we discuss what it looks like to approach your treatment and plan of care collaboratively with your patients and clients by incorporating principles learned in health coaching. This can look like asking questions regarding the pillars of health in the initial assessment (and what those are). Asking readiness for change questions like, “Do you want to take action on any of these areas now? Do you need resources or support to do that?” And “What would wellness look like for you? What would living well look like for you?” in order to develop a better understanding of the goals. Inviting your patients to reflect on what they really want and all the aspects of their life can help them transform in ways you’d never be able to just tell them to do. Another helpful way to motivate and educate patients is with the use of technology like self tracking devices. For example, the Oura ring, Whoop band, Garmin, Apple watch, Fitbit, etc. Among simple tracking like steps and HR, a person can do cycle tracking, sleep tracking, or HR variability tracking to see if they are recovering well. Website: https://northcountyinhomept.com/ IG: @kathleenolsenpt
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193: Sowing The Love: Harvesting Wins, Weeding Woes, And Business Shenanigans With NeuroBiz Besties
12/25/2023
193: Sowing The Love: Harvesting Wins, Weeding Woes, And Business Shenanigans With NeuroBiz Besties
As we approach the end of year / new year it’s a great time to think about where you’re going and where you’ve been. Follow along as we discuss what seeds we’ve sown over the past months, what we are celebrating, and what we are removing from our hypothetical gardens with Emily Duval Ledger, Neuro Biz coach. Erin is working to implement the Profit First formula into business and found a company that works as a fractional CFO (aka part time for different companies) for cash based medical companies owned by PTs, OTs, MDs, NDs, etc. Claire is working to implement support groups at Rogue and shares the disappointment of not being selected for a Parkinson Foundation grant. Emily is pausing on her goal of writing the business book she always wanted to have and shares her process for that. Celebrating the fruits of your labor is always a MUST, so we also share our wins. How are you celebrating your harvest? Erin is celebrating the work put into building collaborative partnerships and how it is a win-win for all of us. Claire is celebrating a new funding collaboration, which may end up being even more abundant. She has partnered with a local non-profit so she can offer scholarships to Rogue members. Emily is celebrating the accomplishments of her coaching clients. Many initially came with specific issues and problems and now have crossed those bridges and are finding more stability and happiness in their businesses. What are you removing from your life in the next year? Erin is a constant gardener who is always in weeding mode. Claire is building better boundaries around her time and energy. Emily is challenging and removing the limiting beliefs that keep her from growing the way she knows she’s capable. We’d love to hear your own reflections! We want to celebrate with you as well and hope you take the time to think about the past year and year ahead. If you have a neuro business and want to join our NeuroBiz Besties free Slack group, fill out this form so we can learn more about you and see if it’s a good fit! Links mentioned in today’s episode:
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192: Yoga Improves Outcomes In PT/OT With Chandler Tyrrell, OTR/L, CSRS, RYT 200
12/18/2023
192: Yoga Improves Outcomes In PT/OT With Chandler Tyrrell, OTR/L, CSRS, RYT 200
Thank you for joining us today in a discussion about incorporating yoga into therapy! Erin interviewed Chandler Tyrrell, OTR/L, CSRS who practices in northern Virginia in both inpatient rehab and outpatient settings. She fell in love with yoga after her first class and knew she wanted to become certified. She also found a calling in occupational therapy and saw the benefit of having both specialties in her background to be extremely helpful for people with neurologic conditions. Chandler became certified with LoveYourBrain as well, a non-profit that works to improve the lives of people with brain injuries. In today’s show we discuss: How Chandler uses both yoga and traditional OT treatments in her practice Who benefits the most from having yoga as a part of their program and how to tell if they will What LoveYourBrain is and what their yoga training was like What challenges she faced when organizing group yoga classes at work in the neuro population (ie spinal precautions, flexibility limitations, mobility levels, impulse control, etc) How she incorporates both yoga and intensity into her sessions to maximize outcomes and benefit What some of the research is saying about using yoga with PT/OT and in which populations How to get started with breathwork and yoga even if you aren’t yoga certified with some simple things to try now Follow Chandler on Instagram: @chanroegge Feel free to DM her with any questions! https://www.loveyourbrain.com/yoga https://www.loveyourbrain.com/research https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22836351/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24985393/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0965229914001502?via%3Dihub Insight timer:
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191: Top Tips For Working With Someone With ALS: PT And OT Perspectives!
12/11/2023
191: Top Tips For Working With Someone With ALS: PT And OT Perspectives!
