I Love Neuro

In this episode of the I Love Neuro podcast, hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS discuss a major Lancet Public Health systematic review and meta-analysis on daily steps and health outcomes in adults, shared from a post by movement disorders neurologist Dr. Michael Okun. Claire explains that the study, which pooled data from multiple cohorts using device-measured steps, found the number of steps per day that is associated with substantial health benefits, including about a 47% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to less steps. This amount also demonstrated reductions in cardiovascular disease, dementia, depressive symptoms, type 2 diabetes, and falls, with some benefits even for people already living with chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease or cancer. Although 10,000 steps can still be a good target, the number revealed is both evidence-based and more realistic for many people, especially those with Parkinson's or other comorbidities that limit high-intensity exercise. We offer practical coaching strategies such as using wearables or phones to track steps, first establishing a baseline, then increasing by roughly 500–1,000 steps per day over weeks rather than rushing, and using accountability systems, step challenges, and percentage-of-goal metrics to keep motivation high and inclusive. Walking is our top exercise recommendation—accessible, adaptable, socially engaging, and powerful for long-term health and functional mobility—and we encourage clinicians to share the article with patients and help them set individualized, achievable step goals.

Find the full text article here: https://www.thelancet.com/action/showPdf?pii=S2468-2667%2825%2900164-1

In this week's episode, host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS is joined by OT mentor Briana Elson, MS, OTR/L, BCPR, CBIS to dive into one of the most essential topics in spinal cord injury rehab: bowel and bladder care. We unpack why every rehab professional (not just nursing) plays a role, how unmanaged bowel and bladder can lead to serious health issues, and practical strategies to support independence, dignity, and community reintegration. Brianna shares equipment ideas, education tips, and real-world problem-solving for both bladder and bowel programs, plus how this all connects to intimacy, relationships, and quality of life after SCI.

Resources:

• Follow Mason Ellis on YouTube and share with your patients!

• Find a peer mentor through Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation

• facingdisability.com

• https://www.sexualitysci.org/

• https://otafterdark.com/

• https://msktc.org/sci/factsheets/sexuality-sexual-functioning-after-sci

• https://craighospital.org/resources/sexual-function-for-women-after-spinal-cord-injury

**As a note there are a couple of corrections in the episode we wanted to make clear:

Bri may have misspoke… suprapubic catheters are placed below the belly button, not above.

She may have said you can wear a bag with it, but you don't always have to. Disclaimer would be to defer to urology.

We're getting techy!! On this week's episode hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS share a new tool that's changing everything at Rogue, Claire's wellness gym for people with PD. Claire confesses to using paper documentation until recently and is now entering the 21st century. What's propelling her into the "now" is a new tool she's been trying for a couple of weeks called the Plaud NotePin. It's a small, wearable, and HIPAA-compliant AI device designed for healthcare professionals that helps with documentation either in-session or via dictation after. This episode is simply meant to share experience and is not a promotion for the device. With documenation being everyone's number one complaint solutions are needed! *We were not affiliates for Plaud at the time of recording, but because it has made such a difference we signed up since promoting things we love and that will help others is important to us.* Claire makes a great case for how her team is using it and why she's loving it for clinicians. Driven by the universal challenge of time-consuming paperwork, Claire became inspired by other practitioners employing AI for faster documentation. Her search for an efficient, phone-free solution led to the adoption of the Plaud NotePin. While the Plaud NotePin has proven to be a major time-saver and easy to integrate into their workflow, some learning curve remains, especially regarding templates and integration with existing forms. The team is transparent about privacy, requiring client consent via an AI waiver and ensuring compliance with HIPAA standards and data security regulations. Both Erin and Claire are excited about how solutions like this can reduce administrative burdens, improve care quality, and potentially transform the future of healthcare documentation for clinicians and clients alike. The team is committed to ongoing testing, sharing updates, and exploring collaborative opportunities as AI continues to expand its role in their practice. This is the only one we have experience with, but we'd love to hear which one you're using to learn about all of the options out there!

