Let's Get Physical (Therapy)

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As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and think about how we want to show up — both personally and professionally. Joining me today is Kathryn Knill, Regional Clinical Well-Being Specialist with MedStar Health. Kathryn works closely with clinicians to support their well-being, balance, and growth, and she’s here to share insights we can all use to set meaningful goals and start the year off strong. 

Together, we’ll talk about what it really means to set intentions that last, how to stay grounded when life gets busy, and why self-compassion might just be the most important resolution of all.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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As the year winds down, many healthcare providers find themselves running on empty—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The holidays can disrupt routines, magnify stress, and make it harder to prioritize our own health. 

In this end-of-year episode, physical therapists Brigitte Henry, Rebecca Orloski, and host Rebecca Schumer come together as members of the MedStar Health Wellness Committee to share practical, PT-informed strategies for staying healthy through the winter months. From maintaining movement and motivation during busy seasons to recognizing the early signs of the winter blues in ourselves and our colleagues, this conversation stays grounded, realistic, and relatable. 

This episode isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what’s sustainable, supportive, and kind as we close out the year and look ahead. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re exploring the world of functional fitness and barbell training, and why it has an important place in rehab and athletic programming. We’re joined by two incredible clinicians, physical therapist, Kristin Famiglietti and  physical therapy assistant, Ashley Faller, who will guide us through everything from Olympic lifts to powerlifting, CrossFit movements, and other functional fitness modalities. 

Together, we’ll break down common misconceptions about barbell training, review key points of performance, discuss frequent movement faults and corrections, and importantly, talk about how to modify exercises to keep patients moving safely while recovering from injury. From post-ACL reconstruction, shoulder injuries, or low back issues, to general orthopedic or overuse injuries, barbell training — when programmed correctly — can be a powerful tool to restore strength, confidence, and function. 

Whether you’re a PT, coach, or athlete, this episode will give you practical strategies and expert insight to progressively load patients without fear, maintain safety, and optimize recovery.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Returning an athlete to sport after injury isn’t just about feeling ready—it’s about proving readiness. In this episode, we sit down with physical therapists Samantha King and Andrew Douwes to dive into the world of return to play testing. They’ll break down why this testing is so critical, the different components that go into a comprehensive assessment, and how data is interpreted and communicated to athletes, coaches, and physicians. We’ll also explore how return to play testing has evolved over the years and why a collaborative approach is key to getting athletes back safely and successfully. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Cartilage injuries can be frustrating for patients and complex for clinicians. In this episode, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Wiemi Douoguih joins us to break down the latest in cartilage management—from non-operative approaches to advanced surgical techniques. We discuss how to identify which patients may benefit from surgery, what PTs should know about different procedures, and how rehab can make or break long-term outcomes. 

Whether you’re navigating conservative care or guiding a patient through post-op recovery, this conversation highlights the decision-making process, key red flags to watch for, and the importance of collaboration between the surgical and rehab teams. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Dreese, an orthopedic surgeon who is well versed in treating mensical injuries, to get the full picture on meniscus injuries—from the moment they happen to returning to sport and everyday life. We’ll explore both operative and non-operative treatment options, discussing when surgery is necessary and what factors influence those decisions. 

Dr. Dreese also shares insights into how he communicates and collaborates with physical therapists to ensure patients have a smooth and safe recovery. Whether you’re an athlete, a clinician, or just curious about knee health, this episode gives a comprehensive look at the care, decision-making, and teamwork that help patients get back to doing what they love. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Welcome to today’s episode. We’ll be examining current best practices for the rehabilitation of meniscal injuries, both through conservative management and following surgical repair. Joining me is Stefan Rasinski, a physical therapist with extensive experience in orthopedic and sports rehabilitation. In this discussion, we’ll review the latest evidence, explore criteria for selecting non-operative versus operative pathways, and outline rehabilitation strategies that optimize outcomes and long-term joint health. Whether you’re a clinician looking to refine your approach or a student interested in evidence-based practice, this conversation will provide clear, actionable insight. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Welcome back to the show! As the holidays approach, it’s the perfect time to talk about gratitude, what it really means and why it matters. 

Gratitude isn’t just saying “thank you.” It’s a mindset that can improve our mood, strengthen our relationships, and help us handle life’s challenges with a little more perspective. 

Today, we’re joined by one of our amazing social workers to share simple ways to practice gratitude and stay grounded throughout the holiday season. 

Let’s dive in and explore how a little gratitude can go a long way.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Today we have an incredible guest joining us, Dr. Farrelly, a incredible orthopedic trauma surgeon with extensive experience in treating limb-threatening injuries. 

In this episode, we’ll explore the complexities of these serious injuries, from initial assessment and surgical interventions to the vital role physical therapists play in the recovery process. Dr. Farrelly will share her insights on the challenges faced during treatment, the latest advancements in orthopedic care, and how we can work collaboratively to help athletes return to their beloved sports. 

So, whether you’re a seasoned physical therapist, a student, or just someone interested in the world of sports medicine, you won’t want to miss this enlightening conversation.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

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Today, we’re tackling early sport specialization—when kids focus on one sport too soon—and the risks that come with it. 

Joining me are Dr. Hinton an orthopedic surgeon who treats these injuries every day, and Caitlin Kelley from USA Lacrosse, who’s helping shape safer, smarter youth sports. 

Athletes who specialize early are up to twice as likely to suffer overuse injuries, yet less than 2% of college athletes ever go pro. The risks are real, and the payoff is rare. 

Let’s dive into what’s really happening and how we can protect young athletes. 

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: [email protected] with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!