In this episode, we tune into the audio from a special webinar from the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation (MDF) about exercise for people with Myotonic Dystrophy (DM). Join Dr. Andy Rohrwasser- MDF Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Donovan Lott- a PT and PhD at University of Florida and specialist in muscular dystrophy, and cardiologist Dr. Matt Wheeler as they explore the latest research on movement and exercise in this population. Stay tuned for a Q&A at the end as the experts answer questions from the DM community.  



A special thank you to the Myotonic Dystrophy for sharing this content with our special interest group! For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com. 



See the full webinar video here: https://www.myotonic.org/digital-academy/stump-doctor-exercise-dm-2025-myotonic-dystrophy-motion-awareness-month 



Access the MDF Exercise Guide here:  https://www.myotonic.org/sites/default/files/pages/files/MDF_Exercise-Guide-for-the-Community_1_21.pdf 



For a quick look, check out the MDF’s Infographic on Exercise: https://www.myotonic.org/sites/default/files/2024-07/MDF_Exercising-with-Myotonic-Dystrophy_Infographic.pdf 



Show notes available: https://app.box.com/s/yhuzygfl6ekyv7trw832f89w37g6izxs

In this episode, host Parm Padgett interviews Dr. Sarah Milne about different rehabilitation strategies for physical therapists working with people with degenerative cerebellar ataxias. Dr. Milne shares results from her clinical trials, as well as tips and treatment approaches from her time in Friedreich Ataxia Clinic.  If you’re curious about components of effective rehabilitation for degenerative ataxias, this episode is for you! 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com. 



Show notes available at: https://app.box.com/s/1c3b6g4jgih64skasv1kxrwg3gji9nko

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco talks with guests Andrew Rosen and Ashley Durando to discuss the National Ataxia Foundation mission and resources.The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy ofNeurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.orgFor questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.Guest InformationAndrew Rosen, CEO of the National Ataxia FoundationAshley Dorundo, PT, DPT, DD SIG Liaison to the National Ataxia FoundationResources from the NAFhttps://www.ataxia.org/763-553-0020naf@ataxia.orgCenters of Excellence: https://www.ataxia.org/ace/No-cost genetic testing program: https://www.ataxia.org/genetics/Support Groups: https://www.ataxia.org/support-groups/NAF Events: https://www.ataxia.org/events/Health Care Provider Resources: https://www.ataxia.org/provider-resources/Fact sheets: https://www.ataxia.org/fact-sheets/Exercise videos: https://www.ataxia.org/exercise/General references: https://www.ataxia.org/general-references/Citation: Rosen A, Dorundo A, Vinacco K. DD SIG Navigating the Path Episode 5: The National Ataxia Foundation. 4D: Deep Dive Into Degenerative Diseases, a podcast of the ANPTDegenerative Diseases Special Interest Group. Published 07/31/2025.https://podcasts.neuropt.org/?p=1985This is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute forclinical decision making. The Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy and its collaborators disclaim any liability to any party for any loss or damage by errors or omissions in this publication. The views or opinions expressed are those of the individual creators and do not necessarily represent the position of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy.

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco talks with guest Gia Mannone to discuss the resources that the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA www.hdsa.org ) offers for people with HD. Gia discusses events, ways to find specialized medical care, and education for people with HD in all stages of the disease. If you treat people with HD, you’ll likely find something new to share after a listen!  



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.



Show notes available: https://app.box.com/s/87w9nzdiaqqyo937ibcgc392hifagq8m

This episode of 4D highlights results and implications from an article in the July 2025 Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy special issue on walking in people with neurological health conditions. Host Parm Padgett interviews two authors, Michael (Mike) VanNostrand and Patrick (Paddy) Monaghan, about their recent study examining the role of proprioception in backward walking in people with multiple sclerosis, as well as previous work related to backward walking. If you’re curious about how to interpret backwards walking and incorporate it into your clinical practice, this episode is for you!   



Show notes available: https://app.box.com/s/0om94igfagb23nzm8v7ck18gx3mkj5l7  



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.  

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco interviews Franchino Porciuncula, the winner of the DDSIG platform award at CSM 2025 in Houston, TX. They discuss his research related to utilizing closed-loop, music-based rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) with people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). They review the impact on real-world walking and gait quality, as well as participant feedback. He discusses ways to integrate use of RAS in clinic, highlighting both the complex nature of PD and challenges and limitations observed in this randomized clinical trial.  



