Evidence To Excellence: News In Neuroplasticity and Rehab

The Recovery Project
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Welcome to Evidence to Excellence: News in Neuroplasticity and Rehab powered by The Recovery Project. We want to personally welcome and thank you for joining us. The Evidence to Excellence: News in Neuroplasticity and Rehab Podcast is designed to keep you updated on what’s new in research and evidence in the neuro rehabilitation world.

  1. Jun 2

    Episode 44: IpsiHand by Kandu- The Latest on Brain-Computer Interface Technology

    Host Polly Swingle is joined by Lauren Souders, MOTR/L, CBIS, CSRS, and Vice President of Medical Affairs at Neurolutions, to talk about the IpsiHand device for stroke recovery. As an occupational therapist by training, Lauren has spent her entire career in adult neurorehabilitation. She began as a clinician at The Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis, an affiliate of Washington University in St. Louis, where she worked alongside the research team that conceived IpsiHand in its earliest days. She helped author the initial study protocol and has grown with the company ever since - shepherding the technology through clinical trials, peer‑reviewed publications, and the regulatory pathway that earned IpsiHand both FDA Breakthrough Device designation and De Novo clearance. After clearance, she helped lead the organization through commercialization and into broader clinical adoption.  Lauren has authored numerous publications and delivered presentations at national and international forums, but her most enduring focus is advocacy: ensuring that stroke survivors have evidence‑based access to therapies that meaningfully improve their quality of life. That mission is personal. Beyond the patients she has cared for, Lauren brought her grandmother into her own home during the COVID‑19 pandemic and cared for her after she sustained a severe stroke — an experience that deepened her understanding of the toll stroke takes on families as well as individuals.  She is also a mother of three, including a child with a rare neurogenetic condition, and is a passionate advocate within the pediatric neuro-community as well. Her and her husband also share their home with three crazy dogs. When she isn't working or advocating, she can most often be found visiting family in Bermuda. Click the link below to visit the IpsiHand by Kandu website- https://www.neurolutions.com/ Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on Facebook Thanks for listening!

    37 min

  2. May 12

    Episode 43: MyoPro: The Latest in Powered Hand & Arm Orthotic Technology

    Host Polly Swingle is joined by Annie Goldman, PT, DPT, NCS, and regional MyoPro specialist to talk about the latest Myomo technology.  Annie Goldman is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and board-certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist. She earned her DPT from Emory University and completed a neurologic residency with OhioHealth in Columbus, Ohio. Her clinical background includes both direct patient care and clinical research, with a focus on neurologic rehabilitation.  In 2025, Annie transitioned to a clinical specialist role with Myomo, where she continues to work directly with patients while also training therapists and caregivers to use the MyoPro, a myoelectric orthosis that helps restore arm and hand function. She teaches continuing education courses and contributes to clinical research and product development, including testing to support FDA approval of new innovations.  This work brings her into close collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of physical and occupational therapists, engineers, orthotists, and business professionals, all focused on advancing technology and improving outcomes for individuals with neurologic injuries.  Click the link below to visit the MyoPro website page- https://myomo.com/what-https://myomo.com/what-is-a-myopro-orthosis/is-a-myopro-orthosis/ To follow up with Annie Goldman directly, click HERE OR 617-875-6477 Annie.Goldman@myomo.com Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on Facebook Thanks for listening!

    43 min

  3. Mar 27

    Episode 42: The Evolution of the Concentrated Stroke Rehab Program (CSR) at The Recovery Project

    Host Polly Swingle is joined by team members of the Concentrated Stroke Rehab Program (CSR) to talk about the evolution and effectiveness of the program over the last few years. Elise Thompson, MSOT, OTRL, is an occupational therapist that graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Master's of Occupational Therapy. Soon after graduating, Elise started with TRP and has been here for a year and a half. She has taken part in both the PMP and CSR program in the Livonia clinic. She is passionate about helping individuals with neurological conditions return to what they love doing most. Dr. Kayla Diebold, PT, DPT, CSRS is a Lead Physical Therapist and the Site Coordinator of Clinical Education at The Recovery Project.  She has specialized in the treatment of neurological diseases and disorders since 2017 with special interest in Parkinson’s Disease, Stroke, and Vestibular disorders.  She is a Certified Stroke Rehab Specialist and heads the medical programming group for stroke at The Recovery Project. Kayla also has certifications in PWR! and Rock Steady Boxing for the management of Parkinson’s Disease. She is a guest lecturer in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Macomb Community College and frequently presents on topics involving physical therapy management of neurological diseases and disorders across the continuum of care. Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on Facebook Thanks for listening!

