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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292: Balance Reimagined Using The Gibbon SlackBoard With Derek Mikulski
11/17/2025
292: Balance Reimagined Using The Gibbon SlackBoard With Derek Mikulski
Are you looking for tools to challenge dynamic balance? Duh! Check out what makes the Gibbon SlackBoard different and how it can transform balance outcomes. In the episode, host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS interviews Derek Mikulski, BS, CSCS, CPT, National Director of Commercial Sales for Gibbon about what makes the SlackBoard different from other balance tools clinicians use, like foam pads and BOSU balls. Derek described his entrepreneurial journey that led him to Gibbon. The SlackBoard was born from a passion for fitness and personal transformation, and brings slack lining technology into clinics, schools, and homes. The SlackBoard offers an engaging, fun approach to improving body awareness and stability. With adjustable lines and scientific research underway, the board supports everything from rehabilitation to performance training for everyone from stroke survivors to professional athletes. Check them out at and save 10% with our affiliate code “neurocollab” GIBBON North America, Inc.
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291: Let’s Have A Chat About Your Biz Finances With Emily Duval Ledger
11/10/2025
291: Let’s Have A Chat About Your Biz Finances With Emily Duval Ledger
On today’s episode hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS talk with NeuroBiz coach Emily Duval Ledger about a topic many clinicians and business owners find intimidating: Money. This is exactly why we need to talk about it! Are you investing, saving, or putting systems into place in your business for money management and your future? If not, we understand. And we also want to help make this less overwhelming. Learn how to break down your financial goals and understand your true needs so you can create a business that supports both your professional passion and personal aspirations. In the episode we’ll discuss some surprising and easy ways you can understand your business finances and explore retirement savings options, health insurance costs and other necessities. While not legal or financial advice, learn about retirement options like SEP IRAs and 401(k) plans, high-yield savings accounts, and index fund investments. We’ll walk you through it and show you how to build a business that supports your life in all the ways!
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290: Brace Yourself: AFOs After Stroke With Dr. Jennifaye Brown, PT, MSPT, PhD, NCS, CAPS
11/03/2025
290: Brace Yourself: AFOs After Stroke With Dr. Jennifaye Brown, PT, MSPT, PhD, NCS, CAPS
Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs) are essential in neuro rehab yet can be an area clinicians feel a lack of knowledge. This episode is for the clinician who is both - super knowledgeable about AFOs, AND the clinician who could use more education. Hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS interview Dr. Jennifaye Brown, PT, MSPT, PhD, NCS, CAPS about her work transforming the way we think about ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) for stroke survivors. Her approach goes far beyond traditional medical practice, focusing on personalization, functionality, and patient empowerment. Her level of understanding on the topic will leave even seasoned therapists with insightful takeaways. Dr. Brown doesn't just see AFOs as medical devices, but as tools that can dramatically improve a stroke survivor's quality of life. Her book, "Brace Yourself: Everything You Need to Know About AFOs After Stroke," was written to empower stroke survivors and their caregivers with comprehensive, accessible information about AFO selection and use. Yet there are important sections for healthcare professionals as well. It is an essential tool for the clinic. With a PhD in exercise science and decades of clinical experience, Dr. Brown continues to push the boundaries of stroke rehabilitation. Her work reminds us that true healing goes beyond medical interventions - it's about understanding, adapting, and empowering individuals to live their best lives. jvb physical therapy services, llc Order ebook (Flipbook or PDF): Website: jvbneuropt.com LinkedIn: YouTube:
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289: How Not To Abandon The Hemiplegic Arm In Every Treatment Session With Dr. Melissa Kimmerling, EdD, MOT, OTR/L
10/27/2025
289: How Not To Abandon The Hemiplegic Arm In Every Treatment Session With Dr. Melissa Kimmerling, EdD, MOT, OTR/L
How well are you incorporating the hemiparetic arm of your client into every treatment technique? Do you know when to use remediation vs compensation techniques? Let’s talk about it! On today’s episode host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Dr. Melissa Kimmerling, EdD, MOT, OTR/L dive into strategies for upper extremity recovery, focusing on patients with limited arm function after neurological injuries. Dr. Kimmerling, an occupational therapy expert, shares invaluable insights into helping patients maximize their arm's potential, even when movement is minimal. The discussion centers on the critical concept of not abandoning the affected arm, but instead finding creative ways to integrate it into daily activities. Dr. Kimmerling emphasizes that recovery isn't an all-or-nothing process. Even a dependent arm can play a meaningful role in functional tasks. Key strategies include proper positioning, weight-bearing techniques, and incorporating the arm into bilateral activities. Mental imagery and mirror therapy emerge as powerful tools for maintaining neural pathways and sensory awareness. The experts stress the importance of helping patients feel independent, even if their movement looks different from before. The conversation highlights the delicate balance between remediation (working to restore function) and compensation (finding alternative ways to complete tasks). Dr. Kimmerling shares personal experiences and clinical insights, reminding listeners that participation is always the ultimate goal - even if it's messy or imperfect.
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288: Should You Add Exercise Coaching To Your Practice?
10/20/2025
288: Should You Add Exercise Coaching To Your Practice?
