4D: Deep Dive into Degenerative Diseases - ANPT

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.   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  

In this episode, Parm interviews Chelsea “CJ” Duppen, a winner of the DDSIG platform award at CSM Boston in 2024. CJ, a fourth year PhD student at the University of North Carolina, works with Dr. Mike Lewek in the Recovery of Gait and Neurorehabilitation (ReGaiN) lab, studying gait and gait initiation impairments in people living with Parkinson Disease, as well as motor learning. Parm and CJ discuss CJ's poster, “Gait Initiation Dynamics in Parkinson Disease: Impact of Weight Shift Amplitude and Freezing of Gait.” CJ tell us about the importance of anticipatory postural adjustments for weight shifts required in gait initiation, and how these play a role in first step length. Have you ever wondered if better weight shift improved someone with PD's first step? Listen in to learn more!   The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org  

In this episode, Chris Burke interviews Kayla Chomko who, along with Jen Canbeck, Lauren Tabor Gray, and Rania Massad, won the DDSIG Best Poster Award at APTA's Combined Sections Meeting in February 2024.  Chris and Kayla discuss her team's poster, “The Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment Discriminates between Fallers and Non-Fallers in pALS: A Retrospective Study”. They delve into the impetus for and findings from their research, how Kayla utilizes data from outcome measures to facilitate patient discussions in clinic, and what direction future research may take.   The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org  Are you a PT who works with this population? Participate in a national survey on outcome measures for Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants working with pALS (Link active as of April 2024): https://redcap.nova.edu/redcap/surveys/?s=JKYLEC3KC9RFK7WF 

In this episode of 4D, hosts Parm Padgett and 4D student intern Shannon Brown talk through the degenerative disease programming scheduled for CSM 2024. If you're going to CSM this February, tune in while you travel, or even while you commute from your hotel in the morning to get some inspiration for what to see each day. We at 4D hope to see you there!   The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy –www.neuroPT.org      Learn more about CSM and the programming discussed by visiting the CSM website: https://www.apta.org/csm    This is for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for clinical 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 installment of our series on rare neurologic diseases, Christina Burke talks with Jeannie Stephenson and Staci Shearin about Friedreich's Ataxia, a progressive, autosomal recessive hereditary multi-system neurodegenerative disease that impacts approximately 1 in 40,000 people in the U.S. Jeannie and Staci cover assessment, PT treatment and prognosis for people with this unique diagnosis that causes significant balance and gait challenges.   The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 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-47-jeannie-stephenson-staci-shearin.pdf

In this installment of our series on rare neurologic diseases, Ken Vinacco talks with Carolyn DaSilva about post-polio syndrome (PPS), which can occur in polio survivors 15-20 years after the initial poliomyelitis infection. The constellation of symptoms include new or worsening weakness, pain, and fatigue. Ken and Carolyn also discuss bracing and exercise recommendations in this population.  Listen in to learn more about this unique population! The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 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-46-carolyn-dasilva.pdf

In this second installment of our series on rare neurologic diseases, host Katy McGraw talks with Heather Cianci about Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), a neurologic disease that can mimic some features of Parkinson Disease (PD) like loss of balance and a tendency to fall backwards, but that also has unique features such as the loss of vertical gaze, and behavioral changes. Heather discusses clinical signs to look for to treat and/or refer out for. She also talks extensively about treating PSP clinically throughout the disease course, palliative care for patients with advanced PSP, working within interdisciplinary teams to support patients with PSP, and so much more.   Enjoying our new series on rare neurologic diseases? We want to hear from you! Give us feedback, share ideas for future podcasts, and connect us to expert clinicians treating patients with those diseases. Email us at: neuroddsig@gmail.com  The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org  Show notes available: https://app.box.com/s/59dhwr9i0p29p4hrkxjnvbdyxl8kh94m

In this first installment of our series on rare neurologic diseases, host Jeff Schmidt talks with Kyle Reedy about Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Kyle discusses the etiology and clinical presentation of this disease, as well as best practices for treating patients living with this rare neuromuscular disease, in light of medical advances that have improved patient prognosis. From using SMA-specific outcome measures to advocate for patients to insurance companies, to designing comprehensive and tailored interventions to optimize function and mobility long term, Kyle delves into the research and interdisciplinary best practices for management of patients with SMA.The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy ofNeurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org

