Send us a text Today, 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.&...

Send us a text In 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 s...

Send us a text Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Send us a text In 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...

Send us a text In 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 K...

Send us a text October is both Physical Therapy Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and today’s episode honors both. I’m joined by Samantha King, a physical therapist and breast cancer survivor, who courageously shares her journey to raise awareness about the importance of early detection. Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women, but when it’s found early, the five-year survival rate is about 99% — a powerful reminder to stay proactive about screenings. Samantha, thank you for sha...

Send us a text In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we sit down with Val Mulryne, PT, DPT, CLT, ATC, Dave Federline, OT/L, CLT, and Catherine Brophy, RN, BSN, CBCN to discuss how physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nursing work together to support patients through every stage of their breast cancer journey. From regaining strength and mobility to navigating emotional and physical challenges, they share how a team-based approach helps patients heal and thrive. If you're lis...

Send us a text In physical therapy, we often focus on helping people heal physically, but true health includes the mind and body. Today, we’re joined by PA Alexandra Walker for an open and important conversation about suicide prevention. We’ll talk about the myths that surround suicide, how to recognize red flags in our patients, and how we can better support not only those we treat, but also our coworkers and colleagues. This discussion is about giving PTs practical tools and confidence to s...

Send us a text Clinic culture shapes everything — from how teams work together to the care patients receive. In this episode, I talk with physical therapists Kim Agan and Kristin Famiglietti about what makes a strong clinic culture, why it matters, and how to overcome challenges that can get in the way. From communication and conflict resolution to leadership and team morale, we’ll cover practical strategies and real-world experiences to help you create a thriving, supportive clinic env...

Send us a text On today’s episode, we’re flipping the script. My guest started his journey on the other side of the table—as a physical therapy patient. What began as an experience in rehab turned into inspiration for a career, and now he’s thriving as a PT student. We’ll talk about what it’s like to go from being guided through exercises to learning how to guide others, how his patient perspective shapes the way he sees the profession, and the fun, lighthearted moments he’s experienced along...

Send us a text Welcome back to the podcast! In today’s episode, we’re sitting down with two third-year Doctor of Physical Therapy students from Marymount University—Sydney Wertz and Jon Dosso. They’re here to give us a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to be in PT school. From the ups and downs of the application process to the daily grind of classes, clinicals, and balancing life outside of school, Sydney and Jon share honest reflections, lessons learned, and what’s kept them m...

Send us a text Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s essential for athletes of all ages but often misunderstood—the pre-participation physical exam, or PPE. Whether you’re gearing up for a new sports season or supporting athletes as a parent, coach, or provider, understanding what goes into this process is critical. We’re joined by Dr. Kelly Ryan, a leading sports medicine physician, and Jenna Page, an experienced athletic trainer who plays a key role in these exams from the front lin...

Send us a text In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by Molly Cupka, the president of Up ENDing Parkinson’s—an inspiring program that’s redefining what’s possible for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Through the power of rock climbing, Up ENDing Parkinson’s is helping people challenge their limits, build strength and confidence, and connect with others in a supportive, uplifting environment. Rock climbing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think...

Send us a text In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at how occupational therapy supports individuals living with Parkinson’s disease—not just in the clinic, but in their day-to-day lives. We’re joined by Charlene Foote, a skilled occupational therapist who specializes in neurorehabilitation. Charlene shares how she helps patients manage daily activities impacted by Parkinson’s, from dressing and cooking to handwriting and energy conservation. We’ll explore practical interventions...

Send us a text Today’s episode packs a punch—literally. We’re diving into a powerful and inspiring approach to treating Parkinson’s disease: Rock Steady Boxing. This isn’t your typical therapy session. It’s high-energy, movement-focused, and built around the idea that fighting back against Parkinson’s starts with grit, community, and a whole lot of sweat. Joining us is Lauren Ayers, PTA, a passionate and experienced physical therapist assistant who leads Rock Steady classes and works cl...

Send us a text Today we’re continuing with our Parkinson's series and we’re focusing on the critical role of speech-language pathology in the management of Parkinson’s disease. Joining us is Eileen Carden, a licensed speech-language pathologist with extensive experience working with individuals living with Parkinson’s. In this episode, Eileen breaks down the impact Parkinson’s can have on speech, voice, and swallowing—and how evidence-based interventions like LSVT LOUD and SPEAK OUT!®ca...

Send us a text I’m joined by Jen McDivitt, PT, an experienced physical therapist who works closely with individuals living with Parkinson’s. Jen brings both clinical expertise and deep compassion to her practice, and in this episode, she shares what it’s really like to work with this population. We’ll talk about the unique challenges Parkinson’s presents, how PT can make a difference at every stage of the disease, and the strategies Jen uses to empower her patients through movemen...

Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Volkell, Director of Movement Disorders in the Division of Neurology at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, to take a comprehensive look at Parkinson’s disease through the lens of medical management and collaborative care. Dr. Volkell breaks down what Parkinson’s is, how it’s diagnosed, and why early interdisciplinary intervention—especially from rehab professionals like PTs, OTs, and speech therapists—is critical. We explore comm...

Send us a text In today’s episode, we’re tackling a critical topic that affects athletes, coaches, and anyone active outdoors—heat illness. Joining us is Dr. Sedgley, a seasoned sports medicine physician with extensive experience treating heat-related conditions. Heat illness can range from mild symptoms like cramps and dizziness to life-threatening emergencies such as heat stroke. Understanding the signs, knowing when to act, and learning how to prepare are essential for staying safe a...

Send us a text Whether you’re pounding the pavement, hitting the trails, or just trying to find the right pair of shoes for everyday movement—this episode is for you. Today, we’re joined by Brian Nasuta from Charm City Run, a true shoe expert with years of experience helping runners and walkers find their perfect fit. We dive into the differences between running and walking shoes, how to choose the right type for your gait, what all those foams and tech features really mean, and common mistak...