Send us a DM on IG if you're using this or another AI tool for your documentation! @neurocollaborative

Check out the Plaud NotePin here

This week's episode is a little different. We wanted to give you a full view inside a VestiBesties mentorship call where Christina Garrity, PT, DPT, NCS interviewed a neuro-otologist she works with in Ohio, Dr. Jimmy Prueter. Dr. Prueter was invited to the conversation to help clinicians better understand when, why and which tests people with vestibular conditions should be getting. The conversation-style interview is between Christina and Dr. Preuter, taken straight from a VestiBestie webinar so you can have exclusive access! In the discussion they outlined the challenges associated with diagnosing dizziness, noting that ENT residency programs don't always adequately prepare physicians for complex vestibular cases. Dr. Prueter stressed that while some tests—such as VNG with calorics or VEMP—can be helpful in specific scenarios, the decision to order them should be driven by whether the results would actually impact clinical management. Particularly for acute vestibular hypofunction, a strong clinical suspicion based on history and examination might mean that testing is less essential, and prompt referral to vestibular rehab can prevent unnecessary delays. They highlighted that clear documentation from therapists AND teaching physicians how to find what they need in it can provide valuable context for physicians. Plus, educating primary care doctors about early referral to vestibular therapy might streamline the diagnostic process.

Send us a DM on IG if you want to join VestiBesties! @neurocollaborative

Follow Christina @vestibular_neuro_pt

In this episode of the I Love Neuro podcast host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS talks to Christian Leonakis, PT, DPT, Alanna Wathen, PT, DPT, and Danielle Parmenter, MOT, OTR/L, SCLV about Myomo and the MyoPro upper extremity myoelectric orthosis.

The world of neurological rehabilitation, innovation continues to push the boundaries of what's possible for patients recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological conditions. Enter Myomo, a groundbreaking myoelectric orthosis that's changing lives one arm movement at a time.

This isn't just another medical device—it's a personalized technology that acts like a "helping hand" for individuals struggling with upper extremity mobility. Weighing approximately three and a half pounds, the Myomo device uses advanced EMG sensors to amplify even the smallest voluntary muscle contractions, allowing patients to regain functional movement.

What sets Myomo apart is its commitment to patient-centered care. The device isn't a one-size-fits-all solution but a custom-fitted orthosis that patients take home after approximately 10 weeks of specialized training. Designed to look almost like something out of a sci-fi movie—think Iron Man's arm technology—the device comes in customizable colors and helps patients perform everyday tasks like opening doors, carrying groceries, or even walking their dog.

The team behind Myomo, including clinical experts like Christian Leonakis, Alanna Wathen, and Danielle Parmenter, are passionate rehabilitation professionals who understand that recovery is a complex journey. They emphasize that while the device can be transformative, patients need realistic expectations: some might see compensatory improvements, while rare cases might experience significant neurological recovery.

With Medicare coverage now available and ongoing technological developments promised for 2026, Myomo represents more than just a medical device—it's a beacon of hope for those seeking to reclaim independence and functionality after neurological challenges.

For clinicians and patients interested in learning more, Myomo's website offers comprehensive resources and screening processes to determine individual suitability for this innovative technology.

https://myomo.com/

LinkedIn.com/in/alanna-wathen

linkedin.com/in/danielle-parmenter

Is treating dystonia making you stuck? Dystonia remains one of the most challenging neurological conditions for clinicians to understand and treat. In this episode, hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS talk to occupational therapist Leanne Vitale, MS, OTR/L about her holistic approach that goes far beyond traditional treatment methods.

Dystonia isn't just a movement disorder; it's a complex interplay of neurological, psychological, and sensory experiences. Leanne emphasizes that understanding dystonia requires looking beneath the surface—much like an iceberg, where visible motor symptoms represent only a tiny portion of the underlying condition.

The path to managing dystonia is not about finding a quick cure, but about comprehensive, patient-centered care. It involves addressing not just physical symptoms, but also psychological factors like stress, anxiety, and personal history. Leanne's approach integrates sensory retraining, nervous system regulation, and personalized strategies that help patients gradually reclaim control.

Crucially, treatment success depends on collaboration—between healthcare providers, and between the clinician and patient. It's a journey of patience, understanding, and gentle, consistent intervention. By recognizing dystonia's complexity and treating the entire person, not just the symptoms, clinicians can offer hope and meaningful improvement to those struggling with this challenging condition.