We have a special treat for you today! Erin interviewed Renee Hetzler, PT, DPT, NCS and Bernadette Cummings, OTR/L, ATP who both specialize in working with people with ALS to have a conversation about caring for individuals with ALS. There are do’s and don’ts when working with this population and we wanted to bring it to you! If you’re someone who doesn’t see this population very often and you want to know what to focus on, the timeline of events you should be tuned into and how to prioritize your plan of care, this is the episode for you! Some of the topics discussed include: The types of ALS, initial symptoms, warnings signs and timeline Outcome measures and assessments to consider How to be prepared based on the timeline How to have conversations with the patients and their families Favorite equipment recommendations from PT and OT Exercise recommendations Resources for individuals with ALS and their families ALS Association: https://www.als.org/ Team Gleason: https://teamgleason.org/ Muscular Dystrophy Association: https://www.mda.org/ I AM ALS: https://iamals.org/ Compassionate Care ALS: https://shower-buddy.com/ https://razdesigninc.com/ https://www.fawssit.com/ https://www.etac.com/en-us/us/products/patient-handling/slings/molift-rgosling-toilet-highback/ https://www.performancehealth.com/air-soft-resting-hand-splint https://www.performancehealth.com/rolyan-adjustable-wire-frame-cervical-collar#sin=35206 https://www.amazon.com/DRIVE-Rollator-Walker-Removable-Storage/dp/B07TCTBLD9/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8 https://kineticresearch.com/product/the-noodle-classic-afo/ https://www.amazon.com/Medline-Lightweight-Transport-Wheelchair-Handbrakes/dp/B007WA1ZG4 And no need to take notes, we’ve got an info sheet with everything that was covered for you to download
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190: Why All Of Your Neuro Clients Need Vestibular Therapy And How To Address It With Christina Garrity, PT, DPT, NCS
12/04/2023
190: Why All Of Your Neuro Clients Need Vestibular Therapy And How To Address It With Christina Garrity, PT, DPT, NCS
Vestibular screening and treatment doesn’t have to be only for vestibular specialists! On today’s show we interviewed Dr. Christina Garrity, PT, DPT, NCS about the gaps that exist in vestibular care. All humans have vestibular systems and they can be negatively impacted by neurologic diagnoses, but how do you know if they aren’t reporting dizziness? How do you build treatments into your plan of care when you have so many other things to focus on for “non-vestibular patients” or when you don’t have goggles? We tackle these issues and more to help the neurologic therapist understand why and how to implement easy ways to reduce client falls. The other issue in working with people with vestibular conditions is that they are all so different and after you take the course you may not know how to problem solve through the case. Where can you get mentorship and what could it look like? Christina believes therapists should integrate these pillars into any neuro client treatment plan of care: 1) Visual stabilization, 2) sensory integration, 3) habituation. Additionally, research shows that 25% of people could have BPPV even without the classic symptoms, so you should be screening for BPPV in anyone at a fall risk! Screening doesn’t have to be complicated because you can do the modified side lying test vs the Dix-Hallpike. Her go to screening tests for all balance clients are: HIT, modified side lying test, dynamic visual acuity, modified CTSIB, FGA. Learn more about Christina: Labyrinth Physical Therapy & Wellness www.LabyrinthPT.com Instagram: @vestibular_neuro_pt Website: and courses:
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189: How A Dog Improves Symptom Tracking And Transforms Care For People With Brain Injuries With Lynne Becker, MSPH
11/27/2023
189: How A Dog Improves Symptom Tracking And Transforms Care For People With Brain Injuries With Lynne Becker, MSPH
On today’s show Erin interviews Lynne Becker, MSPH, a biostatistician & epidemiologist with more than 25 years of experience in clinical trials about her platform, Power of Patients, which focuses on empowering patients and caregivers with a free personalized app to track their symptoms and triggers. Power of Patients uses a virtual dog, Sallie (modeled after a real therapy dog!) to help people with brain injuries easily track their symptoms and triggers, alert their medical team of changes, and provide them with suggested clinical trials that may be applicable. This program was born out of a desire to increase the amount of data providers have access to, to understand TBI better, and to establish more clinical research after both of her daughters experienced TBIs. Lynne began looking for clinical trials so her daughters could access evidence-based treatment approaches and found the options were lacking. One of the goals of Power of Patients is to expand upon research so that more trends can be understood and more people can be helped in real-time in a simple, fun way. Anyone listening can see what Power of Patients has the potential to do for individuals and the healthcare system. Having this data warehouse and tracking system is transformational not only for those with TBI but also other conditions like long-haul Covid, MS, PD, stroke, etc. Check out this episode so you can share this amazing tool with your patients and colleagues! IG @ powerofpatients Overview of Sallie: Website: Please email us at info@neurocollaborative if you’re interested in learning how to write up a case report!
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188: 20 Years Of Neuro Recovery With Meghan Malley, PT, DPT
11/20/2023
188: 20 Years Of Neuro Recovery With Meghan Malley, PT, DPT
Multidisciplinary neuro clinics in private practice are a rarity! It's much more common to see ortho clinics and hospital based neuro clinics, so when we learn about inspiring and awesome places like The Recovery Project in Michigan we want to know more! On today’s show we spoke with Meghan Malley, PT, DPT, the Program Director at The Recovery Project. Their clinic is dedicated to knowledge translation, incorporating the latest research into practice, innovation, and providing the highest quality of care. Hence many of the clinicians are or have been part of NeuroSpark! We had the opportunity to talk to Meghan about the structure of The Recovery Project and how it’s been able to expand to 3 clinics and be so successful as a neuro private practice for 20 years. They offer skilled therapies and wellness and also speciality programs like group classes and intensives for individuals post-stroke and with functional neurologic disorders. We talk to Meghan about her career as a neurologic physical therapist, what her role entails, and what she thinks have been the key attributes that have made The Recovery Project successful for 20 years. Enjoy! The IG handle is @recoveryproject FB: The Recovery Project, LLC - Hosted by Polly Swingle, co-owner of The Recovery Project Mary and Charles A Parkhill Foundation:
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187: What Do You Promise Your Clients? Can You Promise Something??
