ANPT – Academy for Neurologic Physical Therapy Podcast

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

The Student Corner of the Stroke SIG (Ben Lindaman, Pam Bosch, and Dana Kohl) took a question from a student regarding the role of neurotechnology in stroke rehabilitation. This podcast discusses the evidence behind some of the neurotechnology you may (or may not have!) heard of to support the recovery of those with neurologic impairments. Article Referenced: Putrino D, Krakauer JW. Neurotechnology’s prospects for bringing about meaningful reductions in neurological impairment. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2023;37(6):356-366. doi:10.1177/15459683221137341 Note: This podcast used Artificial Intelligence (AI) for its creation! Source: Notebook LM If you are a student and have a question regarding stroke rehabilitation, we are here to help! Submit questions here: https://www.neuropt.org/special-interest-groups/stroke/resources-for-students The information in this podcast is meant for the benefits of physical therapists. It is not meant for personal medical diagnosis and/or treatment. Individuals should always consult an appropriate medical practitioner with questions. This is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, rehabilitation, or treatment. Patients and other members of the general public should always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional regarding personal health and medical conditions. The Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy and its collaborators disclaim any liability to any party for any losses 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. Please send comments or questions on this podcast to the Stroke SIG at strokesig@gmail.com. The Stroke Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.com.

Join us as we discuss with Nicole Sharf about her groups paper, “Psychosexual Well-Being Following Spinal Cord Injury: Perspectives of Adults With Spinal Cord Injury and Rehabilitation Clinicians” published in Rehabilitation Psychology in 2024. Article abstract: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2025-44297-001

Join us as we talk with Katie Blackburn, PT, DPT, NCS, MSHQS about SCI program development and quality initiatives to improve care. Please send comments or questions on this podcast to anptscisig@gmail.com The Spinal Cord Injury Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org.

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