Ask the Expert

Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association (SRNA)
  • 4.9 (19)
  • MEDICINE
Ask the Expert

The goal of our “Ask the Expert” podcast series is to share the latest research and information on rare neuroimmune disorders and provide an avenue for individuals diagnosed with these disorders and their family members to ask questions to experts who specialize in these disorders. The podcasts are moderated based on questions submitted by our community. We would like to hear from you. If there are topics that you would like us to address in our podcasts, you can share your thoughts by sending an email to info@wearesrna.org and please use SRNA Podcast in the subject.

  1. 5D AGO

    1302. Pelvic Floor Therapy for Bladder and Bowel Management

    Krissy Dilger of SRNA moderated this "Ask the Expert" episode, “Pelvic Floor Therapy for Bladder and Bowel Management,” featuring Jessica Ekberg, a certified pelvic floor therapist. Jessica explained the various conditions treated by pelvic floor therapy, emphasizing the importance of posture and breathing [00:01:05]. She discussed how pelvic floor therapy is adapted for individuals with rare neuroimmune disorders [00:04:59]. The discussion included both physical exercises and emotional work integral to the therapy [00:07:42]. Practical tips for seeking pelvic floor therapy and insurance considerations were also covered [00:10:42]. The episode concluded with encouragement to explore this underutilized service [00:19:23]. 00:00 Introduction 02:03 Understanding Pelvic Floor Therapy 04:59 Pelvic Floor Therapy for Rare Neuroimmune Disorders 07:42 The Emotional and Mental Aspects of Pelvic Floor Therapy 10:42 Practical Insights and Patient Experiences 19:23 Getting Started with Pelvic Floor Therapy 27:38 Conclusion Jessica Ekberg, OTR/L is a business owner, avid runner, former pants peer, prolapse owner, postpartum pain sufferer, mom of two, and certified pelvic floor therapist. Jessica is extremely passionate about helping men and women be the best version of themselves they can. Her goal is to bring Pelvic Floor Health discussions to the forefront of what she does, to help dispel myths and educate about facts. The lack of information and effective treatment in the community can leave people suffering in silence. Now that she has been working in pelvic health for almost five years, she realizes just how critical pelvic health is to all of us. She started her pelvic health journey after experiencing “a lot of problems” when returning to running post baby. Jessica’s advice is to stop ignoring or putting off taking care of yourself. The core makes up the foundation of the body and if it is not functioning properly, it can impact several systems within the body. Some of the problems that clients present with are incontinence, hernias, pelvic pain including hips/back/genital/rectal/tailbone, respiratory difficulties, heavy/painful periods, menopause, endometriosis, pre/during/postpartum care, constipation, and sexual (including erectile) dysfunction. Jessica’s approach involves assessing the whole body, putting the puzzle together in order to determine the driver of the dysfunction and then developing a treatment plan to solve the problem. Her goal is to help clients return to doing all of the things they love, as quickly and safely as possible.

    29 min

  2. FEB 18

    1301. Vaccines and Immunosuppression

    In this episode of "Ask the Expert," Dr. Eoin Flanagan joined Dr. GG deFiebre of SRNA. Dr. Flanagan explained how immunosuppressive medications impact the immune system and the efficacy of vaccines [00:02:45]. He discussed the primary concerns and risks of vaccinating individuals on these therapies, including avoiding live vaccines and the need for additional booster doses [00:04:52]. Dr. Flanagan also talked about the recommended vaccines for those with conditions like NMOSD or MOGAD, and underlined the importance of getting vaccinated to prevent severe infections [00:09:40]. He addressed common misconceptions and emphasized the role of healthcare providers in educating and supporting their patients regarding vaccinations [00:15:32]. Eoin Flanagan, MB, BCh is a Professor of Neurology and Consultant in the departments of Neurology and Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN). He completed his medical school training at University College Dublin in Ireland in 2005. He did a medical residency in Ireland and then completed neurology residency, fellowships in neuroimmunology and a masters in clinical and translational science at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN). He works in the Autoimmune Neurology and Multiple Sclerosis Clinics and the Neuroimmunology Laboratory at the Mayo Clinic. His clinical expertise and research are focused on inflammatory myelopathies and their imaging patterns, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody associated disorder, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, autoimmune encephalitis, paraneoplastic neurologic disorders, and multiple sclerosis. He is principal investigator on an NIH RO1 grant studying MOG antibody associated disorder. 00:00 Introduction 00:47 Understanding Immunosuppressants and Vaccines 01:28 Primary Concerns with Vaccinating Immunosuppressed Patients 02:30 Recommended Vaccines for Immunosuppressed Patients 07:11 Timing and Effectiveness of Vaccinations 08:21 Measuring Vaccine Response 09:24 Addressing Missed Doses and Safety Considerations 16:41 Public Health Implications and Patient Advocacy 17:56 Advice for Vaccine-Hesitant Patients 19:06 Healthcare Providers' Role in Vaccination 20:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    21 min

