Rehab and Performance Lab: A Medbridge Podcast

Lance Mabry, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, an assistant professor at High Point University and a seasoned imaging educator, joins host Phil Plisky for a conversation that challenges the status quo around imaging in rehab. Together, they explore how clinicians like you can step into a more informed, active role when it comes to referring, reviewing, and communicating about diagnostic imaging. You'll hear practical insights that help you avoid common missteps, reduce patient harm, and advocate for evidence-based, ethical decision-making. Whether you're a PT, AT, OT, or SLP, this episode equips you to better navigate the gray areas of imaging with confidence.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence on asymptomatic findings in diagnostic imaging to support ethical and informed decision-makingApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address and communicate missed or overlooked radiologic findings in a way that enhances interprofessional collaborationSolve patient case scenarios involving signs of cervical myelopathy by identifying implications for performance and participation in meaningful daily activitiesTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) The importance of imaging in rehabilitation(00:00:22) Introducing Dr. Lace Mabry(00:08:20) Understanding when to refer for imaging(00:15:05) The role of rehabilitation providers in imaging decisions(00:18:12) Effective communication with radiologists(00:29:00) Interpreting imaging findings and patient communication(00:45:30) Case study: successful imaging referral and outcomes(00:50:36) Three important takeawaysRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

Dr. Anang Chokshi, a dual board-certified physical therapist and advocate for remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM), teams up with Dr. Jon Ide-Don, a digital health leader, to tackle patient dropout in rehab. They discuss the critical difference between adherence and engagement, emphasizing co-creation of care plans. The duo offers innovative strategies to enhance communication and nurture patient relationships, demonstrating how digital tools can transform rehab outcomes. Tune in for insights on leveraging technology to keep patients motivated and involved!

This is a recording of a previously hosted live webinar event. Polling and question submission features are not available for this recording. Format and structure may differ from those of standard podcasts.Struggling with complex shoulder cases? Bridge the gap from research to reality and get real-world answers in this special live podcast recording with experts Phil Plisky and Lenny Macrina. Building on our earlier episode, “How Do We Untangle the Evidence Around Shoulder Rehabilitation and Surgery?”, this interactive session will focus on practical strategies for restoring shoulder function—from immediate post-injury or surgery through return to throwing.In this live podcast recording, you’ll not only hear expert insights on topics such as arthrogenic muscle inhibition in the shoulder, timing of post-surgical strength testing, considerations for overhead athletes, and balancing the delicate art of restoring ROM after stabilization surgery without compromising the repair. Also, you’ll have the opportunity to submit your own questions in real time.Whether you’re curious about blood flow restriction for shoulder rehab, return-to-throwing progressions, or top clinical takeaways, this conversation is designed to provide actionable strategies you can bring directly into your practice.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around strength loss and testing after shoulder injury/surgeryApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address shoulder instabilitySolve patient case scenarios involving return to physical activities such as weightlifting and throwingTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to shoulder rehab(00:03:20) Understanding arthrogenic muscle inhibition(00:10:14) The role of blood flow restriction (BFR) in rehab(00:17:22) Strength testing in shoulder rehabilitation(00:22:39) Balancing range of motion and stability(00:28:00) Empowering patients in their recovery(00:37:35) BFR and older populations(00:38:22) Strength training for overhead athletes(00:44:37) Evolution of return to throwing programs(00:48:19) The journey back to throwing(00:55:45) Key takeaways for rehabilitationRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

Struggling with complex shoulder cases? Join experts Phil Plisky and Lenny Macrina on Medbridge for a special live podcast recording on October 29, 2025, as they dive deep into the latest strategies for shoulder rehabilitation—from early post-op recovery to return-to-throwing progressions.You’ll hear evidence-based insights on strength testing, arthrogenic muscle inhibition, and balancing ROM with stability—plus get the chance to ask your own questions live.Don’t miss it! Register now at medbridge.com/educate/webinars/whats-the-smartest-path-back-after-shoulder-injury-live-podcastAfter registering, you’ll receive a unique link via email to join the podcast recording.Can’t make it to the live event? The full recording will be available on the podcast next month.

Leslie Bonci is a sports dietitian with 35+ years of experience, while Roberta Anding has over 30 years in collegiate sports nutrition. They dive deep into the myths surrounding creatine and its safety in performance and rehabilitation. The duo emphasizes the importance of protein intake, recommending practical strategies for athletes. They also tackle the potential dangers of energy drinks, warning about their effects on health. With their expertise, listeners learn how to better support nutrition in clinical settings for improved recovery outcomes.