In this episode, host Parm Padgett talks with Mike Lewek and CJ Duppen from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill about using implicit and explicit motor learning techniques with people with Parkinson Disease. CJ and Mike do a deep dive into their research on the integration of targeted rhythmic auditory cueing to improve step length and gait speed. Additionally, they discuss their current work looking at the effects of cueing on gait initiation, step length and step speed, and weight shifting for better anticipatory postural adjustments, all aimed at positively impacting PD symptom progression and mitigating fall risk. The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 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_episode43.pdf

In this episode, we talk with Jake Sosnoff, Ph.D. about frailty in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). We cover how frailty is defined in geriatrics and how that definition applies to frailty seen in MS, as well as how clinicians can use evidence-based tools to characterize frailty in their patients with MS. Host Herb Karpatkin also talks with Jake about whether frailty in MS is modifiable; how clinicians can approach treating patients with MS and frailty based on the available evidence; and why taking a multicomponent, interdisciplinary approach to treating frailty in patients with MS is important.  The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 

In this episode, we talk with Mike Studer about intervention and treatment strategies related to fear-avoidance behaviors (as introduced in part 1/episode 40 with Ryan Duncan and Merrill Landers). Host Chris Burke talks with Mike about using autonomy-building strategies to reduce fear and exposure therapy strategies. They also delve into behavior change strategies including tips from the field of behavioral economics. Chris and Mike work through a case application together to help listeners start thinking about how to apply these principles in their own practice to reduce the impact of fear avoidance on physical activity and function.   The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org  Show notes available: https://app.box.com/s/l82oqi3u87tvkmofst3pj335m11yr29s

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Merrill Landers and Dr. Ryan Duncan about their presentation at APTA's CSM 2023, entitled “Mind Over Movement: Fear-Avoidance Behaviors Impacting Movement and Participation in Parkinson's Disease.” Host Chris Burke talks with Merrill and Ryan about different types of fears and fear-avoidance cycles that have been studied in individuals diagnosed with Parkinson Disease, but likely also extend to other neurologic and neurodegenerative conditions. Fear of falling, fear of pain, fear of stigma, fear of progression and fear of incontinence are all covered, as well as PTs' unique roles in identifying fears, referring for treatment, and addressing behaviors when appropriate. Listen in to this lively duo to hear how we can be more aware of these factors and modify our care to allow patients to be as active as possible. The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Alicia Flach, who was awarded the DD SIG 2023 Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) best poster award for her poster entitled “Education and Exercise Support for Individuals Newly Diagnosed with Parkinson Disease and Their Care Partners”. She and her team created educational modules and promoted self-driven exercise habits through local YMCA membership for both persons diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and their care partners. Host Chris Burke and Alicia discuss program outcomes, including participation at the gym, overall physical activity and perceived social support. Listen in to learn more about this innovative program targeting more inclusion of care partners in physical activity and education. The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org Show notes available: https://app.box.com/s/b80eld2lxj65brgrb8e7yd95vdgrk931

In this episode, host Jeffrey Schmidt talks with Dr. Mark Mañago, who won this year's DD SIG CSM platform award year.. Dr. Mañago chats with us about his recent presentation at CSM entitled “Feasibility of Low-Load Resistance Training with Blood Flow Restriction for People with Severe Multiple Sclerosis”. While traditionally considered a musculoskeletal intervention, he discusses the benefits blood flow restriction (BFR) can bring to the world of neurologic diagnoses, especially for those with more severe weakness. We review the results of this pilot study, including the feasibility of this intervention in regards to adherence, patient outcomes, and patient satisfaction. Tune in to hear more about this emerging intervention. The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org

In this episode, Katy talks with Dr. Andrew Guccione and Dr. Andrew Pechstein about their article published in the April 2023 issue of JNPT entitled “Walking Endurance and Oxygen Uptake on Kinetics in Individuals with Parkinson Disease Following Overground Locomotor Training.” “Dr. G” and Dr. Pechstein discuss cardiorespiratory aspects of locomotor training and how bioenergetic factors play a role in walking endurance. Tune in to hear more, including how they designed their exercise protocol, selected outcomes, and clinical implications of considering cardiorespiratory endurance when evaluating patients.  The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org

In this bonus episode of 4D, we talk with Herb Karpatkin, a DD SIG officer who serves on the Nominating Committee, about one of the DD SIG's newest features, the clinician locator map. Host and DD SIG chair Rebecca Martin talks with Dr. Karpatkin about his recent initiative to improve and simplify access to physical therapists who specialize in degenerative neurologic diseases. Learn more about how to access this resource and how to add your information to our map! The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy –www.neuroPT.org  Clinician Locator Map Info Page: https://www.neuropt.org/special-interest-groups/degenerative-diseases/ddsig-clinician-locator-map

