Why "Manual Therapy" Holds OMPT Back (Fellowship Director Responds)

In this episode, I sit down with Mark Shepherd, fellowship program director, to tackle a controversial question: Is the "manual therapy" label holding back our profession? We explore whether orthopedic manual physical therapy should rebrand itself as the research evolves and public perception shifts.What we cover:Why fellowship training is about reasoning, not just techniqueThe disconnect between what OMPT actually is vs. how it's perceivedHow branding affects patient expectations and clinician identityWhether the manual therapy name limits our ability to attract new fellowsThe role of touch in modern pain care—and why it shouldn't define usThis is a nuanced conversation between two fellows who deeply respect the training but question whether our messaging matches our methods in 2025.🎧 Modern Pain Care Resources:Join the Modern Pain Pro community Learn about Pain Practice OS #PhysicalTherapy #ManualTherapy #OMPT #PainCare #Fellowship #PainScience #Physio*********************************************************************📸 - Follow us on Instagram  -  https://www.instagram.com/modernpaincare/🐦 - Follow us on Twitter -  https://www.twitter.com/modernpaincare/🎙️ - Listen to our Podcast - https://www.modernpaincare.com____________________________________Modern Pain Care is a company dedicated to spreading evidence-based and person-centered information about pain, prevention, and overall fitness and wellness