Dr. Benedict Nwachukwu joins host Phil Plisky to take a deep dive into hip impingement and labral tears. With insights shaped by both surgical expertise and personal experience as an athlete, Dr. Ben shares what really drives the decision between rehab and surgery. Together, they unpack how rehab professionals like you can navigate the gray areas with confidence and clarity. Don’t miss this thoughtful conversation on what the latest research means for your patients—and your practice.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around hip preservation strategiesApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address conservative and postoperative hip joint pathologySolve patient case scenarios involving postoperative hip labral repair and reconstructionTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:01:25) Introduction to guest(00:03:33) Introduction to hip labral tears and impingement(00:08:13) Understanding hip anatomy and impingement(00:16:30) The interplay of hip and spine(00:22:23) Differential diagnosis of hip conditions(00:25:26) Current research on hip management(00:30:46) Indications for a surgical referral(00:36:07) Postoperative rehabilitation process(00:42:28) Comparisons to ACL reconstruction(00:47:19) Postoperative dos and don’ts(00:55:40) Case study: a journey through hip surgery(00:59:24) Key takeaways and future directionsRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

Dr. Lynn Snyder-Mackler, an esteemed expert in knee rehabilitation and ACL recovery, joins Phil Plisky to discuss the critical role of measuring quadriceps strength post-injury. They uncover why quad strength measurement is vital and tackle the shortcomings of traditional testing methods. Lynn shares practical alternatives for clinics lacking advanced equipment and highlights the effectiveness of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in enhancing recovery. Tune in for actionable insights to elevate your approach to ACL rehabilitation!

Dr. Lynn Snyder-Mackler, a globally recognized knee rehabilitation expert with over 45 years of experience, discusses ACL rehabilitation with host Phil Plisky. They tackle the misconceptions around open-chain exercises, emphasizing that they are safe and essential for quadriceps recovery. Lynn shares insights on the importance of measuring strength objectively, and why evolving research debunks fears of graft laxity. This enlightening conversation encourages a fresh approach to early-phase rehab strategies for optimal outcomes.

Ann Porretto-Loehrke, PT, DPT, CHT, COMT, CMTPT, a leading expert in upper extremity rehab, joins host Phil Plisky to rethink what we really know about lateral elbow pain. Together, we dig into the clinical clues that help you distinguish between tendon, joint, and nerve involvement—and what to do when it’s not just a tendinopathy. You’ll hear how recent evidence and real world case examples can reshape your eval and treatment approach. Join us for a fresh look at a common diagnosis that isn’t always what it seems.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around anatomical structures that can contribute to lateral elbow pain and dysfunction in daily activitiesApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address tendinopathy, articular involvement, and radial nerve issuesSolve patient case scenarios involving patients who present with significant pain and a history of multiple corticosteroid injectionsTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:28) Introduction to lateral elbow pain(00:01:27) Understanding the complexity of lateral elbow pain(00:03:45) Anatomy of the elbow and its implications(00:09:19) Evaluating lateral elbow pain: tests and techniques(00:14:28) Treatment approaches for tendon issues(00:23:14) Differentiating between tendon and joint issues(00:27:03) Diagnostic strategies for elbow pain(00:30:45) Understanding joint and tendon interactions(00:34:54) Comprehensive treatment approaches(00:37:37) The importance of core stability(00:40:31) Exploring nerve involvement in elbow pain(00:45:30) Key takeaways for effective treatmentResources Mentioned in EpisodeSALT Test VideoPEPPER Test VideoPull Test VideoRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

Christopher DaPrato, PT, DPT, SCS, joins host Phil Plisky to explore the evidence behind cupping and its role in rehab and performance. They break down the latest research on fascial mechanics, the benefits of movement-based cupping, and practical strategies for clinical application. Tune in to challenge common misconceptions and learn how to integrate cupping effectively into patient care.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around cupping and its use in rehab and performance settingsApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address mobility deficits, stability deficits, or motor control deficitsSolve patient case scenarios involving mobility deficits with loading strategies, postural awareness during movement education, and muscle synergies with overuse and dominant muscle hyperexcitabilityTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:49) Introduction to cupping and myofascial decompression(00:03:30) The importance of active modality in cupping(00:07:48) Research landscape: evidence and methodology in cupping(00:10:50) Challenges in cupping research and study design(00:15:53) Mechanistic studies and depth of cupping effects(00:20:05) Future directions and clinical implications of cupping(00:24:43) The power of manual therapy(00:28:45) Clinical reasoning in cupping therapy(00:36:02) Understanding the neurophysiological effects(00:37:28) Case studies in cupping application(00:42:15) Cupping for recovery: myths and realities(00:44:12) Key takeaways for practitionersRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-labIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/