The Sports Medicine Research Rundown

Professional Seminars Ltd.
  • 5.0 (4)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

The Sports Medicine Research Rundown is a monthly podcast that dives deep into the latest research and clinical practices in sports medicine surgery and rehabilitation. Hosted by physical therapist Tim Tyler, each episode features an expert guest in the field who discusses a specific orthopedic surgery, pathology or treatment approach. The premise is to provide a comprehensive rundown covering the history and evolution of the procedure, current best practices, surgical techniques, rehabilitation protocols, and a look at future directions. Guests share their extensive knowledge and experience.

  1. MAR 6

    Shin Splints or Stress Fracture? Navigating the Bone Stress Continuum

    Are you still calling them "stress fractures"? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Christian Muller to discuss why the industry is moving toward the term Bone Stress Injury (BSI) to describe a spectrum of pathology. We explore the epidemiology of these injuries—affecting up to 20% of the sports population—and the critical "intrinsic" factors often missed, from Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) to metabolic deficiencies like Vitamin D and Ferritin. What You’ll Learn: The High-Risk Zones: Why injuries to the femoral neck, navicular, and anterior tibial cortex require aggressive management. Diagnostic Gold Standards: When to stick with X-rays and when the MRI or new VIBE sequences are non-negotiable. The "Quarterback" Approach: How to build a multidisciplinary team involving dietitians, endocrinologists, and physical therapists for optimal recovery. Footwear & Biomechanics: The truth about minimalist shoes, orthotics, and why "low step rates" might be increasing your injury risk. Featured Guest: Dr. Christian Muller is a Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician at Northwell Health. He completed his fellowship at the University of Alabama, Birmingham, where he covered a diverse range of collegiate sports.

    52 min

  2. JAN 9

    Mastering Posterior Instability: From the "Lightbulb Sign" to Reverse Hill-Sachs Repair

    Is it a frozen shoulder, or is it a missed posterior dislocation? In this episode of the Sports Medicine Research Rundown, Tim Tyler and Rob Shapiro sit down with Dr. Alex Volpi (Orthopedic Surgeon, Optum Pro Health) to demystify one of the most challenging diagnoses in the shoulder complex: Posterior Shoulder Instability. While posterior instability makes up only ~5-10% of instability cases, it is frequently misdiagnosed as rotator cuff pathology or adhesive capsulitis. Dr. Volpi breaks down the critical "signal vs. noise" diagnostic cues, including the mechanism of injury (seizures vs. offensive linemen), the "Lightbulb Sign" on X-ray, and the utility of the Jerk and Kim tests. We also go deep into the surgical evolution—debating the Modified McLaughlin procedure versus the modern humeral head allograft—and outline the specific rehab protocols necessary to protect the posterior labrum post-op. Key Takeaways: The Diagnostic Trap: Why posterior dislocations are often missed and misdiagnosed as frozen shoulder. Clinical Pearls: How to perform and interpret the Jerk Test and Kim Test for subtle instability. Surgical Strategy: Understanding the Reverse Hill-Sachs lesion and why Dr. Volpi prefers Allograft reconstruction over the McLaughlin procedure. Rehab Restrictions: Why the standard "sling position" might be dangerous for posterior repairs and when to introduce active external rotation. Topics & Timestamps: (00:00) Intro & Guest Welcome (08:50) Anterior vs. Posterior Instability Incidence (12:40) Mechanisms of Injury: Seizures vs. Microtrauma in Athletes (17:45) How to Reduce a Posterior Dislocation (and when NOT to) (21:00) Special Tests: The Jerk Test & Kim Test (36:30) Imaging Secrets: The "Lightbulb Sign" (38:30) Surgical Debate: Modified McLaughlin vs. Humeral Head Allograft (47:30) Post-Op Rehab: Sling positioning and Range of Motion Guest Bio:Dr. Alex Volpi is an Orthopedic Surgeon at Optum Pro Health in New York/Long Island, specializing in sports medicine and shoulder/elbow surgery. A graduate of Wake Forest and Drexel University, he completed his residency at the prestigious Lenox Hill Hospital and fellowship at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic. Resources: Paper Discussed: Posterior Shoulder Instability: Spectrum of Presentation and Treatment of Outcomes in Three Cases (Birmingham, England). Connect with Dr. Volpi: Optum Pro Health (Lake Success, NY) Disclaimer:Content is for educational purposes and not medical advice. Consult a professional for personal health decisions.

