Let's Get Physical (Therapy)

Send us Fan MailPlantar fasciitis is one of the most common, and challenging, conditions physical therapists treat. In this episode, we sit down with Elise Egolf, PT, Program Specialist for MedStar Health's Foot and Ankle Program, to discuss the latest evidence-based approaches to evaluating and managing plantar heel pain. Elise shares practical insights on differential diagnosis, progressive loading, strengthening strategies, return-to-activity decision-making, and common misconceptions that can impact patient outcomes. Whether you're treating runners, active adults, or patients with persistent heel pain, this conversation offers clinical pearls you can immediately apply in practice. In this episode, you'll learn: How to differentiate plantar fasciitis from other causes of heel pain Evidence-based treatment strategies that improve outcomes Best practices for load management and progressive strengthening Return-to-running and return-to-sport considerations Clinical tips for managing chronic or persistent plantar heel pain  Whether you're an orthopedic specialist, sports physical therapist, or general outpatient clinician, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to help you confidently treat patients with plantar fasciitis. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we take a deeper look at plantar fasciitis from the medical perspective with Dr. Mansur, a foot and ankle specialist. We discuss the evolution of our understanding of plantar fasciitis, how to accurately diagnose plantar heel pain, when imaging and medical interventions are appropriate, and how physicians and physical therapists can collaborate to improve patient outcomes. This episode provides valuable insights for PTs looking to better understand the medical management of one of the most common foot and ankle conditions. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailPlantar fasciitis is one of the most common, and challenging, conditions physical therapists treat. In this episode, we sit down with Elise Egolf, PT, Program Specialist for MedStar Health's Foot and Ankle Program, to discuss the latest evidence-based approaches to evaluating and managing plantar heel pain. Elise shares practical insights on differential diagnosis, progressive loading, strengthening strategies, return-to-activity decision-making, and common misconceptions that can impact patient outcomes. Whether you're treating runners, active adults, or patients with persistent heel pain, this conversation offers clinical pearls you can immediately apply in practice. In this episode, you'll learn: How to differentiate plantar fasciitis from other causes of heel pain Evidence-based treatment strategies that improve outcomes Best practices for load management and progressive strengthening Return-to-running and return-to-sport considerations Clinical tips for managing chronic or persistent plantar heel pain  Whether you're an orthopedic specialist, sports physical therapist, or general outpatient clinician, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to help you confidently treat patients with plantar fasciitis. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I catch up with former student turned colleague Alice Wolfkill, now a physical therapist, clinic coordinator at MedStar Health Lake Ridge, and an active member of the running pod team. We talk about her transition from PT student to clinician, taking on leadership early in her career, working with runners at events like the Boston Marathon, and the lessons she's learned along the way. It's a fun conversation about growth, mentorship, and chasing opportunities. One more piece of advice Alice wanted to leave new grads with is: “Put your oxygen mask on first! If you’re not taking care of yourself, you’re not going to be able to take care of anyone else”.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailThe 2026 baseball season has been defined by a spike in oblique strains, the rise of the "Internal Brace," and a mounting workload crisis in youth arms. We sit down with Chris Brandt, ATC/PTA, to break down the "Chalk Talk" of modern sports medicine. Chris shares his unique dual-perspective on how we are assessing, treating, and—most importantly—preventing the most common injuries hitting the IL this year. From big-league stars to the next generation of flamethrowers, we’re looking at what the data (and the tape) is telling us about the state of the game. Key Topics: Internal Brace vs. UCL Reconstruction: What PTs need to know. The biomechanics behind the 2026 oblique strain epidemic. On-field "red flags" for youth pitching fatigue. Differentiating TOS from standard overhead fatigue. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailHow do the pros use dry needling to keep elite pitchers on the mound? In this episode, we sit down with physical therapists Jonathan Rouse and Steve Luca to dive into the clinical application of dry needling for baseball athletes. Both Jon and Steve work extensively with ballplayers across all levels, including Steve’s work with the MedStar Health Orioles Pitching Lab, integrating dry needling as a precision tool for more than just pain relief. We discuss how they utilize needling to reset the kinetic chain, manage in-season muscle guarding, and optimize the neuromuscular windows required for high-velocity throwing. Whether you are a sports PT looking to refine your technique or a coach interested in the latest recovery tech, this deep dive into the "how" and "why" of needling the overhead athlete is a must listen. