Hands On Hands Off

In this episode, we chat with Chuck Hazle, a veteran educator and expert in manual therapy and clinical reasoning, about the challenges of preparing students for the real world. He discusses the evolution of teaching methods, the importance of rigorous practical exams, and how imaging and medical screening complement manual therapy.

Alex Bengtsson, winner of the Emerging Leader Award, joins us to break down the neurophysiology of pain and the role of manual therapy in modern practice. In this insightful interview, Alex discusses:How our nervous system blocks or amplifies pain signals.The intersection of graded mobilization techniques and neuroscience.His journey from clinical practice to research at Northwestern University.Alex also addresses common misconceptions about manual therapy, its role in dependency, and how fellowship programs are adapting to include cutting-edge neurophysiological findings.

Jennifer Boudreau, PT, and Shanker Krishnan, PT, share their experiences at professional conferences like the AAOMPT event, emphasizing the invaluable benefits of in-person connections, inspiration, and transformative growth. From chance meetings that led to lifelong friendships and professional collaborations to key moments of learning and rejuvenation, Jennifer and Shanker delve into how attending conferences can propel your career forward. They highlight the essential benefits that go beyond what can be captured in online interactions, including networking opportunities, face-to-face inspiration, and tactile learning.Key Points Discussed:The value of attending professional conferences for physical therapistsNetworking and connection opportunities that can transform careersOvercoming imposter syndrome and seizing new opportunitiesEngaging with industry legends and accessing cutting-edge technologyWhy in-person interactions are more impactful than digital connections

Key Points Discussed: • How Dr. Kelli Wilson’s journey led to merging orthopedic and pelvic health approaches • Success stories that demonstrate the transformative power of pelvic interventions • Key orthopedic techniques manual therapists can use to address pelvic health issues • Strategies for overcoming discomfort and confidently addressing sensitive topics with patients • Opportunities for PTs in treating pelvic health issues, including hernia and testicular painSpecial Guest: • Dr. Kelli Wilson, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT - Specialist in Orthopedic and Pelvic Health Physical Therapy (https://pelvicrehab.com/practitioner/kelli-wilson-pt-dpt-ocs-faaompt/)

John Heick joins host Jimmy McKay live from the AAOMPT Conference in Orlando to explore the evolution of physical therapy education, AI integration, and competency-based learning. John shares his journey teaching musculoskeletal health and differential diagnosis, the impact of artificial intelligence on healthcare diagnostics, and the power of modern learning methodologies. They discuss AI’s potential for streamlining complex diagnoses, how education can transform through competency-based models, and how physical therapists can best prepare for the future. From engaging student learning strategies to creating impactful clinical care, this conversation dives into the art and science of modern physical therapy.Key Points Discussed:Evolution of PT education: from problem-based to competency-based learningAI’s influence on differential diagnosis and clinical careEngaging strategies for teaching students, residents, and fellowsThe role of "make it stick" learning principles in healthcare educationInsights on effective science communication and knowledge translationSpecial Guest:John Heick, PT, DPT, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic, Sports, and Neurologic Physical Therapy

Jeremy Lewis joins host Jimmy McKay to explore the evolving role of manual therapy in modern healthcare. Jeremy reflects on his journey from focusing solely on "fix-it" physical therapy methods to embracing a more holistic view of patient care, including behavioral and lifestyle factors. He shares captivating stories from teaching abroad, highlights the challenges of unproven manual therapy philosophies, and emphasizes the need to incorporate broader health factors like sleep, nutrition, and stress management into care plans. Listen in for a powerful discussion about moving beyond old debates and reshaping the profession for the future.Key Points Discussed:Jeremy’s journey from a "fix-it" therapist to a broader focus on healthThe universal nature of touch and manual therapy techniquesWhy manual therapy should not be used in isolationReframing health care conversations around meaningful behavior changeBridging lifestyle factors (sleep, nutrition, smoking) with physical therapySpecial Guest:Jeremy Lewis, PT, PhD, Professor & Specialist in Shoulder Pain