Are you looking for tools to challenge dynamic balance? Duh! Check out what makes the Gibbon SlackBoard different and how it can transform balance outcomes. In the episode, host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS interviews Derek Mikulski, BS, CSCS, CPT, National Director of Commercial Sales for Gibbon about what makes the SlackBoard different from other balance tools clinicians use, like foam pads and BOSU balls. Derek described his entrepreneurial journey that led him to Gibbon. The SlackBoard was born from a passion for fitness and personal transformation, and brings slack lining technology into clinics, schools, and homes. The SlackBoard offers an engaging, fun approach to improving body awareness and stability. With adjustable lines and scientific research underway, the board supports everything from rehabilitation to performance training for everyone from stroke survivors to professional athletes.

Check them out at www.gibbon-USA.com and save 10% with our affiliate code "neurocollab"

GIBBON North America, Inc.

On today's episode hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS talk with NeuroBiz coach Emily Duval Ledger about a topic many clinicians and business owners find intimidating: Money. This is exactly why we need to talk about it! Are you investing, saving, or putting systems into place in your business for money management and your future? If not, we understand. And we also want to help make this less overwhelming. Learn how to break down your financial goals and understand your true needs so you can create a business that supports both your professional passion and personal aspirations.

In the episode we'll discuss some surprising and easy ways you can understand your business finances and explore retirement savings options, health insurance costs and other necessities. While not legal or financial advice, learn about retirement options like SEP IRAs and 401(k) plans, high-yield savings accounts, and index fund investments. We'll walk you through it and show you how to build a business that supports your life in all the ways!

Ankle Foot Orthoses (AFOs) are essential in neuro rehab yet can be an area clinicians feel a lack of knowledge. This episode is for the clinician who is both - super knowledgeable about AFOs, AND the clinician who could use more education. Hosts Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Claire McLean, PT, DPT, NCS interview Dr. Jennifaye Brown, PT, MSPT, PhD, NCS, CAPS about her work transforming the way we think about ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) for stroke survivors. Her approach goes far beyond traditional medical practice, focusing on personalization, functionality, and patient empowerment. Her level of understanding on the topic will leave even seasoned therapists with insightful takeaways.

Dr. Brown doesn't just see AFOs as medical devices, but as tools that can dramatically improve a stroke survivor's quality of life. Her book, "Brace Yourself: Everything You Need to Know About AFOs After Stroke," was written to empower stroke survivors and their caregivers with comprehensive, accessible information about AFO selection and use. Yet there are important sections for healthcare professionals as well. It is an essential tool for the clinic.

With a PhD in exercise science and decades of clinical experience, Dr. Brown continues to push the boundaries of stroke rehabilitation. Her work reminds us that true healing goes beyond medical interventions - it's about understanding, adapting, and empowering individuals to live their best lives.

jvb physical therapy services, llc

Order ebook (Flipbook or PDF): jvbneuropt.com/book

Order paperback with a discount: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?params=JdGlFFzdjH8Avw7MNv9FrNN2fROIFyNbI638gxGLoSB

Website: jvbneuropt.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifaye-brown-pt-mspt-phd-ncs-caps/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-0M-apffkZl4vqjAqomd8g

How well are you incorporating the hemiparetic arm of your client into every treatment technique? Do you know when to use remediation vs compensation techniques? Let's talk about it! On today's episode host Erin Gallardo, PT, DPT, NCS and Dr. Melissa Kimmerling, EdD, MOT, OTR/L dive into strategies for upper extremity recovery, focusing on patients with limited arm function after neurological injuries. Dr. Kimmerling, an occupational therapy expert, shares invaluable insights into helping patients maximize their arm's potential, even when movement is minimal.

The discussion centers on the critical concept of not abandoning the affected arm, but instead finding creative ways to integrate it into daily activities. Dr. Kimmerling emphasizes that recovery isn't an all-or-nothing process. Even a dependent arm can play a meaningful role in functional tasks. Key strategies include proper positioning, weight-bearing techniques, and incorporating the arm into bilateral activities. Mental imagery and mirror therapy emerge as powerful tools for maintaining neural pathways and sensory awareness. The experts stress the importance of helping patients feel independent, even if their movement looks different from before.

The conversation highlights the delicate balance between remediation (working to restore function) and compensation (finding alternative ways to complete tasks). Dr. Kimmerling shares personal experiences and clinical insights, reminding listeners that participation is always the ultimate goal - even if it's messy or imperfect.

FUEL upper extremity levels