11/13/2023
187: What Do You Promise Your Clients? Can You Promise Something??
Don’t shy away from promising something to your neuro clients just because you are in healthcare or healthcare adjacent! You may feel funny about it because you feel the need to be straightforward. You may think you can't guarantee an outcome, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a promise with what you offer people. On today’s show we discuss the power of the promise, what it is, and how to formulate yours. You’ll hear examples of promises, how to do them and how not to do them, as well as how they will help guide your practice. If you nail this concept we promise you will have more clarity and direction in where you go with your business and attract more clients who are your ideal people! Email if you’d like an invitation to join the Slack group NeuroBiz Besties! Please tell us a bit about yourself and your business so we have some context and make sure it’s a good fit
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186: DPT Student Entrepreneur: When Your Passion Can’t Wait Until Graduation!
11/06/2023
186: DPT Student Entrepreneur: When Your Passion Can’t Wait Until Graduation!
On today’s show Erin interviews a third year Doctor of Physical Therapy Student, Alexandra Kozich about the launch of her new business, Exercise, Rehab, and Wellness for Individuals with Degenerative Diseases (ERWIDD). Alex aims to improve access to health and wellness information to all individuals with degenerative conditions through her new online platform and exercise programs. She’s balancing her duties as a third year DPT student while building this business and has learned a lot in the process. Alex shares what prompted her to create this business and her ‘why.’ She also shares some of the really helpful, low cost or free resources that have helped her with her legal and logistical needs. This episode is helpful and inspiring for anyone starting out in business, student or professional! Find Alex and learn more about her and her offers here: Website: erwidd.com Linktree: linktr.ee/erwidd Instagram: @erwiddinsta Email if you’d like an invitation to join the Slack group NeuroBiz Besties! Please tell us a bit about yourself and your business so we have some context and make sure it’s a good fit
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185: Everything You Need To Know About NCS Recertification With Arielle Resnick, PT, DPT, NCS
10/30/2023
185: Everything You Need To Know About NCS Recertification With Arielle Resnick, PT, DPT, NCS
Erin and Claire have had their board certification in neurologic physical therapy since 2010 and 2009, respectively, and have had some questions (and stress) about the recertification process all along the way. It turns out our friends have too! We’ve received a number of questions from all of you looking for answers and help. On today’s show you will get the help you’re looking for regarding your NCS recertification! Dr. Arielle Resnick, PT, DPT, NCS (yes, we know we’re not supposed to write the initials) is here to answer all of your questions in an easy conservational format. You no longer need to stress because we’ll be addressing all of these questions and more: Why aren’t we allowed to put NCS after our name anymore and who decided that? What should we write instead? What will the format be for retaking the test at the 10 year mark? Why does it take so long to hear back about the recertification status? What are the categories you must meet in MOSC recertification and what qualifies under the different categories? (hint: Lots of things count that you might not think) Does a written case study really capture an individual as a clinical specialist and why was that the decision to include? The Professional Presentation criteria (Category 3 - Professional Presentations, Professional Writing or Research Activities) is difficult for many busy therapists to complete. Are there any other options or suggestions you have for completing it? Do you have to do the MOSC every 3 years? Does your NCS expire if you don’t? What is the timeline from portfolio (year 9 requirement) submission to the exam? What should you do if you’re unsure you’re hitting the criteria in the 3-year cycle? Helpful Links: Follow Arielle on IG @neuro_rehab_knowledge
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184: Functional Movement Disorders: Where Do You Even Start? With Ali Elder, PT, DPT, NCS
10/23/2023
184: Functional Movement Disorders: Where Do You Even Start? With Ali Elder, PT, DPT, NCS
Functional Movement Disorders can be challenging to treat and recover from despite how common they are. The research is growing yet still doesn’t always give enough answers given how variable and complex the presentations can be. On today’s show Board Certified Neurologic Specialist and Schmidt Movement Disorders Fellowship graduate Dr. Ali Elder, PT, DPT, NCS gives you the breakdown on FMD - at least as much as we can cover in under an hour! She’s going to help you understand: What they are and what they aren’t How they occur and the diagnostic criteria What the person’s nervous system is trying to say How the approach is similar to treating chronic pain How both the sensory and motor systems are involved How to prioritize your treatment approach How to be creative in your approach What NOT to do or say when working with someone with FMD Be sure to share this one with your colleagues! Find reputable resources for you and your patients here: NOI Group’s Recognise App: https://www.noigroup.com/product/recogniseapp/ Where to find Ali: @physicalinsights www.physicalinsights.com
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