In this episode of APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, host Luciano Garcia is joined by Dr. Melissa Hoffman to explore inclusive care in orthopaedic physical therapy—focusing on affirming, evidence-based practices for LGBTQIA+ patients. Dr. Hoffman shares insights from their research, clinical work, and advocacy—highlighting the importance of inclusive data collection, cultural humility, and practical tools to better support this population.

Target Audience: Licensed Physical Therapists (Orthopaedic and General), Physical Therapist Assistants, DPT Students, Physical Therapy Educators & Researchers, PT clinic owners and practice managers, Members of APTA and related academies/SIGs

In this episode of APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, host Jimmy McKay sits down with Meghan Homoky from the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) to break down the evolving science and clinical realities of concussion management. From clinical profiles and active recovery strategies to controversial topics like neck strengthening and return-to-play decisions, Meghan brings clarity, passion, and practical advice for PTs on the front lines.

Hear how early intervention, targeted rehab, and a PT-first approach can make all the difference—for athletes at every level.

Target Audience: Physical therapists, DPT students and residents, Athletic trainers, Concussion specialists, Youth and pro sports coaches, Parents of young athletes, Healthcare professionals interested in concussion management

What happens when mentorship is more than a buzzword? In this powerful kickoff episode of The Mentorship, a part of the APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, host Matthew Haley explores how structured mentorship can shape physical therapy careers, fight burnout, and elevate patient outcomes. Drawing from personal stories and professional insights, Matthew shares how lifelong learning and leadership go hand in hand—and how you can implement sustainable mentorship in your own clinic. Whether you’re a seasoned PT, a new grad, or someone passionate about growth, this episode will inspire you to lead, learn, and elevate the profession.

Target Audience: Early-career and new graduate physical therapists, Clinic directors and practice owners, PT educators and mentors, Physical therapy students, Healthcare professionals interested in leadership development

This engaging town hall discussion explores the APTA Orthopaedic community forums for PTAs and PTA students and the potential to foster stronger PT/PTA collaboration through educational content. Participants highlighted the need for more robust interprofessional training, proposed video interviews showcasing successful PT/PTA team dynamics, and suggested board prep resources for students and early-career professionals. This session underscores the importance of communication, shared learning, and inclusive community-building within the profession.

Target Audience: PTA students, PT students (DPT programs), Practicing PTAs and PTs, Clinical educators and academic faculty, APTA Orthopaedic members, New professionals preparing for licensure

**Watch this presentation on APTA Orthopaedics' YouTube**

In this Occupational Health Presentation, Rick Wickstrom explores the value of Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs) in facilitating return-to-work outcomes. Rick shares insights on integrating job-specific testing into the rehabilitation process, emphasizing the importance of on-site evaluations and collaborating with employers. Learn how physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) can improve patient outcomes by bridging the gap between medical restrictions and functional abilities in the workplace. This session covers strategies for effective communication with employers and methods for enhancing job demands clarity.

Target Audience: Physical Therapists (PTs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), Workers’ Compensation Specialists, Rehabilitation Professionals, Occupational Health Providers, Worksite Rehabilitation Specialists, Healthcare Practitioners

In this Performing Arts SIG panel, PASIG Vice President of Education Melissa Kolski, PT, leads an expert discussion featuring a lineup of clinicians deeply embedded in the world of circus and performing arts: Heather Heineman, PT, DPT, OCS, WCS; Emily Scherb, PT, DPT (author of Aerial Athletes: Flying, Hanging, Wrapping, Catching); and Dawn Muci, DPT, SCS, ATC. Together, they explore physical therapy care for circus artists through the lens of orthopaedics, performance demands, and patient individuality.

Join the PASIG: https://www.orthopt.org/content/special-interest-groups/performing-arts

Target Audience:

orthopaedic physical therapists, performing arts PTs, PT students, clinicians treating hypermobility, circus or dance artists, and anyone managing complex athletic performers.

In the second episode of Did You Know?, part of the APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody chat with Evan Nelson and Scott Tauferner, co-authors of a recently published, myth-debunking original journal article in the Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy titled: "Ordering of Diagnostic Imaging by Physical Therapists: A Multi-Center Analysis of Successful Implementation."

Join us as we explore the key findings from this groundbreaking research, authored by a group of experts, and dive into the evolving role of physical therapists in ordering diagnostic imaging. Evan and Scott share insights into clinical decision-making, the barriers to implementing imaging ordering in practice, and how PTs can expand their skills and positively impact patient care by incorporating imaging into their practice.

Read the full paper here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39960083/

In the second episode of Did You Know?, part of the APTA Orthopaedic Podcasts, hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody chat with Evan Nelson and Scott Tauferner, co-authors of a recently published, myth-debunking original journal article in the Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy titled: "Ordering of Diagnostic Imaging by Physical Therapists: A Multi-Center Analysis of Successful Implementation."

Join us as we explore the key findings from this groundbreaking research, authored by a group of experts, and dive into the evolving role of physical therapists in ordering diagnostic imaging. Evan and Scott share insights into clinical decision-making, the barriers to implementing imaging ordering in practice, and how PTs can expand their skills and positively impact patient care by incorporating imaging into their practice.

Read the full paper here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39960083/

Target Audience:

Physical Therapists, PTs, Orthopedic Physical Therapists, PT Students, Healthcare Advocates, Clinical Directors, PT Clinic Owners, Health System Leaders

Join us for an eye-opening Imaging SIG webinar with Dr. Aaron Keil as he shares results from a powerful new study debunking common misconceptions about physical therapists and diagnostic imaging. From outdated assumptions to insurance myths, we dive deep into the data and how it can transform advocacy, practice, and patient care.

You’ll also get a sneak peek at exciting upcoming research and legislative wins in states pushing for imaging privileges. Whether you’re a clinician, educator, or policymaker—this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.

Landmark Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39960083/

Interest in joining the Imaging SIG? Learn more: https://www.orthopt.org/content/special-interest-groups/imaging

Target Audience:

physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, orthopaedic physical therapists, sports physical therapists, clinicians interested in diagnostic imaging, PT students, PT educators, PT faculty, PT advocates, policy makers in healthcare, APTA Orthopaedic members, state-level PT leaders, advanced practice physical therapists, imaging researchers in rehabilitation

Exploring Issues in Physical Therapy Research, Practice and Leadership

In the very first episode of Did You Know?, hosts Jill Thein-Nissenbaum and Lori Thein Brody chat with Molly Malloy, President of the APTA Orthopaedic Residency/Fellowship SIG. They explore topics like mentorship requirements, how to find the right program fit, and how each pathway can elevate your clinical skills and career. Whether you're considering a residency, a fellowship, or both, this conversation offers valuable insight to help you choose the path that best supports your professional goals.

Target Audiences: Physical therapy students, physical therapy residents, physical therapists, clinical instructors, program directors, healthcare educators, aspiring specialists, physical therapy mentors, healthcare administrators, individuals interested in physical therapy career development