#PTonICE Podcast

Alan Fredendall, COO of ICE and creator of the Brick by Brick course, shares invaluable insights on launching a physical therapy practice. He discusses common startup mistakes like inadequate legal and financial setups, and emphasizes the importance of choosing the right payment models. Alan highlights tech adoption, recommending tools for automation and management to stay competitive. He also identifies the ideal audience for his course—from aspiring owners to students—ensuring there's something for everyone eager to enhance their practice.

Rachel Selina, the Chief Administrative Officer at ICE and a lead faculty for rehabilitation, shares her passion for ice climbing and endurance athletics. The discussion dives into the importance of continuing education for building confidence and autonomy in physical therapy practices. Rachel reflects on her career journey, including the innovative ice immersion course development and the leap from clinic employee to gym owner. Her insights reveal the challenges and rewards of balancing personal passion with professional growth in the physical therapy field.

Paul Killoren, the Dry Needling Division Leader at ICE, shares his expertise on transforming pain management through advanced dry needling techniques. He discusses leveraging dry needling to positively impact the nervous system, promoting recovery and enhancing performance. The conversation reveals innovative strategies like integrating electrical stimulation for acute pain relief, and the evolving applications of dry needling in treating conditions like arthritis. Paul emphasizes effective patient communication and engagement, showcasing the progressive curriculum at ICE.

Brian Melrose, Spine Division lead faculty at ICE Physio, shares his insights on maximizing education for physical therapists at every career stage. He discusses how new and experienced clinicians perceive spine management differently, stressing the need for tailored education. The talk also highlights the value of mentorship and collaboration in building clinical confidence. Plus, Melrose shares fun tips on caring for house plants, demonstrating the importance of continuous learning both in and out of the clinic!

Dr. Joe Hanisko, ICE Fitness Athlete lead faculty member, discusses the essential role of human connection in physical therapy. He emphasizes the importance of building trust with patients and how effective communication can enhance therapeutic outcomes. Hanisko shares insights on integrating therapy within gym settings, advocating for collaborative relationships among healthcare professionals. The conversation also touches on the significance of intention in community fitness, stressing the value of transparency and acknowledgment in fostering strong professional connections.

Dr. Ellen Csepe, a faculty member at the Institute of Clinical Excellence, is on a mission to reshape how healthcare views obesity. She dives into the multifaceted nature of obesity, discussing its psychological and physiological implications. Ellen emphasizes the critical role of physical therapists in managing obesity, advocating for a compassionate, multidisciplinary approach. The conversation also touches on the impact of GLP-1 medications and the need for continuous learning in treating this complex issue, urging rehab professionals to enhance their involvement and support for those affected.

Dr. April Dominick is a pelvic health expert and owner of Revitalize PT in Denver, specializing in cash-pay practice. She shares her journey from traditional PT to prioritizing pelvic health and creating safe spaces for patients to discuss sensitive issues. April highlights the significance of rectal assessments in understanding conditions like constipation and tailbone pain, and emphasizes the power of active listening and empathy in treatment. She discusses the emotional complexities of pelvic therapy and the need for open dialogue to normalize these conversations.

Cody Gingerich, Lead faculty at the Institute of Clinical Excellence and co-owner of Onward Greenville, dives into the art of adaptable clinic management and the importance of mentorship in physical therapy. He discusses the significance of hiring strategies and coaching roles for new clinicians. Tempo training takes center stage as he emphasizes its impact on neuromuscular awareness and injury prevention. From nuanced rehabilitation strategies to the pitfalls of relying on AI for health insights, Cody shares invaluable lessons for both practitioners and patients.

Andrew Bernstetter, an ICE Extremity Division faculty member and instructor at South College, dives into the art of patient communication and trust-building. He shares insights on the significance of lifestyle changes and how to effectively introduce them to patients. The conversation highlights the role of community resources in facilitating behavioral shifts. Bernstetter emphasizes finding a balance between theory and practical care, advocating for a personalized approach in clinical settings to enhance overall health and patient outcomes.

In this discussion, Dr. Annoushka Ranaraja, an ICE faculty member specializing in older adult care and neurorehabilitation, shares her insights into applying fitness-forward principles for neurological patients. She emphasizes the significance of high-intensity exercise and creative movement strategies for conditions like Parkinson's. Listeners hear about the emotional rewards of patient progress, the latest advancements in Parkinson's management, and innovative training methods that enhance mobility and confidence. Ranaraja inspires with her dedication to improving outcomes through tailored rehabilitation.