In this episode, hosts Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS and Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS discuss a new service Claire added for members of Rogue, her Parkinson’s wellness gym in southern California. She added weekly, open exercise coaching sessions for all members. She decided to add these sessions because after sharing research articles with members there were a lot of questions about how to actually implement the advice into their lives. Claire shares the research articles that prompted the idea of adding exercise coaching, an article from Frazzitta (see link below). The researchers performed a month-long intensive treatment involving three hours of daily therapy for people with dyskinesias. The study showed significant improvements in mobility, with some participants even reducing their medication dosages. Claire’s coaching calls offer an opportunity to teach people how to ramp up their intense exercise, which modes make sense to the individual, how to deal with pain, understanding medication adjustments, etc. Claire recommends a few resources, including Dr. Eric Ahlskog's book "The New Parkinson's Disease Treatment Book" as an essential resource for understanding medication optimization and challenging common misconceptions about Parkinson's treatment. Tune in to determine whether this intervention would work for your setting and how to incorporate it! Read the article here:
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287: How To Get More Engagement In Your Social Media With Katie Nathan, PT, DPT, NCS
10/13/2025
287: How To Get More Engagement In Your Social Media With Katie Nathan, PT, DPT, NCS
If you’re a business owner you’re probably doing (or trying to do) social media in order to get more clients. How’s that going? Don’t worry - we know it can be a challenge! In this week’s episode hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS talked to Katie Nathan, PT, DPT, NCS owner of Move by Movement in Reno, Nevada, and NeuroBiz coach Emily Duval Ledger about Katie’s recent change in her social media approach. She shifted from teaching to something more vulnerable yet professional in order to connect better with her prospective ideal clients. She shared how this shift has dramatically improved her engagement with clients, particularly those managing Parkinson's disease. The key to her success was recognizing that her personal challenges could be a powerful tool for connection. By sharing lessons learned from her own experiences, she created a more meaningful relationship with her audience. She shares how to balance this approach so it's not over-sharing and what she does to channel her best ideas. You’ll learn what you can do to approach your social media with your own authentic voice and the systems you can put into place so you can show up consistently without the stress. Check out the past episode we did with Katie: IG:
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286: From Pain Points To Progress: Tools To Help Clinic Owners With Dharma Leggat
10/06/2025
286: From Pain Points To Progress: Tools To Help Clinic Owners With Dharma Leggat
In this week’s episode hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS talk to Dharma Leggat from Superior Medical Equipment (SME) about some of the challenges and opportunities facing rehabilitation clinics. The discussion centered on how technology and strategic partnerships can help clinicians overcome industry hurdles. They discussed the potential of artificial intelligence to transform clinical practice. From streamlining documentation to providing remote patient monitoring, AI offers potential solutions to reduce administrative burden and improve patient care. Leggat emphasized the importance of working with technology partners who truly understand the nuanced needs of healthcare professionals. Since they had him on the show, host Claire, a clinic owner specializing in Parkinson's wellness programs, took the opportunity to voice some of her biggest challenges. She described her ideal management system - one that could track comprehensive patient data, monitor class attendance, and generate meaningful insights about patient progression. Her vision goes beyond traditional medical record keeping, aiming to create a holistic view of patient health and treatment effectiveness. Tune in for the discussion that ensued! SME, Inc. USA - Superior Medical Equipment - Check out SME’s new solutions surveyed from our client-base to help mitigate most common clinical pain points - Connect with Dharma so that I could learn more about your clinic/practice and see how we might be able to help
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285: Amplifying Your Perturbation Balance Training With The Balance Tutor Treadmill
09/29/2025
285: Amplifying Your Perturbation Balance Training With The Balance Tutor Treadmill
This week’s episode of the I Love Neuro podcast explored an innovative rehabilitation technology that's allowing rehab professionals to incorporate multidimensional balance training in the safest, most objective way possible right now. Host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS is joined by Todd Gilbertson from MediTouch USA and Chris McElderry, PT, DPT, NCS to discuss the BalancedTutor treadmill. Derived out of posturography technology this treadmill expands beyond assessment and actually allows clinicians to treat balance disorders to the whole spectrum of patients in a safe, effective and objective way - no jerry rigging required. As a clinician it benefits you to learn about the latest technology and equipment available, so this episode is simply to provide you with an inside peak conversation about a piece of equipment that is reducing falls and maximizing function for people with vestibular and balance disorders. You’ll learn about the functionality of the system as well as hear from Chris McElderry, a clinician who has been using it in the clinic for 5 years. He shares how the device is able to create precise, graded perturbations that help patients build confidence and improve their functional mobility. Todd Gilbertson emphasized the technology's versatility, noting that it can simulate real-world balance challenges like walking on uneven sidewalks or navigating crowded spaces. The treadmill's advanced features include 30 intensity levels of movement and the ability to create anterior, posterior, medial, and lateral perturbations. Learn more about the BalanceTutor by going to Linkedin: Email: Follow Chris at Episode 280:
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284: How To Be A Great Mentor With Dr. Elise Ruckert, PT, DPT, EdD, NCS
09/22/2025
284: How To Be A Great Mentor With Dr. Elise Ruckert, PT, DPT, EdD, NCS
Are you a mentor or expected to be one in your clinic? If you’re like most neuro clinicians you’re taking students and your colleagues are always picking your brain about their neuro patients. This episode was inspired by a Sparky question from Jackie who asked what do I need to do in order to become a good mentor? Hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS brought on Dr. Elise Ruckert, PT, DPT, EdD, NCS to teach us how to be a great mentor. Elise, a self proclaimed “educational pedagogy nerd,” has trained mentors for many years to regional and national audiences. She illuminates the nuanced world of mentorship, emphasizing that it's far more than a one-way transfer of knowledge. Instead, mentorship is a dynamic, bi-directional relationship where both mentor and mentee contribute and learn from each other. She challenges the traditional view of mentoring as simply imparting information, instead framing it as a collaborative journey of professional growth. The discussion explores critical frameworks for effective mentoring, including Bloom's Taxonomy and Donald Schön's reflection types. These approaches help mentors ask more meaningful questions, moving beyond surface-level content to deeper levels of critical thinking and professional development. The discussion also expanded into the topic of interdisciplinary mentorship, with insights into how mentors can effectively work across different healthcare disciplines. The podcast emphasizes that mentorship extends beyond clinical skills, encompassing communication, professional development, and broader contextual understanding. Get practical advice for getting your mentorship program started. LinkedIn Website: IG:
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283: The Easiest Way To Treat The Pelvic Floor With Your Neuro Clients With Grace Weiland, PT, DPT, CAPP-PH
09/15/2025
283: The Easiest Way To Treat The Pelvic Floor With Your Neuro Clients With Grace Weiland, PT, DPT, CAPP-PH
We know that you know your neuro clients have a pelvic floor… but are you doing anything to help it?? You may be surprised how many of your clients have weak, tight, spastic, or flaccid pelvic floors, and the issues arising from this may be preventing them from fully engaging in their lives. If you want to help but don’t know where to start, this episode is for you! We break it down for the non-pelvic floor PT and give you the skinny on how to screen and incorporate an easy, functional progression of activities into what you’re already doing with your neuro clients. Grace Weiland, PT, DPT, CAPP-PH, a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor therapy, shares her expertise on an often overlooked but critical aspect of treating pelvic floor dysfunction in neurological rehabilitation. Working in a rural critical access hospital, Grace highlights the importance of pelvic floor health for all patients, not just those with specific pelvic issues. She explains that pelvic floor dysfunction can significantly impact quality of life, leading to social isolation and reduced participation in activities. Grace discusses how pelvic floor problems are common but not normal, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers to approach the topic professionally and sensitively. She offers practical strategies for screening and addressing pelvic floor issues, including breathing techniques, functional exercises, and subtle strengthening methods that don't require invasive interventions. The conversation reveals the interconnectedness of pelvic floor health with overall body mechanics, highlighting how exercises targeting stability, balance, and proper breathing can improve pelvic floor function. Grace will be presenting a detailed webinar on this topic during the upcoming NeuroSpark quadrimester, breaking down approaches for different neurological impairments and providing clinicians with valuable tools to support their patients' comprehensive rehabilitation. **A correction note from the episode: The pelvic floor co-activates when any of the following 4 muscles are activated: glute max, hip adductors, Transverse abdominus, obturator internus. To get access to Grace's webinar go to to learn how to become a Sparky the next time NeuroSpark opens!
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282: How To Introduce A New Wellness Class
09/08/2025
282: How To Introduce A New Wellness Class
In this week’s episode hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS discuss how Claire is introducing a new exercise class at Rogue called "Stretch and Flow." This class was designed to meet members' requests for a gentler, more restorative exercise experience. The class will combine guided meditation, slow power moves, and breath work, offering a unique approach for people with Parkinson's and varying mobility levels. In the show Claire will explain the structure of the class as well as the rationale for offering it in this way. She emphasizes that while the class is less intense, it's not meant to replace high-intensity workouts but to complement them. With both in-person and online options, the class aims to provide accessible, mindful movement for Rogue members. The inspiration came from member feedback and Claire's observations about the benefits of meditation and breath work for managing Parkinson's symptoms. By offering a class that focuses on slower, more intentional movement, Rogue hopes to support members' overall wellness and provide a recovery-focused option that can help reduce freezing and dyskinesia. We’ll also discuss the process for adding a new class, how you know when it’s the right time or if a new class isn’t going to cut it as well as how to decide when to offer it during the schedule. Claire is optimistic about the class's potential and looks forward to seeing how members respond to this new approach to exercise and wellness.
