“It’s not just for research anymore — every surgical patient gets tested throughout their recovery.” – Dr Catherine Logan
In this episode, orthopedic surgeons Dr Ivan Wong and Dr Catherine Logan join cohosts Mark Opar and Dylan Carmody to discuss how objective measurement is transforming patient care and surgical decision-making. With backgrounds spanning physical therapy, elite sport and orthopedic surgery, they share how data is integrated into their clinical workflows, what it takes to foster better surgeon-therapist collaboration and why objective strength metrics are redefining standards in musculoskeletal care.
They also explore the role of patient motivation, the logistics of implementing testing and the evolving future of personalized rehab through technology.
🔍 Episode Summary:
- Orthopedic surgeons Dr Catherine Logan (Denver) and Dr Ivan Wong (Halifax) share how they’ve embedded objective measurement into their surgical and rehab practices.
- Both use asymmetries and normative data to guide clinical decisions and monitor recovery.
- Objective testing helps identify when patients are ready for surgery — or when they need further rehab first.
- Post-op assessments are standardized at key time points (6 weeks, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months) using force plates and dynamometry.
- Clinic staff — including MAs and PTs — play an active role in data collection and interpretation, enabling efficient handoffs and real-time planning.
- Measured progress keeps patients more engaged and compliant, while giving them clear goals and feedback throughout recovery.
- Shared metrics and reporting create stronger collaboration between surgeons, therapists and other providers — improving communication and patient outcomes.
🎙 Connect with our guests and hosts:
🔗 Learn more about VALD technology at valdhealth.com
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