Amber Custodi, an accomplished Residency Program Coordinator at Brooks, to explore how curiosity, humility, and mentorship have shaped her journey in physical therapy. Amber shares invaluable insights on how residency and fellowship can build a solid foundation for clinical reasoning, why curiosity is the most critical trait for PTs, and how to foster growth in future orthopedic specialists. This candid discussion covers strategies for integrating research into practice, striking a balance between patient care and mentoring, and the challenges of nurturing the next generation of PT professionals.Key Takeaways:The transformative role of residency and fellowship in developing a PT career.Key traits Amber looks for in residency applicants and how she mentors them.The importance of curiosity, humility, and adaptive learning in physical therapy.Bridging the gap between research and clinical practice through collaboration.Challenges and opportunities in shaping the future of orthopedic manual therapy.Chapters:0:00 - Welcome & Conference Insights0:35 - Amber’s Role at Brooks: Residency & Fellowship Explained2:12 - Why Amber Chose Residency & Fellowship4:02 - Mentorship & Building Clinical Reasoning Skills6:30 - Qualities of an Ideal Residency Candidate8:45 - Balancing Patient Care and Mentoring Residents11:00 - Integrating Research into Clinical Practice13:15 - The Future of Orthopedic Manual Therapy15:30 - Final Thoughts: Staying Curious and Humble

In this inspiring episode of Hands On/Hands Off, Said Mendez shares his journey from a Mexican immigrant family to pursuing his dream as a physical therapist at Duke. Said’s story is filled with grit, resilience, and a passion for serving others.Host Jimmy McKay and Said discuss how personal experiences shaped his approach to physical therapy, the importance of mentorship, and the evolving role of empathy and connection in modern PT practice. They dive into what excites him about the future of the profession, key lessons learned from his clinical rotations, and the power of networking at conferences like AAOMPT.Key Points Discussed:Overcoming obstacles: Said’s journey from Mexico to the U.S. and pursuing PTHow Said’s experience with his father’s rehabilitation inspired his PT pathThe evolving role of touch, empathy, and connection in patient careInsights from Said’s clinical rotations and surprising lessons learnedThe transformative power of networking and mentorship in PTSpecial Guest:Said Mendez, Physical Therapy Student at Duke University

On today’s episode of the AAOMPT podcast, Jimmy McKay sits down with Dr. Steve Karas, a seasoned clinician, educator, and researcher with nearly 30 years of experience in physical therapy. Dr. Karas teaches and conducts research at Chatham University while practicing in clinics owned by his former students. He’s also the author of the upcoming book, Living Better with Low Back Pain, which challenges the traditional narrative of 'curing' low back pain, urging clinicians and patients alike to focus on sustainable management strategies.Dr. Karas shares valuable insights into how physical therapists can empower patients by shifting from a 'cure' mindset to one of realistic management, especially with chronic pain conditions. Through this interview, we delve into:The evolution of low back pain treatment and why Dr. Karas believes it's time to reframe the conversation.Strategies for helping patients manage chronic pain more effectively, and the crucial role of manual therapy in long-term pain management.Balancing the demands of teaching, research, and clinical work while staying current in the evolving field of chronic pain management.How AAOMPT has influenced Dr. Karas' career and helped him grow as a clinician, educator, and researcher.The future of chronic pain management in physical therapy and new developments in the field.

In this episode, Dr. Tim Flynn, renowned clinician and outspoken advocate for reform in healthcare, shares his vision for a system that truly serves patients. As a leader in orthopedic manual therapy and the voice behind the "Own My Health" movement, Dr. Flynn challenges the traditional "sickness industry" and emphasizes empowering patients to take charge of their health.Key highlights include the evolving role of manual therapy, the power of mentorship, and how physical therapists can drive patient-centered care in a technology-driven world. Dr. Flynn also shares insights on how clinicians can foster patient autonomy, the importance of providing value as a mentee, and how to navigate the challenges of a system that prioritizes interventions over holistic wellness.Key Topics Discussed:The Value of Manual Therapy: Why human connection and hands-on care remain crucial, even in a tech-focused healthcare landscape."Own My Health" Philosophy: Dr. Flynn's Substack and vision to transform healthcare by empowering patients to control their own health journeys.The Sickness Industry: Critiques of today’s healthcare system and the call to shift from excessive interventions to preventative, patient-centered care.Mentorship in Healthcare: Advice for new clinicians on finding mentors, providing value, and learning by observing master clinicians in action.The Future of Manual Therapy: The need to practice at the top of the license and integrate holistic approaches to better serve patients.Whether you're a physical therapist, clinician, or healthcare advocate, this episode offers actionable insights for creating a healthier, more empowering system for patients and practitioners alike.