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281: The Surprising Things Roller Skating Will Teach You About Business With Emily Duval Ledger
09/01/2025
281: The Surprising Things Roller Skating Will Teach You About Business With Emily Duval Ledger
In this week’s episode, NeuroBiz coach Emily Duval Ledger shares with hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS the lessons she’s learned so far from attempting a hard thing: Learning to roller skate at 48 years old. Emily decided to try something new. Something she wasn’t inherently good at and through her roller skating experience, she’s picked up lessons that overlap with the things business owners need to keep in mind. She describes how her initial skating lessons put her face to face with the biggest thing she wanted to avoid - falling - and why it ended up being the best thing. Emily emphasizes that successful entrepreneurs often emerge from previous failed ventures, and approaching challenges with curiosity instead of anxiety can lead to greater success. The episode highlights the importance of infusing fun and playfulness into learning, demonstrating how pairing skill practice with lighthearted conversation can reduce performance pressure and enhance creativity. Emily argues that leaving space for joy allows individuals to be more nimble and innovative in both personal pursuits and professional environments. Her final lesson focuses on "softening" when encountering obstacles - maintaining flexibility and a relaxed mindset when navigating unexpected business challenges, much like adjusting one's stance while roller skating over uneven terrain. By sharing her vulnerable learning process on her "Silver Skate Girl" Instagram account, Emily hopes to inspire others to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new experiences. The conversation ultimately celebrates continuous learning, community support, and the value of approaching life's challenges with openness, humor, and resilience. You can follow Emily on her skating journey
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280: Using Blood Flow Restriction Training In Neuro With Chris McElderry, PT, DPT, NCS
08/25/2025
280: Using Blood Flow Restriction Training In Neuro With Chris McElderry, PT, DPT, NCS
Neuro rehab / neuro wellness… if you’re listening to this podcast chances are anything you’re doing is skilled! On today’s show you’re going to be inspired by Chris McElderry, PT, DPT, NCS as he shares his journey with host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS. Chris went into PT with a sports focus but quickly realized neuro was where it’s at. After completing his neuro residency and working full time in outpatient he was compelled to expand. He wanted to provide inspiration and ideas to other clinicians on social media and also grow his own wellness side gig. Chris, also known as @theneuroguy_dpt founded The Neuro Guy LLC, a wellness and coaching company, in 2022. In this episode he talks about how he overcame hesitation and fear of doing neuro wellness outside of the insurance model and prioritized giving people what they needed to thrive. One of the treatment interventions he’s using is blood flow restriction (BFR) training for neurological populations. Chris explains the mechanism behind BFR training, a technique that uses specialized cuffs to partially restrict blood flow during low-intensity exercises. He describes the potential benefits for patients with conditions like stroke, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries, emphasizing its safety and effectiveness when properly implemented. He maintains that despite loads of research for BFR in the orthopedic population, it’s just emerging in neuro, and he’s ready for it to grow. If you want to learn more about BFR in neuro, join us inside NeuroSpark when we open again Sept 16, 2025! Chris will be presenting an educational webinar on the topic inside! Learn how to join at Follow Chris at
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279: Bullet Proof Documentation With Phyllis Goldstein, M.S., CCC-SLP, RAC-CT, CHHI-CP
08/18/2025
279: Bullet Proof Documentation With Phyllis Goldstein, M.S., CCC-SLP, RAC-CT, CHHI-CP
Wonder if your documentation is up to snuff to pass an audit? Tune into this episode where hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS interviewed Phyllis Goldstein, a speech-language pathologist with extensive experience in Medicare audits and appeals! She shares her journey from clinical work to becoming an expert in navigating the complex world of therapy documentation and reimbursement. Phyllis emphasizes the critical importance of detailed, skilled documentation using precise language that explains exactly what makes their intervention unique and necessary. The discussion explores the challenges therapists face, particularly in neurological specialties, when transitioning patients between skilled therapy and maintenance programs. Phyllis stresses the difficulty of determining when therapy becomes repetitive and no longer medically necessary, while acknowledging therapists' genuine desire to help patients maintain their functional abilities. She provides insights into the Medicare audit process, sharing her strategies for successfully appealing denied claims and her impressive 85-90% overturn rate. She also addresses the big question of are there a lot of cases of therapists going to court for charging cash for wellness services that should really be billed to Medicare as therapy? Get in touch with Phyllis here: 410-382-900 Phyllis@pgconsultants.net
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278: A Naturopathic Take On Treating PD With Dr. Tanya Denne, ND
08/11/2025
278: A Naturopathic Take On Treating PD With Dr. Tanya Denne, ND
Have you ever been curious how a naturopath approaches medicine for a person with Parkinson’s? Turns out it’s super comprehensive. Spoiler alert - we couldn’t cover it all, but what you’ll learn from Dr. Tanya Denne, ND will blow your mind! Hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS learn about Dr. Denne’s journey into naturopathic medicine and her groundbreaking research on Mucuna pruriens, a botanical treatment for Parkinson's disease. Driven by a personal connection to neurological conditions through her grandmother's Alzheimer's, Dr. Denne discovered naturopathic medicine as a holistic approach to healthcare that goes beyond traditional Western medical treatments. Her research focuses on Mucuna pruriens, a subtropical plant with remarkable potential for Parkinson's patients. Unlike traditional medications, Mucuna contains high levels of levodopa and offers multiple beneficial constituents, including amino acids, glutathione, and antioxidants. Dr. Denne emphasizes that the plant isn't a cure, but can potentially slow disease progression when used correctly. The biggest challenge in using Mucuna is ensuring quality and proper dosage. Dr. Denne warns about widespread supplement adulteration, recommending patients work closely with qualified practitioners to source safe, effective products. She suggests using Mucuna as a complementary treatment to standard Parkinson's medications, particularly Sinemet, to optimize patient outcomes. One of her most compelling case studies involves a patient whose Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) score dramatically improved from 27 to 8 through an integrative approach combining Mucuna, exercise, and foundational health optimization. Patients interested in learning more can visit Dr. Denne's website at Dr Denne.com for consultations and further information about integrative approaches to neurological health. IG