In this episode of 4D, hosts Parm Padgett and Ken Vinacco give us the inside scoop on the degenerative disease representation in the 2023 CSM line up. Hear clips/sneak peeks from several of the speakers about their upcoming presentations. With so many must-see talks, you're going to want to listen in to get a head start on planning your time at CSM! The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy –www.neuroPT.org Link to show notes: https://app.box.com/s/q985x9cqbqky4qai4ci5thw21lvghgrs

In this bonus episode, physical therapy students, Emily Buggeln and Colleen Noonan interview Daniel Corcos on resistance training for persons with Parkinson Disease. This interview was organized by the knowledge translation task force for the clinical practice guideline for the physical therapist management of people with Parkinson disease. For more resources, check out their webpage at https://www.neuropt.org/practice-resources/anpt-clinical-practice-guidelines/pt-management-of-parkinson-disease   The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy –www.neuroPT.org.  

In this episode of 4D, we talk with Dr. Colin Grove about his recent ANPT poster presentation from the International Conference for Vestibular Rehabilitation entitled “People Living with Advanced Multiple Sclerosis Demonstrate Unique Strategies to Compensate for Vestibular-Ocular Reflex Deficits”. Host Chris Burke talks with Colin about what constitutes gaze stability, and how the vestibular-ocular reflex can be altered in patients with MS with reports of imbalance and dizziness. Colin and Chris also discuss implications for treatment and future research directions related to vestibular impairment in people with MS. The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy –www.neuroPT.org Show notes available at: https://app.box.com/s/mys3qixxiuvl3gwoyc0m71a0mprysb9h

In this episode of 4D, Parm talks with Dr. Alexis Drutchas and Dr. Jaclyn Shameklis about creating open conversations with patients who have illnesses that can have drastic and lasting impacts on their lives. We discuss the Serious Illness Conversation Guide, and how it can be applied in a physical therapy setting, especially for patients with degenerative diseases. They build a case that having these conversations, early and often, allows health care providers to get to the root of what is important to patients and make the best recommendations in their area of expertise. We hope this podcast helps listeners think differently about and feel more confident when discussing prognosis and goals with patients with neurodegenerative conditions.  Show notes available here: https://neuropt.org/docs/default-source/degenerative-diseases-sig/4d-podcast-show-notes---2019/4d-episode-35-with-alexis-druchas-and-jaclyn-shameklis.pdf?Status=Temp&sfvrsn=46c15d43_2 Access the Serious Illness Conversation Guide here:  https://mghcontinuumproject.org/app/uploads/2022/08/MGH_SIC-Guide_May2022.pdf

In this episode of 4D, we talk with Dr. Nora Fritz about her expansive research in the field of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) rehabilitation. Dr. Fritz talks with host Katy McGraw about her research on the relationship between backward walking velocity and falls, and the effects of cerebellar involvement on the motor and cognitive function in people with MS. Tune in to learn more about what PTs can be assessing and addressing to best serve the MS patient population. The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org   Show notes - https://www.neuropt.org/docs/default-source/degenerative-diseases-sig/4d-episode-34-with-nora-fritz.pdf

In this episode of 4D, we talk with Dr. Debbie Backus from the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, GA and Dr. Laura Rice from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign about their abundance of research in fall risk and fall prevention for wheelchair users with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Host Chris Burke talks with our guests about what risk factors clinicians should be on the lookout for, what outcome measures to consider, and evidence based intervention strategies for this population. Tune in to learn more from the experts on how to reduce fall risk and optimize function in this unique population.  The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy –www.neuroPT.org  Show notes: https://www.neuropt.org/docs/default-source/degenerative-diseases-sig/ddsig-episode-33.pdf

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Catherine Lang and Dr. Carey Holleran from Washington University in St. Louis about their article scheduled for publication in the January 2023 issue of JNPT titled “Improvement in the Capacity for Activity Versus Improvement in Performance of Activity in Daily Life During Outpatient Rehabilitation.” Dr. Lang and Dr. Holleran discuss the difference between patients' capacity in the clinic and their functional performance outside of the clinical setting. In this multi-site trial, they compared performance and capacity measures for patients with Parkinson disease and stroke, measuring upper limb and lower limb function. Tune in to hear more about their statistical analysis, selection of outcomes, and clinical implications of considering performance when evaluating patients, setting goals, and measuring progress.  The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org  Show notes available at: https://www.neuropt.org/docs/default-source/degenerative-diseases-sig/ddsig-episode-32.pdf 

