Blurring the Lines of Expertise: A Specialist’s Confession Learned from Cervicogenic Dizziness

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