Beyond the Research: What Actually Works in the Clinic

In this episode, Tony Mikla and Russ Dunning tackle one of the most important challenges in physical therapy and sports performance: the disconnect between academic research and what actually works in the clinic.They break down:Why research can feel outdated or irrelevant by the time it reaches clinical practiceThe challenges of applying rigid protocols to highly variable human bodiesHow real-world testing, athlete feedback, and pattern recognition fill the gapsThe role of AI and data in customizing care and predicting adaptationThe importance of identifying limiting factors and training the athlete in front of you—not the one in a textbookPlus, they explore how PTs and coaches can work with universities (instead of waiting on them) and why the future of rehab may depend on clinician-led research rooted in real movement.Whether you're a clinician, student, or coach, this episode will challenge how you think about evidence, testing, and what truly drives better outcomes.