Note to listeners: We want to hear from you! We value listener feedback and are always working to improve our podcast. Share your 4D podcast feedback with us here: https://forms.gle/NKAC5Lob5rxpZ3459    In this special 3-year anniversary episode of 4D, host Parm Padgett and DDSIG secretary and podcast editor Sara Zoeller dive into the world of neuro-rehab and the pet peeves that come along with it. From terminology to exercise intensity to balance, we hear from previous guests and board members about what they are itching to correct in neuro PT practice. Join us with special guests Anne Kloos, Jeannie Stephenson, Herb Karpatkin, Lori Quinn, Vanina Dal Bello-Hass, Judy Deutsch, Alicia Flach, Amy Yorke, and Julie Hershberg as they share their personal pet peeves when it comes to neuro rehabilitation.   The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org.  Show notes  To learn more about the Moving Forward/Evidence Elevates Task force, check out their site on the ANPT website here: https://neuropt.org/practice-resources/best-practice-initiatives-and-resources/moving-forward  Guests  Vanina Dal Bello-Haas PT, PhD  Judy Deutsch PT, PhD  Alicia Flach PT, DPT  Julie Hershberg PT, DPT  Herb Karpatkin PT, DSc  Anne Kloos PT, PhD  Lori Quinn PT, EdD  Jeannie Stephenson PT, PhD  Amy Yorke PT, PhD 

In this episode, physical therapist and clinician, Jonathan Kinzinger, shares his story of finding evidence that he could apply to practice. Resources such as the Clinical Practice Guidelines for the core outcome measures and locomotor training inspired him to change practice. He is now embarking on systematic change.   For more information on the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy and the Evidence Elevates campaign visit www.neuropt.org.

In this episode, we highlight one of the winners of our poster awards at CSM 2022. Lindsay Fitchett talks to Chris Burke about her group's systematic review of wearable sensors assessing balance and mobility in people with PD. They discuss themes from the review including differentiating PIGD and tremor-dominant subtypes, looking at fall risk, assessing movement strategies/transfers, and sensor-based interventions. They also discuss potential future avenues for sensors in rehab.  The Degenerative Disease Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org 

In this episode, we highlight one of the winners of our poster awards at CSM 2022. Jason Longhurst talks to Katy McGraw about his research on gait characteristics in people with PD. His research looks at data from people without freezing, people with freezing on initiation, and people with non-initiation-type freezing. He discusses the role of gait variability in clinical presentation and expands on how this research might inform PT intervention and make interventions more specific to patients with different presentations in the future.  The Degenerative Disease Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org  Guest information:  Jason Longhurst Ph.D., PT, DPT, NCS  Assistant Professor St. Louis University  Related Articles   Ziegler K, Schroeteler F, Ceballos-Baumann AO, Fietzek UM. A new rating instrument to assess festination and freezing gait in Parkinsonian patients. Mov Disord. 2010 Jun 15;25(8):1012-8. doi: 10.1002/mds.22993. PMID: 20310009. 

Description: In this episode, we highlight the winners of our platform award at CSM 2022. Lori Quinn talks to Chris Burke about her team's research on long-term PT follow up to promote exercise in people with HD. They discuss findings related to feasibility, participant engagement, and outcomes related to function, disease progress and physical activity during the year-long study. They also discuss innovative models to provide care for and do research with people with HD, and unique challenges in the HD population. Whether you missed it at CSM or are looking for bonus clinical insights beyond the platform, this is definitely worth a listen!  The Degenerative Disease Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org   Guest Information:   Lori Quinn, PT, EdD  Associate Professor of Movement Science & Kinesiology  Teachers College, Columbia University  Related Information/Links   Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA): https://hdsa.org/  European HD Network: http://www.ehdn.org/   ENGAGE-HD workbook: http://www.ehdn.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/ENGAGE-HD-Physical-Activity-Workbook-v2-UK.pdf   PT/Exercise Resources: http://www.ehdn.org/physiotherapy-wg/#physioresources   Enroll-HD: https://www.enroll-hd.org/   HD PRO-TRIAD: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3990832/ (Carlozzi NE, Victorson D, Sung V, et al. HD-PRO-TRIAD™ Validation: A Patient-reported Instrument for the Symptom Triad of Huntington's Disease. Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y). 2014;4:223. Published 2014 Apr 14. doi:10.7916/D8PN93NZ)  Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale (UHDRS) https://www.sralab.org/rehabilitation-measures/unified-huntingtons-disease-rating-scale-uhdrs-tm 