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277: Finding And Establishing Your Neuro Clinic Space With Emily Duval Ledger
08/04/2025
277: Finding And Establishing Your Neuro Clinic Space With Emily Duval Ledger
Ever dream of having a lively clinic space where all of your neuro dreams come true? In this episode Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS and Emily Duval Ledger, NeuroBiz coach dive deep into the challenging journey of finding and establishing a brick-and-mortar space for a neurological therapy and fitness business. They share candid insights about their personal experiences, emphasizing that the process is far more complex than traditional real estate hunting. The conversation highlights the importance of starting small by renting space from others, which allows entrepreneurs to test their business model and understand their specific spatial needs without significant financial risk. Both Claire and Emily describe their initial steps of teaching classes in shared spaces like gyms, physical therapy clinics, and even parks before committing to a long-term lease. Their discussion reveals the intricate negotiations involved in commercial leasing, including understanding different lease types, build-out costs, and landlord expectations. They stress the value of creativity in lease negotiations, such as reduced rent periods, longer lease terms with incremental increases, and finding landlords who genuinely want long-term tenants. The podcast also delves into the practical challenges of renovations, with Claire sharing her experience of a $70,000 build-out that transformed a dated gym space into a perfect neurological wellness center. They candidly discuss unexpected costs, the importance of doing renovations comprehensively, and the need for spaces that can accommodate specialized equipment and exercise programs. Tell your clients about !
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276: Clinical Use Of Spinal Stimulation For Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation With Rose Tilton, OTR/L, OTD
07/28/2025
276: Clinical Use Of Spinal Stimulation For Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation With Rose Tilton, OTR/L, OTD
If you’re anything like us you always want to do everything possible to help your neuro patients recover and improve as much as possible. On today’s show host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS interviews Rose Tilton, OTR/L, OTD about an intervention that she took straight from the research to the clinic: spinal cord stimulation with transcutaneous stimulation. After learning about its applicability in the literature Rose was eager to use it with her patients but hit some road blocks. Finally she was in touch with the authors of a study who helped her and her colleagues become trained in using transcutaneous spinal stimulation on people with spinal cord injury. The clinicians found the intervention was not only simple to do but also very effective for maximizing outcomes in upper extremity rehab, lower extremity rehab, trunk control for balance, bowel and bladder and even sexual function. In today’s episode Rose breaks down exactly what you need to know in order to start using this intervention with your patients today using equipment you already have! Gain clinical insights that will spark your curiosity to learn more in this episode. While you’ll learn exactly what to do, best practice dictates that you do additional research to ensure you have competency and clearance from your clinical state practice act to perform this intervention. Rose encourages therapists to stay curious, reach out to researchers, and be proactive in exploring new interventions that could transform patient outcomes. Link to article discussed on the episode:
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275: Advancing Care For People With Dementia With Rachel Wiley, MS, OTR/L, CDP
07/21/2025
275: Advancing Care For People With Dementia With Rachel Wiley, MS, OTR/L, CDP
In this episode of the I Love Neuro podcast, hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS sat down with Rachel Wiley, MS, OTR/L, CDP, an innovative occupational therapist who is transforming dementia care through her Dementia Collaborative. With over a decade of experience, Rachel has dedicated her career to supporting individuals living with dementia, their families, and healthcare professionals. Rachel's journey began with a personal connection - her practice, originally named Day by Day Home Therapy, was inspired by her grandmother and aunts who lived with dementia. Recognizing the isolation in dementia care, she created the Dementia Collaborative, a membership-based community that brings together occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to share knowledge and support. After transitioning from direct clinical care to a consulting model, Rachel now focuses on family coaching, innovative research and education for healthcare professionals. She uses evidence-based approaches like the the Skills2Care framework, CARE checklist and framework, and the Green Activity Program study. The CARE checklist and framework is a tool she helped co-create that uses non-verbal cues to assess consent, protecting residents' dignity and right to human connection. She has a ton of resources for you to check out!
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274: OT Fellowships: To Do Or Not To Do?
07/14/2025
274: OT Fellowships: To Do Or Not To Do?
We know our listeners are lifelong learners and there are different ways to gain clinical excellence. On today’s show Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS talked to 4 occupational therapists who’ve completed an OT fellowship. Briana Elson, MS, OTR/L, BCPR, CBIS, Lindsey Talcott, MOT, OTR/L, Gianna Neutts, MS, OTR/L, and Jocelynn Aguilar, MSOT, OTR/L are here to discuss their experience and provide insights about OT fellowships and specifically the one they completed. OT fellowships are intensive one-year programs that offer more than just additional training; they provide a comprehensive approach to mastering neurological rehabilitation. Fellows experience concentrated mentorship, rotate through diverse neurological settings, and develop a deep understanding of evidence-based practice that goes far beyond traditional clinical education. The key motivation for pursuing a fellowship is clear: to become an exceptional clinician who can truly make a difference in patients' lives. The panel emphasized the importance of having at least a year of clinical experience before applying, demonstrating a strong work ethic, and showing a genuine passion for neurological occupational therapy. Also discussed are what the application process is like, the factors that would make you a competitive candidate and who is not a good fit for this type of program. The programs are challenging, requiring fellows to balance full-time clinical work with additional educational commitments - do you want that? Graduates emerge with increased confidence, specialized skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning that sets them apart in their field. Listen to the conversation and see which path you prefer to lead you to clinical excellence!