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIf you are working on the frontlines of rehab today, you know that treating patients is only half the battle. Every day, we’re dealing with the business realities of healthcare—from prior authorization delays and compliance fatigue to reimbursement cuts and burnout. But behind the scenes, there is a massive effort underway to protect our industry and stabilize our future. Our guest today is at the absolute center of that fight. Joining us is Christie Covington, the Executive Director of the National Association of Rehabilitation Providers and Agencies—better known as NARA. Today, Christie is pulling back the curtain on how high-level advocacy impacts the daily lives of treating therapists and clinic owners. We’re diving into what NARA is doing on Capitol Hill to fight Medicare Advantage hurdles, how they're preparing us for the shift to value-based care, and how they support the organizations keeping this industry moving forward.  www.NARANET.org Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Let’s Get Physical (Therapy), we’re joined by Carrie Krug, an experienced pelvic health physical therapist and leader who has dedicated her career to advancing pelvic health care and mentoring the next generation of clinicians. We discuss what pelvic health physical therapy really involves, pathways to specialization and certification, the importance of mentorship, and the many opportunities available for therapists interested in this rewarding and growing specialty.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailACL rehab isn’t just about what happens in the clinic—it’s also about what happens in the kitchen. In this episode, we’re joined by registered dietitian Grace Duffy from Fit with Food to break down the critical role nutrition plays in ACL recovery. From fueling before injury even happens to optimizing healing after surgery, Grace dives into what athletes and clinicians need to know to truly support recovery. We explore key topics like protein needs, minimizing muscle loss during downtime, and the often-overlooked impact of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). Whether you're an athlete, clinician, or coach, this episode will challenge you to think differently about how nutrition can influence outcomes every step of the way. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailACL rehab is a grueling journey, but the hard truth is that standard physical therapy protocols often fall short. In this episode, we’re breaking down what physical therapists get wrong, from rushing the biological healing process and skipping critical milestones, to ignoring movement mechanics and completely forgetting to train the opposite leg. Joining the show to separate fact from friction is physical therapist and sports residency graduate, Jordan Cargile. Jordan brings her elite, frontline expertise in high-level athletic recovery to reveal why we need to slow down, respect the healing process, and completely reframe how we approach ACL rehabilitation. Whether you're a clinician looking to level up your protocols or an athlete navigating your own recovery, this episode is a masterclass in doing ACL rehab the right way. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with Dylan Carmody, PT, to discuss how force plate testing can be used throughout the rehabilitation process to provide objective data and guide clinical decision-making. We talk about what force plates actually measure, where testing fits into different stages of rehab, and Dylan’s go-to tests that provide the most useful information for clinicians working with athletes. We also dive into which metrics really matter, how force plate data can uncover asymmetries or deficits that may not be obvious during traditional assessments, and how this information can help guide return-to-play decisions. Dylan shares practical insights on how he communicates this data with athletes and offers advice for physical therapists looking to integrate force plate technology into their practice. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailThe surgery is only the beginning. For an athlete, the real battle happens in the months of grueling work that follow, bridging the gap between "medically cleared" and "game-ready." In this episode, we sit down with a premier Strength and Conditioning Coach to deconstruct the high-stakes journey of ACL recovery. We’re diving deep into: The Hand-off: When should an athlete move from the PT table to the weight room? The "Quad Gap": Practical strategies for rebuilding explosive power and muscle volume. Movement Cheats: Identifying the hidden compensations that lead to re-injury. The Mental Wall: How to rebuild an athlete's trust in their knee when the game is on the line. Whether you’re an athlete in the thick of the grind or a coach refining your protocol, this is your roadmap for the long road back. Listen in as we define what it truly takes to return to play, and stay there.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailAn ACL tear doesn’t automatically mean surgery, and not every ACL-deficient athlete is the same. In this episode, I’m joined by Kellie Loehr, ATC, who shares her personal journey of tearing her ACL and choosing non-operative management, alongside physical therapist Samantha King, PT, to break down what it really means to be a “coper.” We discuss how clinicians identify potential copers, the role of strength and neuromuscular control, psychological readiness, and how to determine who may successfully return to sport without reconstruction. This episode challenges the all-or-nothing narrative around ACL tears and emphasizes individualized decision-making and high-quality rehab.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m joined by orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Dreese to explore the additional injuries that can accompany an ACL tear, including MCL, LCL and posterolateral corner injuries, PCL involvement, meniscus repair versus meniscectomy, and cartilage damage. We discuss how these associated findings influence surgical decisions, rehab precautions, and long-term outcomes. If you’ve ever had two ACL patients who progressed very differently, this conversation explains why it’s rarely “just an ACL.”Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailACL repair is showing up more in clinics, but a lot of PTs are still unsure how different it really is from reconstructions, and whether rehab should actually change. Today we’re breaking down what ACL repair really is, who it’s for, and where clinicians can get into trouble by treating it like a ‘lighter’ ACL surgery. I’m joined by Dr. Douoguih, an orthopedic sports surgeon, to talk candidly about patient selection, early loading, failure risk, and how PTs can better collaborate with surgeons when managing ACL repairs. If you’re seeing ACL repairs in your clinic—or expect to soon—this episode will give you a clearer framework for treating these patients with confidence. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailWe talk about ACL injuries today with a lot of confidence, risk factors, injury rates, prevention strategies, but that understanding didn’t just appear overnight. It evolved through years of research, debate, and plenty of early assumptions that didn’t always hold up. In this episode, we’re stepping back to look at how the epidemiology of ACL tears actually began and how our thinking has changed over time. I’m joined by Dr. Richard Hinton to unpack the origins of ACL injury research, the major shifts in how we understand risk, and what clinicians still tend to misinterpret when applying population data to individual patients. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailMay is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to start important conversations about mental well-being. Nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences a mental health condition each year, yet stigma and lack of resources can make it hard to seek support. In this episode, I’m joined by Amanda Davis and Amanda Bush to discuss why mental health awareness matters, how to recognize signs that someone may be struggling, and practical ways to support yourself and those around you. We explore ways to break stigma, prioritize well-being, and normalize conversations about mental health in both personal and professional life. Listeners will come away with actionable insights and encouragement to make mental health a priority—not just in May, but every day.Resources:https://medstar.connectsyou.org/  : Mental Health Online Screening Tool (MOST)988 - Suicide and Crisis Lifeline available 24/7Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailMay is Better Speech and Hearing Month, and on this episode, we’re joined by our amazing SLPs, Leigh Root and Leah Inger. They break down what speech-language pathologists really do, who they work with, and why their role is so important across the lifespan. From helping kids develop communication skills to supporting adults with speech, cognition, and swallowing, Leigh and Leah share what a day in their world looks like—along with the challenges, wins, and impact they see every day. It’s a great listen for anyone curious about the profession or looking to better understand the vital role SLPs play in patient care.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailStep inside the medical tent at the Boston Marathon with PT Diane Dallas, ATC Cece Sullivan, and ER physician Dr. Sasser. In this episode, they share what race day is really like—fast-paced, high-pressure, and built on true teamwork across disciplines. From treating dehydration and cramping to managing more serious medical situations, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at how clinicians come together to keep thousands of runners safe at the finish line. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailWhen an athlete gets injured, the focus is often on the physical, but the mental side of recovery can be just as challenging. In this episode, licensed professional counselor Kate Ringwood joins us to explore the psychology of injury, including fear of reinjury, identity loss, and the emotional hurdles athletes face during rehab. We also discuss how physical therapists can better recognize and support these challenges to help athletes truly feel ready to return to sport.  Find Kate on IG at serendepitity.counseling or on her website at www.serendepitiycounseling.com Kate is licensed in NJ, MD, PA, FL, VT, AZ Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailMiles Across MedStar Health Recap Episode!!!What happens when endurance, healthcare, and purpose collide? In this episode, we sit down with professional ultramarathoner Michael Wardian, PT Chris Heydrick, PA Chris Wilde, and Raj Ratwani to unpack their incredible 170 mile run across the MedStar Health system. From the inspiration behind the idea to the physical and mental challenges along the way, this is a story about resilience, teamwork, and the power of movement to connect people and communities. Learn all about Mike Wardian at: https://www.mikewardian.com/ Follow Mike on IG: @mikewardian Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a Physical Therapist gets a blank check and a dream location? In this special episode, we’re stepping away from the clinical protocols to rank the Top 10 things we’d pack to build the world’s most elite "Desert Island" PT clinic. We’re diving into our ultimate gear list, including: The High-Tech Splurges: From anti-gravity treadmills to advanced motion-capture systems. The Unsung Heroes: Why the simplest tools often provide the biggest wins. The Gold Standard: The essential recovery tech we’d choose for high-performance results. Whether you’re a clinician building a dream gym or a patient curious about the best tech in the game, join us for this unfiltered look at the tools of our trade. What’s the one piece of gear you can’t live without? Let us know on social media! Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn recognition of Occupational Therapy Month, this episode highlights the vital role occupational therapists play in helping patients regain independence and return to the activities that matter most in their daily lives. I’m joined by occupational therapists Mike Duffy and Carly Bland to discuss the scope of occupational therapy, the types of conditions OTs commonly treat, and how they collaborate with other members of the rehab team to support patient recovery. Carly also shares insight into her role as a Certified Hand Therapist and what it takes to specialize in treating complex hand and upper extremity injuries. This conversation offers a closer look at the impact occupational therapy has throughout the rehabilitation journey and why the profession is such an essential part of patient care.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn honor of National Athletic Training Month, we’re highlighting the voices shaping the future of the profession. On this episode, I’m joined by Mary Nadelen, Clinical Associate Professor of Kinesiology and Clinical Education Coordinator for Athletic Training at Towson University in Maryland. Mary gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to educate and mentor the next generation of athletic trainers. We discuss the evolution of athletic training education, the importance of clinical experiences, the challenges students face entering the profession, and the incredible impact athletic trainers have across healthcare and sport. Whether you’re a clinician, educator, or student, this conversation shines a light on the people preparing tomorrow’s athletic trainers.To learn more about Towson University's ATC program, check out: https://www.towson.edu/chp/departments/kinesiology/athletic-training/Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn this special Athletic Training Month episode, I’m joined by Emily Michaelis, ATC, and Allison Gardiner, ATC to spotlight the vital role athletic trainers play in injury prevention, on-field care, and return-to-play. We break down common misconceptions, discuss collaboration within the sports medicine team, and share what makes this profession so impactful. A must-listen conversation celebrating the heart and skill behind athletic training. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailThink you know PT? Think again! In this episode, physical therapist Chris Parker takes on some of the biggest myths in physical therapy—from “bone-on-bone knees shouldn’t squat” to “pain always equals damage” to “I need an MRI before starting PT.” We dive into why these misconceptions persist, how they affect patient movement and confidence, and most importantly, how PTs can educate and empower patients with clear, science-backed guidance. Get ready for a fun, eye-opening conversation that will challenge what you thought you knew about PT! Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailBone stress injuries are often misunderstood—and frequently missed. In this episode, we sit down with primary care sports medicine physician Miranda Gordon-Zigel, MD to break down what physical therapists need to know about stress reactions and stress fractures, high-risk bone sites, low energy availability/RED-S, and smart return-to-running decisions. If you work with runners or field sport athletes, this episode will sharpen your clinical radar and your rehab approach. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn honor of Lymphedema Awareness Day on March 6th, this episode shines a light on a condition that is often misunderstood and underdiagnosed. I’m joined by Jean Caldwell, who shares her personal journey living with lymphedema, and Yvonne Francis, a lymphedema specialist physical therapist, who breaks down what lymphedema is, why early detection matters, and how physical therapy plays a critical role in treatment and long-term management. Together, this conversation blends patient experience and clinical expertise to educate, empower, and raise awareness.  Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailTendon pain can be frustrating, especially when you’re told to just rest and wait it out. But what if that advice is actually slowing your progress? Today I’m joined by Amora Valencia, a sports PT resident, to bust some of the most common tendon myths. We’re talking pain versus damage, why complete rest isn’t the answer, and how properly loading tendons is often the missing piece in recovery.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn honor of Heart Health Month, I’m joined by Registered Dietitian Emily Fultz from Fit with Food to discuss how nutrition supports heart health, performance, and recovery. We break down heart-healthy fueling strategies, common nutrition fads, and why Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) matters for athletes and physical therapists. Emily also shares practical tips to help athletes in PT fuel recovery and long-term health.  How to find Emily and Fit with Food, LLC:Website: https://fitwfood.com/ instagram and facebook: @fitwithfoodllc  email: [email protected]  Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailToday we’re talking about how PTs can better support patients after a cardiac event or cardiac surgery. We’re joined by an exercise physiologist, Eric Cecil, to discuss key physiological considerations, red flags, and how to safely progress exercise for this population. No matter your setting, if you work with patients who have a cardiac history, this episode will give you practical insights to guide them forward.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailThis Heart Health Month episode brings together sports cardiologists Dr. Grant and Dr. Chukwurah for a deep dive into how cardiac health impacts athletic performance. We explore training adaptations, risk factors, return-to-play considerations after cardiac events, and what PTs should watch for during rehab. Whether you treat athletes or are one yourself, this episode delivers practical insights to keep the athletic heart safe and strong. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn Part 2, we shift from theory to application. Chris Palmer dives deeper into how physical therapists can truly help patients living with pain—breaking down practical metaphors to explain pain, strategies to validate a patient’s lived experience without reinforcing fear, and treatment ideas that align with modern pain science. This episode is all about turning understanding into action and giving clinicians tangible tools to build trust, confidence, and progress in the clinic. Please tune into last week’s episode to hear more about the foundation of this conversation!Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn Part 1 of this conversation, we sit down with physical therapist Chris Palmer to unpack how we arrived at the bio-psycho-social model of pain and why this shift matters so much in modern physical therapy. We explore the evolution of pain science—from tissue-focused explanations to a more comprehensive understanding of how biological, psychological, and social factors interact. Chris breaks down the different pain mechanisms or “buckets,” why identifying them is critical for clinical reasoning, and how therapists can begin translating complex pain science concepts into language patients actually understand. This episode lays the foundation for better assessment, communication, and care—setting the stage for a deeper clinical dive in Part 2. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailTrail and ultra runners push the limits—but subtle red flags often get missed. In this episode, we discuss the unique risks in this population, what PTs and physicians should watch for, and why early recognition is key to keeping runners healthy and performing at their best. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailPhysical therapy is rewarding—but it’s also challenging. In this episode, Bryan Caplan dives into why so many PTs are rethinking their careers, from productivity pressures and insurance battles to career pivots and cash-based models. We explore practical solutions, ways to sustain a long career, and how PTs can thrive while providing great patient care. Check out our first podcast of Season Four where Kathryn Knill takes time to define what "Burnout" really means and it's often misunderstood and misused.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailAs we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and think about how we want to show up — both personally and professionally. Joining me today is Kathryn Knill, Regional Clinical Well-Being Specialist with MedStar Health. Kathryn works closely with clinicians to support their well-being, balance, and growth, and she’s here to share insights we can all use to set meaningful goals and start the year off strong. Together, we’ll talk about what it really means to set intentions that last, how to stay grounded when life gets busy, and why self-compassion might just be the most important resolution of all.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailAs the year winds down, many healthcare providers find themselves running on empty—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The holidays can disrupt routines, magnify stress, and make it harder to prioritize our own health. In this end-of-year episode, physical therapists Brigitte Henry, Rebecca Orloski, and host Rebecca Schumer come together as members of the MedStar Health Wellness Committee to share practical, PT-informed strategies for staying healthy through the winter months. From maintaining movement and motivation during busy seasons to recognizing the early signs of the winter blues in ourselves and our colleagues, this conversation stays grounded, realistic, and relatable. This episode isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what’s sustainable, supportive, and kind as we close out the year and look ahead. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailWelcome to today’s episode, where we’re exploring the world of functional fitness and barbell training, and why it has an important place in rehab and athletic programming. We’re joined by two incredible clinicians, physical therapist, Kristin Famiglietti and  physical therapy assistant, Ashley Faller, who will guide us through everything from Olympic lifts to powerlifting, CrossFit movements, and other functional fitness modalities. Together, we’ll break down common misconceptions about barbell training, review key points of performance, discuss frequent movement faults and corrections, and importantly, talk about how to modify exercises to keep patients moving safely while recovering from injury. From post-ACL reconstruction, shoulder injuries, or low back issues, to general orthopedic or overuse injuries, barbell training — when programmed correctly — can be a powerful tool to restore strength, confidence, and function. Whether you’re a PT, coach, or athlete, this episode will give you practical strategies and expert insight to progressively load patients without fear, maintain safety, and optimize recovery.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailReturning an athlete to sport after injury isn’t just about feeling ready—it’s about proving readiness. In this episode, we sit down with physical therapists Samantha King and Andrew Douwes to dive into the world of return to play testing. They’ll break down why this testing is so critical, the different components that go into a comprehensive assessment, and how data is interpreted and communicated to athletes, coaches, and physicians. We’ll also explore how return to play testing has evolved over the years and why a collaborative approach is key to getting athletes back safely and successfully. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailCartilage injuries can be frustrating for patients and complex for clinicians. In this episode, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Wiemi Douoguih joins us to break down the latest in cartilage management—from non-operative approaches to advanced surgical techniques. We discuss how to identify which patients may benefit from surgery, what PTs should know about different procedures, and how rehab can make or break long-term outcomes. Whether you’re navigating conservative care or guiding a patient through post-op recovery, this conversation highlights the decision-making process, key red flags to watch for, and the importance of collaboration between the surgical and rehab teams. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Dr. Dreese, an orthopedic surgeon who is well versed in treating mensical injuries, to get the full picture on meniscus injuries—from the moment they happen to returning to sport and everyday life. We’ll explore both operative and non-operative treatment options, discussing when surgery is necessary and what factors influence those decisions. Dr. Dreese also shares insights into how he communicates and collaborates with physical therapists to ensure patients have a smooth and safe recovery. Whether you’re an athlete, a clinician, or just curious about knee health, this episode gives a comprehensive look at the care, decision-making, and teamwork that help patients get back to doing what they love. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailWelcome to today’s episode. We’ll be examining current best practices for the rehabilitation of meniscal injuries, both through conservative management and following surgical repair. Joining me is Stefan Rasinski, a physical therapist with extensive experience in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation. In this discussion, we’ll review the latest evidence, explore criteria for selecting non-operative versus operative pathways, and outline rehabilitation strategies that optimize outcomes and long-term joint health. Whether you’re a clinician looking to refine your approach or a student interested in evidence-based practice, this conversation will provide clear, actionable insight. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to the show! As the holidays approach, it’s the perfect time to talk about gratitude, what it really means and why it matters.  Gratitude isn’t just saying “thank you.” It’s a mindset that can improve our mood, strengthen our relationships, and help us handle life’s challenges with a little more perspective.  Today, we’re joined by one of our amazing social workers to share simple ways to practice gratitude and stay grounded throughout the holiday season.  Let’s dive in and explore how a little gratitude can go a long way.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailToday we have an incredible guest joining us, Dr. Farrelly, a incredible orthopedic trauma surgeon with extensive experience in treating limb-threatening injuries. In this episode, we’ll explore the complexities of these serious injuries, from initial assessment and surgical interventions to the vital role physical therapists play in the recovery process. Dr. Farrelly will share her insights on the challenges faced during treatment, the latest advancements in orthopedic care, and how we can work collaboratively to help athletes return to their beloved sports. So, whether you’re a seasoned physical therapist, a student, or just someone interested in the world of sports medicine, you won’t want to miss this enlightening conversation.Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailToday, we’re tackling early sport specialization—when kids focus on one sport too soon—and the risks that come with it. Joining me are Dr. Hinton an orthopedic surgeon who treats these injuries every day, and Caitlin Kelley from USA Lacrosse, who’s helping shape safer, smarter youth sports. Athletes who specialize early are up to twice as likely to suffer overuse injuries, yet less than 2% of college athletes ever go pro. The risks are real, and the payoff is rare. Let’s dive into what’s really happening and how we can protect young athletes. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it takes to keep the Baltimore Ravens cheer team performing at the top of their game. Joining me are three key members of their sports performance team—an athletic trainer, a physical therapist, and a strength coach—who each bring their own expertise to the table. Together, we’ll explore how they support these athletes through injury prevention, recovery, and performance training. From navigating concussions and ensuring safe return to play, to breaking down the importance of warm-ups and proper stunting mechanics, this conversation highlights the teamwork and science that fuel success in professional cheer. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailPlease be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn today’s episode, we’re talking all things mentorship with Emily Bokow and Chris Palmer, two incredible mentors in our network. We’ll explore why mentorship is so valuable, how to be an active adult learner, and how these relationships can shape your growth as a physical therapist. Whether you’re a new grad or a seasoned clinician, this conversation is packed with insights to take your practice to the next level. Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we’re joined by Daniel Hague and Miriam Bovich, two sports physical therapists and proud graduates of the MedStar Health Sports Residency Program, to break it all down. They share what the residency experience is really like, how it helped shape their clinical careers, and what future applicants should know. We’ll cover: What to expect from a sports residency How to prepare and apply A look inside the MedStar Health Sports Residency Key lessons and growth moments Tips for anyone thinking about taking this path Whether you're curious about sports residency or seriously considering it, this episode is a must-listen. RFPTCAS: https://rfptcas.cas.myliaison.com/applicant-ux/#/login Our Residency: https://www.medstarhealth.org/education/other-educational-programs/medstar-health-physical-therapy-sports-residency-program Email inquiries: [email protected] Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!