    39 min

  4. Mar 17

    Episode 41: The Chronic Pain Management Program of Michigan

    Host Polly Swingle is joined by members of The Chronic Pain Management Program of Michigan treatment team as they share about who is appropriate for this program, what the program entails, and the science behind this programs success. Click the link here to visit our website and learn more! Mary Wingett, PT, DPT is a doctor of physical therapy at The Recovery Project- Livonia. She is passionate in treating patients with chronic pain and has been a leader in the development of the Chronic Pain Management Program of Michigan. She developed her skills with tying in physical function with neurological disorders at the Lansing Recovery Project where she was a treating therapist for FMD in the LIFE program, restoring individuals with functional movement disorders to healthy movement patterns. Outside of work, Mary is busy running marathons, hiking, and spending time with her friends and family. Elise Thompson, MSOT, OTRL, is an occupational therapist that graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Master's of Occupational Therapy. Soon after graduating, Elise started with TRP and has been here for a year and a half. She has taken part in both the PMP and CSR program in the Livonia clinic. She is passionate about helping individuals with neurological conditions return to what they love doing most. Dr. Jarhed Peña is a psychotherapist in private practice specializing in the treatment of autonomic nervous system–related conditions, including chronic pain and functional neurological disorder (FND). His work focuses on helping patients understand and regulate the physiological patterns underlying their symptoms, with the goal of reducing distress and improving daily functioning. Dr. Peña previously worked as a rehabilitation counselor for the State of Idaho, where he supported individuals with disabilities in achieving meaningful employment and community integration. This experience informs his holistic, function-oriented approach to care. In his current clinical practice in Michigan, Dr. Peña integrates Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and somatic-based approaches. He helps patients build interoceptive awareness, reduce reactivity to bodily sensations, and develop practical skills to influence nervous system regulation. His approach emphasizes both education and experiential learning to support sustainable symptom improvement. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Peña provides supervision to colleagues delivering psychotherapy for FND and collaborates with a local clinic to support coordinated, multidisciplinary care. Together, they work to improve access to effective, evidence-informed treatment for patients with complex neurological and pain-related conditions. Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on Facebook Thanks for listening!

    43 min

  5. Mar 11

    Episode 40: Strength Training And Menopause, What Every Woman Over 30 Must Know

    Episode 40 takes on a different format, as Polly Swingle is a guest on the EmpowerHer Wellness Podcast hosted by Morgan Ekovich! Menopause doesn't mean your best years are behind you—but it does mean your body needs a different approach. In this powerful conversation, host Morgan Ekovich sits down with Polly Swingle, a licensed physical therapist with 39 years of experience, to break down the real changes happening in women's bodies during perimenopause and menopause—and what to do about them. Polly, who is also a yoga instructor for 15 years and currently pursuing her Pilates certification at age 62, shares evidence-based strategies for combating muscle loss, bone density decline, joint pain, fat distribution changes, and mood disruptions. This isn't about accepting aging as decline—it's about understanding that your body is asking to be used differently. If you've noticed your metabolism slowing down, strength decreasing, or body composition changing despite eating less and exercising more, this episode will transform how you think about fitness, nutrition, and aging. Polly explains why strength training is the "new medicine" for women, why cardio alone isn't enough, and how much protein you really need to support muscle growth. Whether you're in your 30s and want to prevent future issues, navigating perimenopause symptoms, or already postmenopausal, this conversation offers practical, actionable advice from someone who has both personally experienced these changes and professionally guided thousands of women through them. WHAT LISTENERS WILL LEARN: ✅ Why muscle loss begins in your 30s (not your 50s)  ✅ Understanding osteopenia vs osteoporosis  ✅ How to naturally reduce or eliminate hot flashes ✅ Protein requirements for muscle building: How much women actually need  ✅ Fat distribution changes explained ✅ How decreasing estrogen and testosterone affect muscles, bones, joints, mood, and cognition ✅ Joint pain and inflammation management ✅Understanding the cognitive impacts of hormonal shifts and how exercise helps ✅ How Yoga and Pilates support pelvic floor health, flexibility, core stability, and nervous system regulation ✅ Recovery and sleep hygiene: ✅ Why following age-appropriate experts and finding supportive groups matters for long-term success ✅ How to reframe menopause Join Morgans 90-Day Kickstart Program: Customized strength training + nutrition baseline + habit building + weekly accountability. Only 3 spots available this month! Email "KICKSTART" to: morgan@getfitwithme-morganekovich.com Want to listen to more EmpowerHer Wellness Podcasts check it out here: https://empowerherwellness.buzzsprout.com Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on Facebook Thanks for listening!