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org







Show notes: https://app.box.com/s/yqos32rt9wf5ofdshnsiwedxh8ftny7i

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco sits down with guests Lauren LaMar and Kyle Vasher to discuss the range of resources that the ALS Association offers for people with ALS. Lauren shares her role in the multidisciplinary clinic as well as the range of online, local and one-on-one support services offered for patients and caregivers. Kyle adds his input as a DD SIG liaison and treating therapist. Filled with great advice, perspective and practical resources to share with patients, this is a helpful listen for PTs treating patients with ALS.  



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.  



Resources from the ALS Association 



Medicare information: https://www.als.org/navigating-als/financial-information/medicare-information 



Caregiver education and support groups: https://www.als.org/navigating-als/support-for-caregivers  



Care Matters newsletter: https://www.als.org/care-matters-sign-up  



Multidisciplinary clinic locator: https://www.als.org/support/certified-centers-clinics 



Education for healthcare professionals: https://www.als.org/navigating-als/education-healthcare-professionals 



     - Rehabilitative Care for ALS: Guidance for PTs and OTs: https://app.schoox.com/login.php?courseId=8207995  



Printed materials: https://www.als.org/order-portal  



Transfer technique videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6QI9CQO63I&list=PL2RF9Bwbv6Com3nZM-jFh_EGl3Gmn6S43 



Virtual home modification and safety assessment program: https://www.als.org/support/programs/virtual-home-modification-and-safety-assessment-program  



ALS Insurance Navigator https://www.als.org/support/als-insurance-navigator 



ALS Advocacy Team https://www.als.org/advocacy/action-center  



Show notes: https://app.box.com/s/q45h3p0fsgiuzluwxtzajnupp5hyofr2

In this insightful episode, host Parm Padgett sits down with Dr. Alice Nieuwboer, a leading expert in Parkinson’s rehabilitation, to unpack the complex and frustrating phenomenon of freezing of gait (FOG). From the role of dopamine loss and neural "overload" to the influence of stress, motor challenges, and cognitive demands, Dr. Nieuwboer explains what we know about the factors influencing FOG. She also shares the latest research on freezing subtypes, how medication impacts symptoms, and why defining FOG remains a moving target. Full of clinical pearls and research updates, this conversation offers fresh hope and practical strategies for therapists and clinicians navigating the challenges treating people with FOG.  



Show notes available: https://app.box.com/s/gcyeiq1xk326ltqxj6zgemlfqtkgoooa  



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco sits down with special guest Donna Sperlakis to explore the wide range of resources and support services offered by the Parkinson’s Foundation. Together, they dive into the educational tools, community programs, and research initiatives designed to empower individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their families. Donna shares personal insights and expert advice on how to access these resources and make the most of the resources offered. This conversation provides valuable information and encouragement for everyone touched by Parkinson’s. 



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.orgFor questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.



Show notes available here: https://app.box.com/s/a97fdclbbznlsqti6uhvh01ctwlnykly

Tune in to the first episode of our new series, Navigating the Path: Resources for Patients with Neurodegenerative Diseases, which highlights organizations that provide resources and information to people with neurodegenerative diseases. In this episode, Lauren Corley, a National MS Society representative, joins our host Christina Burke to explore the many resources and programs offered by the society. From financial assistance for assistive devices to continuing education opportunities for clinicians, learn how the National MS Society is making a meaningful impact in the MS community. They are both joined by Gregory Brusola, a board member of the DD SIG and coordinator of the DD SIG liaison program, who discusses the role of DD SIG liaisons and connections for PTs with the National MS Society. 



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com. 



Show notes available



Visit the National MS Society website for more information on their programs 

In this episode, Parm interviews Lisa Inglis, the winner of the DDSIG poster award at CSM 2025 in Houston. Lisa, a PT and professor at Daemen college, explains her research related to measuring backward walking and comparing backward walking characteristics of people with and without Parkinson’s Disease (PD). She goes on to discuss potential uses of backward gait assessment in PT practice.  



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org



Show notes available here

Join our podcast team members, Sara Zoeller and Parm Padgett, as they discuss the in-person and on-demand degenerative diseases programming (and some DD-adjacent talks) at this year’s CSM in Houston, TX. This podcast highlights talks and authors to help you plan your best CSM experience, complete with fun haikus and a CSM song at the very end of the bloopers - listen for that! The DD SIG committee and members of the 4D podcast team will be visible at the poster session on Friday from 1-3 pm and at the Myelin Melter on Friday evening. Please come find us and introduce yourself, we'd love to hear your ideas for our podcast (comments, future topics, etc). Happy CSM! 