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273: How To Price Your Services With Emily Duval Ledger
07/07/2025
273: How To Price Your Services With Emily Duval Ledger
Wait, you mean you have to charge for your amazing services?! How scary!! The pricing conversation is a BIG one! If you’ve ever felt scared to ask for a dollar amount, to raise your prices or even did what most clinicians do and undercharged, this episode is for you! Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS, Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS, and Emily Duval Ledger, CPT dive deep into setting and raising prices for professional services. The key takeaway is clear: healthcare professionals often dramatically undervalue their expertise. Many therapists and wellness professionals struggle with pricing, frequently charging far less than their services are truly worth. The hosts shared personal experiences of initially undercharging, revealing common mistakes that plague the industry. These include basing prices on limited insurance reimbursements, feeling guilty about charging fair rates, and failing to account for the true costs of delivering high-quality professional services. Claire McLean introduced her "back and forth math" approach to pricing that considers multiple financial factors. This method involves calculating monthly income needs, factoring in taxes and business expenses, determining realistic client capacity, and carefully considering additional costs like staff, benefits, and overhead. The goal is to create a pricing structure that not only sustains the business but allows practitioners to deliver their best work. The conversation highlighted several key pricing principles that can transform a struggling practice into a thriving business. Practitioners must recognize that their energy and expertise are their most valuable assets. Charging appropriately prevents burnout and allows professionals to maintain the passion that drew them to their field. By creating clear value and communicating pricing transparently, businesses can attract clients who are truly committed to their own transformation. Learn practical strategies and insights so you and your clients will both thrive!
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272: Learn About FALI’s Innovative Weighted Walker Attachments
06/30/2025
272: Learn About FALI’s Innovative Weighted Walker Attachments
Have you ever put weights on a walker? We’re guessing you have! Likely ankle weights…Did you find those ankle weights slide around and didn’t stay where you wanted? Well there is an actual product designed by a PT/OT duo that makes weighting ANY assistive device easier and more precise. Physical therapist Nicole Fellows, MS, PT, DPT and occupational therapist Sarah Ali, MS, OTR/L, CSRS, AIB-VRT/CON share their story of developing FALI Rehab, a company that offers adjustable weighted attachments that can be easily added to walkers, canes, and other assistive devices. Sarah and Nicole share how the idea came to fruition, what the process has been like, who benefits from the weights, why you might want to try them and where to learn more info. The weights range from 1-3 pounds and can be customized to individual needs, designed to improve proprioception and stability for users with conditions like Parkinson's, stroke, and ataxia. The product helps users feel more confident and stable while walking and can be used in clinical settings and at home. Their product addresses multiple challenges by providing immediate feedback to the nervous system, allowing users to continue using their preferred assistive device, and offering an affordable alternative to purchasing multiple specialized walkers. Currently, FALI Rehab is working on an improved design that will make attachment even easier, with plans to launch that version in late July/early August. Therapists and individuals interested in improving mobility can learn more at www.falirehab.com. IG is Linked in: FALI Rehab Equipment, LLC
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271: Scaling A Mobile Insurance-Based Neuro Practice With Katie Wadland, PT, DPT, GCS
06/23/2025
271: Scaling A Mobile Insurance-Based Neuro Practice With Katie Wadland, PT, DPT, GCS
Dr. Katie Wadland, PT, DPT, GCS's entrepreneurial journey is a testament to adaptability and patient-centered care. What began as a pandemic-era pivot while homeschooling her children transformed into Healthy Aging Physical Therapy, a robust 20-person mobile practice specializing in geriatric and neurological rehabilitation. Her practice emerged from a critical healthcare need, offering innovative at-home therapy services that prioritize patient accessibility. Unlike traditional clinical models, Wadland created a flexible business approach that allows therapists to manage their own schedules while maintaining high-quality care standards. Financial sustainability came through a strategic blend of insurance-based and wellness services, with approximately 70% of revenue from Medicare and 30% from wellness programs. By maintaining transparent financial practices and implementing a profit-sharing model, Wadland cultivated a collaborative team culture that values both professional growth and work-life balance. A key differentiator in her practice is the emphasis on continuous learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. Therapists are encouraged to co-treat, leveraging individual specialties to provide comprehensive patient care. This approach not only enhances clinical outcomes but also creates a supportive professional environment. Wadland's success underscores an important healthcare entrepreneurship principle: innovative practices can thrive by remaining patient-focused, adaptable, and committed to both clinical excellence and team development. Her model offers a compelling blueprint for healthcare professionals seeking to reimagine traditional service delivery. FB: @HealthyAging PT IG: Web:
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270: Experiences From A PT Movement Disorders Fellowship With Andrew Doubek, PT, DPT, GCS, NMD
06/16/2025
270: Experiences From A PT Movement Disorders Fellowship With Andrew Doubek, PT, DPT, GCS, NMD
Ever consider specializing deeper into an aspect of neuro? Wonder what it’s like to dive deep into a subset of the neuro population and sharpen your practice? In today’s show, host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS interviews Andrew Doubek, PT, DPT, GCS, NMD about his recent experience going through an accredited movement disorders fellowship program at the Ohio State. In the show we talk about the details of what the fellowship was like from the schedule, mix of experiences, requirements and types of patients. Andrew shares his insights and words of wisdom to anyone considering a fellowship. Plus, with documentation efficiency being top of mind for so many clinicians, Andrew generously shares his handout of smart phrases crafted from the Clinical Practice Guidelines that you can plug into your assessments and progress notes to ensure you’re targeting the key aspects needed in your notes in less time. Download the smart phrase guides here!