    50 min

  3. 11/26/2025

    Concussion Management 2025: SCAT6, Biomarkers, and Return-to-Sport Guidelines | The Sports Medicine Research Rundown - Ep. 16

    Is the "dark room" recovery method officially dead? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Teo Mendez, Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine Specialist at NY Orthopedics, to deconstruct the latest evolution in concussion management. We move beyond basic definitions to explore the pathophysiology of the "energy crisis" in the brain and why active recovery is replacing strict rest. Dr. Mendez breaks down the 6th International Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport (Amsterdam 2022), the utility of the SCAT6, and the nuance of sideline decision-making. Whether you are an ATC on the field or a PT in the clinic, this episode provides the evidence-based roadmap for safely returning athletes to sport. Key Topics & Chapters [00:13:26] Pathophysiology: Understanding the "metabolic storm," glutamate release, and the energy crisis within the brain. [00:19:50] Sideline Assessment: Recognizing red flags, linear vs. rotational forces, and why you don’t need a direct blow to the head to sustain a concussion. [00:21:20] Emerging Tech: Saliva/blood biomarkers (GFAP) and the specific role of CT scans in the ER. [00:29:00] Treatment Myths: Why "cocoon therapy" (total darkness/isolation) can actually prolong symptoms and the shift toward sub-threshold aerobic exercise. [00:41:40] Prevention & Gear: Do Q-Collars, helmet covers, or neck strengthening actually reduce concussion risk? [00:48:00] The Amsterdam Statement: Key updates from the 6th International Consensus, including the new average recovery times (20 days for sport, 8 days for school). Featured Guest: Dr. Teo Mendez, MD Role: Orthopedic Surgeon at NY Orthopedics & Northwell Health Team Physician: Queens College Credentials: Dr. Mendez completed his residency at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital and his Sports Medicine Fellowship at NISMAT/Lenox Hill Hospital. He specializes in arthroscopic management of shoulder, hip, and knee injuries. Connect: NY Orthopedics Profile Resources Mentioned Article: Consensus statement on concussion in sport: the 6th International Conference on Concussion in Sport–Amsterdam, October 2022 (BJSM) Tools: SCAT6 (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool) & VOMS (Vestibular/Ocular-Motor Screening). Support the ShowIf you found this episode helpful, please leave us a 5-star review! It helps other Practitioner-Scholars find the evidence-based content they need. Subscribe: https://www.professionalseminars.com/ Follow us: @professionalseminars (instagram) Disclaimer: Content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

    43 min

  4. 10/03/2025

    Rotator Cuff Re-Tears: An Orthopedic Surgeon's Guide to Risk Factors & Surgical Decisions | The Sports Medicine Research Rundown - Ep. 15

    Why do up to 21% of rotator cuff repairs fail? In this episode, we're joined by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Hoberman, a fellowship-trained expert from the Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine, to dissect the complexities of rotator cuff re-injury and poor surgical outcomes. Dr. Hoberman provides a surgeon's insight into the critical risk factors that every physical therapist and athletic trainer must understand, including age, smoking, diabetes, and the crucial role of fatty infiltration. We explore the clinical decision-making process, from initial evaluation and special tests to determining if a tear is truly "repairable." In This Episode, You Will Learn: (03:17) Key Risk Factors for Rotator Cuff Repair Failure (05:00) Understanding Fatty Infiltration and Its Irreversible Impact (10:10) Dr. Hoberman's Clinical Exam Protocol for Suspected Tears (16:37) Modern Classification of Tears & When to Augment a Repair (24:55) The Surgeon's Algorithm: When to Choose a Repair, Balloon, SCR, or Reverse Total Shoulder (39:23) Rehab Considerations for Different Repair Types (e.g., Subscapularis vs. Supraspinatus) Connect with Dr. Hoberman: Website: https://east.optum.com/providers/alexander-hoberman/ Practice: Katonah, NY Fellowship: Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal health concerns.