Strategies to Advance Practice – with Elissa Held Bradford In this episode, we highlight the article “Health Promotion and Wellness in Neurologic Physical Therapy: Strategies to Advance Practice” from the April 2022 issue of JNPT by Rafferty, et. al. Parm is joined by one of the authors, Elissa Held Bradford, to discuss how to implement health promotion and wellness topics into daily PT practice. They expand on the role of health promotion and wellness across multiple practice settings and delve into the healthcare delivery models outlined in the paper.   The Degenerative Disease Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org  

A Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) for PT management of PD was recently published in the Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Journal in December, 2021. In this episode, Parm talks to Miriam Rafferty, an author of the CPG and co-chair of the CPG knowledge translation task force, about the development of this new guideline. They discuss the goals of the CPG and highlights intervention featured in the paper, as well as nuances about application to PT practice. This podcast gives both an introduction to the CPG for listeners who haven't read it, and “behind the scenes” insights for listeners who have.   If you are listening to this podcast before 3/28/22 and want to give the KT task force feedback, please fill out this survey: https://redcap.dial.sralab.org/surveys/?s=ARPCH7T8YR  Show notes area available through this link. The Degenerative Disease Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org  

In this episode, Parm talks to the authors of the winners of the the DD SIG poster awards at the 2021 ANPT annual conference. Dr. Rashelle Hoffman discusses aspects of fatigue related to Multiple Sclerosis and Dr. Rebecca Martin discusses the effect of modeling and cueing on sit to stand transfers in individuals with Parkinson's Disease.   The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org. 

 In this episode, Parm talks to Mark Mañago about his recent publication in PTJ about the changing landscape of community exercise classes. Parm and Mark review the results of the study's survey that asked exercise class participants with PD and exercise group leaders to identify facilitators and barriers to virtual and in-person class. They also discuss observed changes in activity level in the people surveyed. Parm and Mark brainstorm some real-world solutions to the barriers identified to help listeners start problem solving for their own classes and patients.  

In this episode, Rebecca talks to Rupal Patel, a founding member of the APTA Health Promotion and Wellness Council. They discuss the council and how it relates to patients with degenerative diseases. They highlight different areas of wellness and ideas for promoting healthy lifestyles at the individual, community, and society levels. Don't miss these practical tips and resources for clinicians.  The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org. 

In this episode, Parm talks to Dr. Zajac and Dr. Ellis about their paper in the October 2021 issue of JNPT “Are Mobile Persons With Parkinson Disease Necessarily More Active?” Parm dives into the methods and results with Dr. Zajac. Then, she zooms out to talk about big picture implications including measuring and defining performance and participation with Dr. Ellis.   The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org. 

In this episode, Katy talks to Heather Cianci, who works in University of Pennsylvania's COPE (Comprehensive Outpatient Parkinsonism Evaluation) Clinic. They discuss the structure of this and other specialty clinics, the rehabilitation team, and atypical PD diagnoses. They highlight resources, evaluation and treatment strategies for clinicians who provide care to patients with these diagnoses. The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy –www.neuropt.org.

 In this episode Parm talks to Lisa Brown, an author on the newly released Clinical Practice Guideline for use of Ankle-Foot Orthoses and Functional Electrical Stimulation Post-Stroke. They discuss the CPG development process, as well as what conclusions might be applicable outside of the stroke population including for people with MS and other neurodegenerative conditions. They talk through some practical strategies clinicians can use when making bracing recommendations and give a preview of upcoming knowledge translation projects.   Show notes: https://www.neuropt.org/docs/default-source/degenerative-diseases-sig/ddsig-episode-23.pdf The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org. 

In this special episode, Rebecca interviews Dr. Graham Cochrane about his recent publication in the July 2021 issue of the Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy: “Comprehensive Clinical Assessment of Vestibular Function in Multiple Sclerosis.” They discuss his significant findings in central vestibular integration through variance in response to subjective visual vertical and dynamic visual acuity, as well as its association with disease severity. In addition, Dr. Cochrane describes each vestibular measure used in his study and his recommendation for an efficient battery of clinical vestibular tests. Listen in to discover more about vestibular function in Multiple Sclerosis and how you can best assess it in your patients!  The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org.