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269: Focused, Intense Anticipatory Postural Training Improves Multiple Balance Measures In PD With Sharanya Chavva, PT, DPT
06/09/2025
269: Focused, Intense Anticipatory Postural Training Improves Multiple Balance Measures In PD With Sharanya Chavva, PT, DPT
Balance is a common challenge among people with Parkinson’s disease and it can be made even more challenging when there is both a risk of falls AND a high fear of falling. What’s a clinician to do to improve overall balance when your patient is too fearful to try so many things? On today’s show Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS discusses exactly that predicament with physical therapists Sharanya Chavva, PT, DPT and Jennifer Lazaro, PT, DPT, NCS who share the findings of their poster from APTA CSM 2025. Their poster, which outlines a case study of a PwP, won the APTA Balance and Falls SIG first place award. Their research focuses on a unique approach to balance interventions that incorporates high intensity focused training on one aspect of balance - Anticipatory Postural Adjustments (APAs) - that demonstrates transference to other balance outcomes. Key Highlights: - The study centered on a patient in the early stages of Parkinson's disease who had significant anxiety about falling - Traditional balance training methods weren't effectively improving her confidence - They introduced a novel approach using a specific anticipatory postural adjustment (APA) training protocol - A Zero G harness system was utilized to help the patient feel more secure during exercises Remarkable Results: - Patient's balance confidence (ABC score) increased from 73% to 80% - BESTest score improved dramatically from 62% to 83% - Patient began engaging more in daily activities like grocery shopping - Achieved high-intensity training with up to 160 repetitions per exercise This case study demonstrates that targeted, high-intensity balance training can significantly improve patient confidence and functional mobility. By focusing on anticipatory movements and creating a safe training environment, therapists can help PwP overcome their fear and improve their quality of life.
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268: When You’re Compelled To Serve With Leann Vitale, MS, OTR/L
06/02/2025
268: When You’re Compelled To Serve With Leann Vitale, MS, OTR/L
So many clinicians are passionate about ensuring their clients get everything they need to gain the level of independence and quality of life they deserve after diagnosis. The disappointing part is they don’t always have access to the expert care they need. That’s where Leann Vitale, MS, OTR/L found herself several years ago realizing she had a dream to start her own practice in order to fill the gap. Taking that leap is scary and risky. Fortunately she met the perfect contact and mentor to get her going! In this episode of the I Love Neuro podcast, Leann shares her transformative journey from hospital-based therapy to founding Orange County Occupational and Physical Therapy (OC OT and PT), a specialized neurological rehabilitation practice. Driven by a passion for helping patients with Parkinson's disease and stroke recovery, Leanne took a bold leap of faith, quitting her hospital job and collaborating with Claire at Rogue to create an innovative care model that bridges the gap between individual therapy and ongoing wellness. Leann's approach is unique in its commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care. She shares the challenges and thoughtful decisions she made about her 60-minute model of care, accepting insurance and other decisions that felt right to her. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to improving neurological rehabilitation, offering inspiration to healthcare professionals looking to make a meaningful difference in patients' lives.
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267: Advanced Strategies And Insights For Treating Individuals With Ataxia With Dr. Jeannie Stephenson, PT, PhD, MS, NCS And Dr. Staci Shearin, PT, PhD, NCS, GCS
05/26/2025
267: Advanced Strategies And Insights For Treating Individuals With Ataxia With Dr. Jeannie Stephenson, PT, PhD, MS, NCS And Dr. Staci Shearin, PT, PhD, NCS, GCS
Treating individuals with ataxia is challenging for many reasons. Having some key insights from the literature is just what you need! That’s why on this week’s episode Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS interviewed Dr. Jeannie Stephenson, PT, PhD, MS, MCS and Dr. Staci Shearin, PT, PhD, NCS, GCS to discuss their research and clinical experiences in treating ataxia. The speakers recently presented a webinar inside NeuroSpark for members and the takeaways were so good we had to bring them on the podcast to share more! In the episode you’ll learn their insights on various types of ataxia, effective therapeutic approaches, and the importance of intensive task-specific training. They’ll debunk common misconceptions such as the most effective approach to training and whether or not weighting is a good idea. The answers may surprise you. They also provide practical advice for clinicians on using assistive devices, outcome measures, and external cues to enhance patient treatment and support. This episode is an informative resource for anyone interested in improving mobility and the quality of life for individuals with ataxia. Want to dive deeper into treating ataxia and get continuing education credits? Good news! We’ve recently updated the Ataxia Masterclass for PTs and OTs with 3 all NEW modules for a total of 6.25 contact hours, including the webinar mentioned in the episode by Dr. Stephenson and Dr. Shearin!