    51 min

  5. 09/04/2025

    The BIGGEST Mistakes After Hip Surgery (And How to Avoid Them) with Dr. Scott Levin | The Sports Medicine Research Rundown - Ep. 14

    Are you seeing patients with persistent groin pain after a hip scope? The number one complication following hip arthroscopy is iliopsoas tendinosis, but why does it happen and how can it be avoided? In this episode, Tim Tyler sits down with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Scott Levin of Somers Orthopedics to discuss the critical nuances of hip arthroscopy. They explore the most common complications following procedures for labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), starting with the most crucial step: proper patient selection. Dr. Levin shares his comprehensive evaluation process, discusses the art and science of FAI bone resection, and reveals the intraoperative techniques he uses to prevent nerve issues and other setbacks. Tim and Rob also weigh in on evidence-based rehab protocols, challenging traditional thinking on weight-bearing, bracing, and range of motion to accelerate a safe return to sport. Key Topics Discussed: (0:54) The #1 mistake to avoid: Why patient selection is more critical than surgical skill.(2:40) The "C Sign" and other key physical exam findings for diagnosing intra-articular hip pain.(9:38) Why 69% of asymptomatic individuals have labral tears on MRI and how to use X-rays to identify the right surgical candidates. (16:30) A surgeon's inside story on preventing pudendal nerve palsy using the "Pink Pad" technique. (22:31) The fine art of bone resection for FAI: The risk of taking too little vs. the fear of taking too much.(29:48) Are post-op hip braces and range of motion restrictions necessary? A look at the latest evidence.(34:51) The "Kiss of Death" Exercise: The one movement to avoid at all costs in early hip scope rehab. (42:51) Timelines for returning to complex sports like golf and physically demanding jobs. Guest Information: Dr. Scott Levin is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine at Somers Orthopedics. He serves patients throughout Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Connecticut. Website: scottlevinmd.com Practice Phone: (845) 278-8400 Resources Mentioned: Susan Y Kwiecien, Milan P Mueller, John J Grossi, Timothy F Tyler, Malachy P McHugh, Gregory J Galano, Accelerated rehabilitation and return to sport after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome is safe and effective, Journal of Hip Preservation Surgery, Volume 12, Issue 1, January 2025, Pages 33–39, https://doi.org/10.1093/jhps/hnae044 Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns.

    51 min

  6. 08/07/2025

    The Controversy Behind The Treatment of Grade III AC Joint Separations | The Sports Medicine Research Rundown - Ep. 13

    Should athletes with Grade III AC separations go under the knife or trust structured rehab. Tim Tyler and Dr Steven Lee break down the research and turn it into practical decisions for the clinic and training room. 🚨 Surgery or Rehab for Grade-III Shoulder Separations? Here’s the 20-Year Data 🚨 In this episode of The Sports Medicine Research Rundown, host Tim Tyler, PT, ATC, grills orthopedic surgeon Steven Lee, MD, on: ​ the newest outcome studies comparing surgery vs. conservative care ​ why weighted X-rays are falling out of favor ​ real-world complication rates of today’s “anatomic” reconstructions ​ Dr Lee’s low-tech, low-cost suture-button technique (zero hardware removals) ​ evidence-based return-to-play timelines for collision athletes ==================== ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Intro & guest bio 2:30 Rockwood refresher + imaging pearls 7:45 Is the weighted film dead? 15:00 20-year outcome data on Grade-III injuries 24:30 Step-by-step of Dr Lee’s CC fixation 32:00 Complication deep dive 40:15 Rehab milestones & RTP criteria 48:00 Live Q&A 55:00 Key takeaways ==================== 🎯 TOP TAKEAWAYS ​ Acute vs. delayed surgery = SAME long-term function ​ Anatomic reconstructions carry ~30 % complication risk ​ Stress views add noise, not clarity ​ Expect 24-26 weeks to full-contact clearance ​ Shared decision-making is essential for in-season athletes 📚 FURTHER READING – Moatshe et al., Clin Orthop Relat Res 2024 – Cleary et al., Am J Sports Med 2024 – Shaw et al., J SES 2018 – Kovács et al., Arthroscopy 2025 – Gawel et al., Sports Health 2021 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for evidence-based deep dives 🎧 Listen on the go: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts #SportsMedicine #ACJoint #ShoulderInjury #PhysicalTherapy #OrthopedicSurgery

    51 min

  7. 06/12/2025

    ACL Surgery Update: Preventing Re-Tears with LET Procedure (Dr. Kristin Hopkins) | The Sports Medicine Research Rundown - Ep. 12

