Start Up Sit Down | Season 2, Episode 7
On this episode Alex (@neurofitvr) , sits down with Phil, the OT Professor (@the.ot.professor), a doctor of occupational therapy specializing in high-intensity walking therapy. Inspired by experts in the field, Phil focuses on understanding his patients' goals and identity. He incorporates evidence-based approaches, ensuring patient buy-in before implementing high-intensity training. Phil shares a four-step process to overcome challenges, emphasizing goal setting and addressing obstacles. He highlights the disconnect between evidence and practice in occupational therapy and advises OTs to take a free course and seek mentorship for confidence. Phil envisions a collaborative future with PTs and physicians valuing OT for optimal patient outcomes. Discover the power of high-intensity walking therapy and the benefits of a collaborative healthcare approach.
7:04 Introduction of guest, Phil, and his background in occupational therapy
9:06 Phil's interest in high intensity walking as a part of therapy
13:18 Phil's observations on the effectiveness of high intensity training
14:10 Discussion on the difference between high intensity training and traditional therapy approaches
16:30 The importance of patient buy-in and motivation in high intensity training
18:35 The role of technology in high intensity training
19:58 Additional benefits of high intensity training, including indirect benefits and aerobic intensity
20:35 Phil's process of incorporating high intensity training into patient treatment plans
22:10 Success stories of high intensity walking improving patient conditions through laundry folding task example
27:36 Importance of focusing on patients' goals and addressing limb mobility
28:17 Resources available for implementing high intensity training
28:42 Patients' coping mechanisms and their impact on willingness to participate
32:38 Challenges faced in getting patients to participate in high intensity training and how to overcome them
34:09 Four-step process for introducing high intensity training to patients
34:13 Phil's approach to explaining the evidence behind high intensity training to patients
38:11 Discussion on the adoption of high intensity training in occupational therapy and the battle between traditional interventions and evidence-based practice
40:08 Evidence-based progression through high intensity walking and the disconnect between traditional interventions and evidence-based practice
41:00 The disconnect between high intensity training and traditional interventions
41:28 Imposter syndrome and the need for evidence-based practice in occupational therapy
43:29 Advice for OTs to incorporate high intensity walking into their practice
46:18 Importance of having a mentor in high intensity training
46:51 Resources available for further learning and the future of occupational therapy, including a transdisciplinary approach between PTs and OTs
As a bonus offer exclusive to our podcast listeners, The OT Professor will provide transfer training where I'll introduce three fundamental principles for easy transfers. During the training, we will focus on a seated transfer utilizing a low bottom scoot technique, applicable to conditions such as stroke, SCI, and lower limb amputation. This technique is not only back-friendly but also requires no lifting. Send a message to @the.ot.professor on Instagram with the code:
StartUpSitDown25 for 25% off the course.
Research References (mentioned in the episode):
Leech, K. A., Roemmich, R. T., Gordon, J., Reisman, D. S., & Cherry-Allen, K. M. (2021). Updates in motor learning: Implications for physical therapist practice and education.
Henderson, C. E., Plawecki, A., Lucas, E., Lotter, J. K., Scofield, M., Carbone, A., Jang, J. H., & Hornby, T. (2022). Increasing the amount and intensity of stepping training during inpatient stroke rehabilitation improves locomotor and non-locomotor outcomes.