    1h 6m

  6. Feb 20

    Episode 39: The Memory Health Program (MHP) at The Recovery Project

    Host Polly Swingle is joined by the physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and clinical psychologists involved in the creation and implementation of the Memory Health Program (MHP) at The Recovery Project. This program is built to support both those living with dementia and their loved ones through their journey with compassion, expertise, and personalized care. Visit therecoveryproject.net to learn more! Abbey Seevers is an Occupational Therapy Doctoral student at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) where she plans to graduate in May 2026. Abbey earned her Bachelor of Science in Applied Human & Sport Physiology at Wayne State College in 2023. She has a passion for working with patients with dementia and has a long history working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in long-term memory care and home health throughout her high school, college and graduate schooling years. For her Doctoral Capstone project at UNMC she has partnered with TRP to develop this Memory Health Program. Jordyn Sebastian, MA, CCC-SLP, graduated with a master's degree from Eastern Michigan University. She is licensed in SPEAKOUT! and a certified VitalStim provider for dysphagia therapy. Riley Janssen, OTD, OTRL, is a licensed Occupational Therapist who earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Western Michigan University. She joined The Recovery Project in 2024 following graduation. Riley serves as one of the occupational therapists on the Power Over Parkinson’s program team at the Clinton Township location. She is passionate about working with individuals with neurological conditions and is committed to ongoing learning and evidence-based practice to provide the highest quality care. Dr. Madeline Wideman, PT, DPT, has been a Physical Therapist at The Recovery Project since 2018. She earned her Bachelors degree in Allied Health Science from Bowling Green State University in 2014 prior to her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Oakland University in 2017. She specializes in neurological and orthopedic diagnoses with a primary focus in spinal cord injury and CVA. She is also dry needling certified. Dr. Tiffany Tuttle is a clinical psychologist who provides mental health services to adults and older adults with underlying medical issues. She treats depression, anxiety, distress, and assists in trauma recovery. She has over 20 years of experience providing counseling and her approach is strength-based, supportive, and always patient centered. Helping individuals live their best life despite barriers they have encountered is a hallmark of the work Dr. Tuttle provides her patients. She can be reached at 248-245-2306 and found online at patientcenteredpsych.com. Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on Facebook Thanks for listening!

    33 min

  7. 11/29/2025

    Episode 38: The Benefits of Occupational Therapy for those with Parkinson's Disease

    Host Polly Swingle is joined by Paige Boll, COTA/L, to talk about the latest research and evidence relating to Parkinson's Disease. Topics discussed include the latest statistics in the United States, emerging research on risk factors, and the benefits of having an Occupational Therapist as a part of your care team. Paige Boll, COTA/L, earned her Bachelor in Health Science with a concentration in Exercises Science at Oakland University (2018) and then went on to get her Certificate as an Occupational Therapy Assistant at Macomb Community College (2020). She joined The Recovery Project as a Rehab Tech in 2016 and had the ability to work through school before transitioning to a COTA in 2020. Paige is certified in PWR! and is a Rock Steady Boxing Coach. You can find her teaching some of TRP's Rock Steady Boxing classes in the Clinton Township location. Paige also plays an important role in the POPP (Power Over Parkinson's Program) serving as an OT provider. Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on Facebook Thanks for listening!

    47 min

  8. 10/31/2025

    Episode 37: The Benefits of Speech Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer Diagnoses

    Host Polly Swingle is joined by Speech-Language Pathologist, Chrissy Regan, M.A., CCC-SLP, to talk about the benefits of working with a Speech and Language Pathologist for those with head and neck cancer. Chrissy breaks down what head and neck cancer is, causes of this type of cancer, and effective treatments for those who have been diagnosed. Chrissy Regan, M.A., CCC-SLP, earned her Bachelor of Applied Arts in Communication Disorders (2010) and Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology (2013) from Central Michigan University. She joined The Recovery Project in February 2025 after working for 10 years in a Michigan-based outpatient rehabilitation clinic, where she developed a head and neck cancer program focused on improving speech and swallowing outcomes for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Chrissy is certified in Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD) and SpeakOut! therapy programs for the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease and she specializes in adult neurological disorders. She also holds a certification in VitalStim® therapy, an evidence-based approach for the treatment of swallowing disorders. Chrissy is also a part of the Concentrated Stroke Rehabilitation team at The Recovery Project. Learn more about The Recovery Project! View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on Facebook Thanks for listening!

    38 min
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Welcome to Evidence to Excellence: News in Neuroplasticity and Rehab powered by The Recovery Project. We want to personally welcome and thank you for joining us. The Evidence to Excellence: News in Neuroplasticity and Rehab Podcast is designed to keep you updated on what’s new in research and evidence in the neuro rehabilitation world.

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