    In this month's "Sports Medicine Research Rundown," we welcome Dr. Kristin Hopkins, Team Physician for Stony Brook University athletics. Dr. Hopkins, an acclaimed orthopedic surgeon, shares insights on cutting-edge ACL reconstruction techniques, specifically the Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis (LET) procedures. Learn why these "LEAPs" are becoming crucial for preventing re-tears in high-risk patients, especially adolescent athletes. We break down the science, discuss surgical considerations, and explore rehabilitation expectations. Topics Covered: 0:03 – Welcoming Dr. Kristin Hopkins1:08 – Introduction to ALL (Anterior Lateral Ligament) and LET (Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis) procedures2:05 – The concept of LEAPs (Lateral Extra-Articular Procedures) and Segond Fracture3:05 – LET technique using the IT band and its benefits over ALL3:56 – Increasing commonality of LET procedures and differing surgeon approaches6:21 – Indications for LET High-grade pivot shift, high-risk patients (re-tears, contralateral tears, hyperlaxity, adolescent athletes)8:16 – Risks and considerations: Increased stiffness and initial pain9:16 – Over-constraining and potential for arthritis (long-term unknown)11:42 – ACL injury and arthritis predisposition13:22 – Graft choices: Quad and BTB vs. Hamstring13:34 – Evidence supporting LEAP effectiveness in preventing re-rupture15:02 – Discussion of the article: "Impact of lateral extraarticular procedure augmentation on rerupture risk and tegner activity scale outcomes in adolescent ACL patients" by Muhammad Musa (AGSM, 2024)17:53 – Rehabilitation protocols: Full extension, early weight-bearing, and prehab importance20:54 – Study results: Significant decrease in re-ruptures with LEAP (18 vs. 3)21:40 – No increased re-operations or arthrofibrosis with LEAP22:02 – No difference in return to sport timelines or outcome scores24:02 – Typical return to play around 8-9 months24:25 – Bracing for the first season back25:25 – Bracing for offensive linemen in football26:59 – Study limitations: Omission of pre-operative rotational instability and lack of randomization27:28 – Why LEAP isn't for everyone28:00 – Hardware irritation: Use of all-suture anchors28:26 – Will LEAP become standard for all comers?28:59 – Case selection for LEAP: Young, high-level athletes in pivot/plant sports30:16 – Anecdotal return to play outcomes with LEAP patients Guest Bio: Dr. Kristin Hopkins is a Team Physician for Stony Brook University athletics, specializing in contact sports like lacrosse and football. She is a sports medicine fellow graduate of the Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma. Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

    35 min

  8. 05/08/2025

    Beyond Instability: Mastering Complex Patellofemoral Maltracking & Surgical Solutions | The Sports Medicine Research Rundown - Ep. 11

    Join us on The Sports Medicine Research Rundown for a deep dive into the world of complex patellofemoral pain and instability. Host Tim and Rob are joined by Dr. Alexander Golant, an NYU orthopedic sports medicine surgeon, who shares his expert approach to diagnosing and treating these challenging anterior knee conditions. This episode explores key topics including: Identifying patellofemoral maltracking and using special tests like the J sign and lateral tilt. The role of specific imaging views (like lateral X-rays) in assessing trochlear dysplasia. Understanding the rationale behind combined surgical procedures (Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy (TTO), MPFL reconstruction, Trochleoplasty, lateral release) using an "a la carte" philosophy. Navigating post-operative expectations, including managing arthrofibrosis and achieving full range of motion. Expert guidance on return to sport protocols after complex patellofemoral surgery.Whether you're a physical therapist, athletic trainer, or orthopedic professional, this episode provides invaluable insights into optimizing care for complex patellofemoral patients. #SportsMedicine #Orthopedics #KneePain #Patellofemoral #KneeInstability #PatellarTracking #KneeSurgery #TTO #MPFL #Trochleoplasty #PhysicalTherapy #Rehab #SportsRehab #AthleticTraining #ReturnToSport #Arthrofibrosis #MedicalPodcast #SportsMedResearch

    56 min
See All (18)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Sports Medicine Research Rundown is a monthly podcast that dives deep into the latest research and clinical practices in sports medicine surgery and rehabilitation. Hosted by physical therapist Tim Tyler, each episode features an expert guest in the field who discusses a specific orthopedic surgery, pathology or treatment approach. The premise is to provide a comprehensive rundown covering the history and evolution of the procedure, current best practices, surgical techniques, rehabilitation protocols, and a look at future directions. Guests share their extensive knowledge and experience.

Information

You Might Also Like