Gender Matters in OMPT: Dr. Shaver on Bias, Equity, and Better Outcomes

In this episode of HANDS ON HANDS OFF, host Dr. Moyo Tillery sits down with Dr. Sarah Shaver, a clinician, educator, and researcher focused on gender considerations in orthopaedic manual physical therapy. Together they explore why common assumptions about female athletes and chronic pain patients can perpetuate inequities—and what OMPT practitioners can do to change that.

From ACL injury risk factors to concussion outcomes, manual therapy decision-making, and care for transgender and non-binary athletes, Dr. Shaver challenges listeners to reflect on their own biases, apply equity-based care, and use available research to transform outcomes.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why gendered assumptions about ACL injuries and concussions can lead to inequitable care
• How “hands-off” approaches to chronic pain disproportionately affect female patients
• The difference between equality and equity in clinical practice
• Practical strategies and resources to recognize and reduce bias in your own treatment
• How to create more inclusive environments for transgender and non-binary athletes in OMPT settings