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.



Show notes available at: https://app.box.com/s/9zeyy65ft2pdksilfh28orw5dworu6vu

In this episode, host Parm Padgett is joined by Miriam Rafferty and Monica Hendricksen from Shirley Ryan Ability Lab to explore the impact of current care models on individuals with neurologic conditions. Together, they delve into the opportunities and challenges of adopting innovative approaches to care and examine how these models can improve outcomes and transform practice. They take the discussion from theory to practice by reviewing a recent case series applying a consultative, proactive model of PT for people with MS.  Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of neurologic care and the practical steps to implement these models of care in your practice. 



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.



Show notes: https://app.box.com/s/vrfnib0mg981h0smaxbkhgh4ebqk9887

In this episode, host Parm Padgett welcomes Taylor Takla to discuss her article, "Motor and Non-Motor Factors of Concern About Falling and Fear of Falling in Multiple Sclerosis” published in the October 2024 issue of JNPT. Taylor’s research delves into the complexities behind fear of falling and contributing factors among individuals with MS. Join the conversation to explore the clinical implications of her findings and how they can influence therapy approaches for those living with MS. 



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.



Show notes available at: https://app.box.com/s/95du2gsslgm6xl0pzyitqv3zrpwpxybc

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco talks to guest Kristina Vaughn to discuss the role of physical therapists working with individuals with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). NPH is a condition that leads to excess accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in ventricles of the brain. This  can lead to gait abnormalities, cognitive changes, and urinary incontinence. Ken and Kristina discuss how to differentiate from other neurologic diagnoses and what PTs can do to in the clinic or as a member of a multi-disciplinary NPH clinic team. 



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.



Show notes available: https://app.box.com/s/zzlyovhljhzm6qscq11lrfbp9v8z40ev

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco talks with Bobby Hand about the role and intricacies of skilled maintenance therapy for individuals with degenerative diseases. Skilled maintenance therapy is the care that physical therapists can provide to individuals who have conditions with no curative treatment. Bobby and Ken delve into how PTs can provide therapy that impacts the individual’s quality of life, even when they are not expected to make improvements. Bobby shares examples from his clinical practice, and tips for making it work for your practice.   



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com  



Show notes available here: https://app.box.com/s/h12shsaxu8lpaaxabxk798qd96rpud41

In this special episode, our podcast team interviewed listeners and former guests at CSM 2024 to find out what they were excited about doing when treating people with neurodegenerative conditions. We are excited to share their answers with you, along with some commentary from our current team, as a celebration of our 50th episode.  



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org



Please send comments or questions on this podcast to neuroddsig@gmail.com. 

In this installment of our series on rare neurologic diseases, host Ken Vinacco talks with Claudia Senesac about physical therapy for people with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD). DMD and BMD are both disorders that cause progressive muscle weakness, with BMD often presenting with less severe weakness and later in life. Claudia covers the medical management and prognosis, PT assessment, and PT treatment for people with these unique diagnoses. 



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 



A link to the show notes will be posted here when available

In this installment of our series on rare neurologic diseases, Ken Vinnaco talks with Megan Iammarino about physical therapy for people with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (LGMD), an umbrella term that encompasses a varied group of disorders affecting the proximal muscles around the shoulders and hips that impacts approximately 2 in every 100,000 people. Megan covers the assessment, PT treatment and prognosis for people with this unique diagnosis that causes significant balance and gait challenges.  



Show notes available here : https://www.neuropt.org/docs/default-source/degenerative-diseases-sig/4d-podcast-show-notes---2019/ddsig-podcast-show-notes-2023/show-notes---episode-48-megan-iammarino-lgmd.pdf



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org

In this episode, Chris interviews Michelle Walaszek, a winner of the DDSIG platform award at CSM Boston in 2024. Michelle, a PhD candidate and research associate in the Knowledge Translation of Exercise and Activity for Symptom Management (KTEAM) lab at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, explains important qualitative research that her team completed in their local Chicagoland area. She discusses themes that arose from survey data and analysis that assessed attitudes and experience with PD rehabilitation care for the Black or African American (BAA) community. Chris and Michelle also talk about some early applications of this information for clinicians, as well as next steps in the research.  



The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org