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266: How To Go From Mobile To Brick-And-Mortar In Neuro Rehab With Han Nguyen, PT, DPT, NCS
05/19/2025
266: How To Go From Mobile To Brick-And-Mortar In Neuro Rehab With Han Nguyen, PT, DPT, NCS
Are you a neuro clinician working mobile or thinking about starting your side gig? Perhaps you’ll want to expand into your own space. day. Perhaps you already are and want to see if you can learn anything new. This episode will break it all down! Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS has a conversation with Han Nguyen, PT, DPT, NCS about how she built Neubility Rehab from a mobile practice to a brick-and-mortar in St. Petersburg, FL. She shares her top tips for negotiating equipment and co-op space as well as strategies to increase revenue outside of patient care. Key Insights: - Negotiated equipment and space costs strategically - Focused on creating an accessible, specialized neurological rehabilitation clinic - Expanded beyond traditional PT by hosting community education courses Critical Business Strategies: - Always negotiate pricing and rates - Maintain an emergency fund for unexpected challenges - Collaborate with local nonprofits and healthcare professionals - Create multiple revenue streams through space rentals and continuing education The clinic's growth demonstrates the importance of: - Understanding your numbers - Being flexible in business model - Serving a specific community need - Continuously learning and adapting To see what Han’s creating go to Follow them on IG
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265: To Residency Or Not To Residency With Mari Biers, PT, DPT
05/12/2025
265: To Residency Or Not To Residency With Mari Biers, PT, DPT
A question many clinicians face is whether or not to go to a residency program. There are pros and cons either way and a LOT to consider. Additionally, with so many residencies available to clinicians there are things you want to look for that will be a good fit for you. Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS talk with Mari Biers, PT, DPT who is currently completing a neurologic residency at the University of Missouri. This conversation highlights multiple perspectives as Mari is currently in residency, Claire completed a neurologic residency and Erin did not do a residency. Mari highlights the immense value of residency programs for new physical therapists seeking accelerated professional growth and we also touch on the ways that you can grow without doing a residency since it is not the only path to clinical excellence. Key Takeaways: - Residencies offer intensive mentorship, improving clinical reasoning and confidence - Programs provide comprehensive learning across different healthcare settings - Participants gain deep insights into specialized neurological treatment approaches - Continuous feedback and structured learning help rapidly develop clinical skills Mari's experience demonstrates that residencies are more than just additional training - they're a pathway to becoming an exceptional clinician. While challenging, these programs provide unparalleled opportunities for professional development, research exposure, and specialized neurological rehabilitation expertise. For ongoing mentorship and lifelong learning join NeuroSpark! Go to to learn more. Instagram:
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264: Dementia Care - Evidence-Based Strategies For Rehabilitation Professionals With Dr. Natalie Douglas, PhD, CCC-SLP
05/05/2025
264: Dementia Care - Evidence-Based Strategies For Rehabilitation Professionals With Dr. Natalie Douglas, PhD, CCC-SLP
We’ve heard from our audience a lot that working with people with dementia can be very challenging for a number of reasons. In this episode Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS interviewed Dr. Natalie Douglas, a speech-language pathologist and dementia expert on her insights for rehabilitation professionals working with individuals living with dementia. Learn key tools that will help individuals follow through with tasks more independently while breaking down the barriers to application of the tools, practical strategies, do’s and don’ts of working with individuals with dementia and how to approach the topic of ongoing maintenance vs when it’s time to discharge to wellness. Upcoming Resource: Dr. Douglas will be teaching a comprehensive dementia care masterclass in NeuroSpark this summer, offering practical case studies and intervention techniques for PTs, OTs and assistants. Go to to learn more about NeuroSpark. Professionals can download her free communication training manual to enhance their dementia care approach. Communication strategies download: new bluesky: @natfdouglas.bsky.social
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263: Every Vestibular System Has A Person With Marc Broberg, PT, DPT, NCS
04/28/2025
263: Every Vestibular System Has A Person With Marc Broberg, PT, DPT, NCS
Today’s episode compares persistent dizziness with persistent pain. There are patterns and insights from the literature that can help clinicians improve their approach to treating people with dizziness. Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS interviews Marc Broberg, PT, DPT, NCS on his theories after diving into the literature and treating people with dizziness for 15 plus years. Marc explains how approximately 25% of people with dizziness develop persistent symptoms. He shares the one key factor in determining how well they will recover. He believes successful treatment isn't about eliminating symptoms, but empowering patients to reconnect with their lives and rebuild their sense of self. Clinicians and patients alike can learn that recovery is a collaborative journey, not just a medical intervention.
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