  3. 11/08/2024

    1216. Transcutaneous Spinal Stimulation

    In this "Ask the Expert" episode, Dr. GG deFiebre of SRNA was joined by Dr. Rebecca Martin, who detailed the mechanism and benefits of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (TSS). Dr. Martin explained how TSS, a non-invasive method, aims to amplify spinal cord excitability and improve neurological functions like movement and sensation [00:01:25]. She contrasted TSS with implanted spinal stimulators, noting their respective applications and advantages [00:02:34]. Dr. Martin shared the promising outcomes of TSS in clinical trials, emphasizing its potential for widespread clinical use, and she urged patients to inquire about it at their clinics [00:05:42]. You can read her group's recent paper here: "Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation Enables Recovery of Walking in Children with Acute Flaccid Myelitis" https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/11/9/1116 Rebecca Martin, OTR/L, OTD, CPAM received her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from Boston University in 2001 and her Occupational Therapy Doctorate from Rocky Mountain University of Allied Health Professions in 2008. Prior to joining the Kennedy Krieger Institute, Dr. Martin worked in brain injury rehabilitation in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Martin joined Kennedy Krieger in 2005 as a Senior Occupational Therapist in the International Center for Spinal Cord Injury. Since 2010, Dr. Martin has been the Manager of Clinical Education and Training at ICSCI and is responsible for program development, staff training, and oversight of the clinical research program. Dr. Martin speaks nationally on topics related to Activity-Based Rehabilitation; she has taught many continuing education courses for rehabilitation professionals in the areas of neurological pathology, rehabilitation, and research. She has been the principal investigator and co-investigator for grants from the Paralyzed Veterans of America Education Foundation and Department of Defense to develop, promote, and disseminate an activity-based restorative therapy training program and curriculum. In 2011, Dr. Martin was awarded the Leader in Spinal Cord Injury Care by the International Center for Spinal Cord Injury at Kennedy Krieger. From 2011-2016, Dr. Martin served as a Committee Chair for the annual Contemporary Trends in Spinal Cord Injury Management Symposium at Kennedy Krieger. As a consultant for SwissStim, she has helped create clinical use guidelines for training and documentation. In 2015, Dr. Martin was invited to serve on the NIH and NINDS Committee to establish Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury Common Data Elements.

    25 min

  4. 11/04/2024

    1215. Women's Health within Neuroimmunology

    In this "Ask the Expert" episode titled, "Women's Health within Neuroimmunology," Dr. Sonia Singh joined Krissy Dilger of SRNA to share women's health concerns within the context of neuroimmunology, focusing on issues like fertility and pregnancy for those with rare neuroimmune disorders [00:01:20]. Dr. Singh discussed how certain conditions, such as neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and autoimmune encephalitis, and medications could impact fertility [00:03:45]. They also explored the increased risks of relapse during and after pregnancy and the importance of coordinated care between neurologists and obstetricians [00:07:10]. Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of teamwork during pregnancy to ensure optimal outcomes for both mother and child [00:21:45]. Sonia Kaur Singh, MD is a Neurologist and Assistant Professor of Neurology at Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Charleston who specializes in Neuroimmunology. Dr. Singh obtained her medical degree from Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore in Southern India. After graduation, she worked with dementia specialists in India studying dementia in culturally and linguistically diverse populations. She completed her neurology residency at University of Texas Health Science Center Houston (UTHealth Houston) in the Texas Medical Center. During residency, she was involved with innovative learning strategies including a structural competency curriculum and graduated with the prestigious Frank Yatsu Award for Excellence in Clinical Neurology. After residency, she completed a one-year fellowship in Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology from UTHealth Houston where she was actively involved in medical education and clinical trials. Dr. Singh has a special interest in women’s health and cognition in neuroimmune conditions.

    15 min

  5. 10/29/2024

    1214. Self Identity and Finding Meaning Following Diagnosis

    In this "Ask the Expert" episode titled, "Self Identity and Finding Meaning Following Diagnosis," Krissy Dilger of SRNA spoke with Susan Y. Wegener, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker, about coping with a chronic diagnosis and its emotional adjustments, referencing Kübler-Ross’ stages of grief [00:03:45]. Susan discussed the importance of self identity transformation post-diagnosis and the need for patience and self-compassion in finding new ways to move forward [00:08:34]. The value of inner strength, setting priorities, and support groups for reducing isolation and fostering compassion was emphasized [00:15:20]. The discussion concluded with a focus on post-traumatic growth, highlighting greater life appreciation and mental flexibility as key coping strategies [00:16:01]. Susan Y. Wegener, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker who maintains a private psychotherapy practice in Austin, TX. Her clinical practice specializes in work with individuals coping with chronic medical diagnoses. She completed her undergraduate degree, in Psychology, from Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs N.Y., 1993 and her graduate degree, in Social Work from Columbia University, New York City in 1995. In addition to her private practice, she has worked in multiple medical settings throughout her career and helped to empower and support individuals from diagnosis through the adjustment process. She became a Partner in Care for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in 2017 and is passionate about her work with individuals diagnosed with MS and various other neurological diagnoses. In her free time, she enjoys singing in a local chorus, cooking, swimming, and spending time with her family. Please see the following link to her workbook “Hold on to Hope.” https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Hope-Overview-Strategies-Chronic/dp/1512218715 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:37 Meet the Expert: Susan Wagner 01:00 Coping with a Chronic Diagnosis 01:47 The Emotional Adjustment Process 05:36 Understanding Self Identity Post-Diagnosis 08:34 Dealing with Denial 10:39 Coping Strategies for Shifting Self Identity 14:08 Finding Meaning and Purpose 14:26 Exploring the Impact of Diagnosis 15:25 Reflecting on Values and Strengths 16:06 Coping Strategies for Finding Meaning 16:29 The Role of Relationships and Support Systems 18:05 Prioritizing Self-Care and Realistic Goals 20:04 Finding Meaning in Suffering 20:15 The Concept of Post-Traumatic Growth 24:52 The Importance of Stillness and Self-Compassion 28:31 Mental Flexibility and Creative Thinking 30:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    32 min
  6. 1213. Operant Conditioning Rehabilitation Studies

    09/06/2024

    1213. Operant Conditioning Rehabilitation Studies

    In this episode titled, "Operant Conditioning Rehabilitation Studies," part of the "Ask the Expert: Research Edition" series, Krissy Dilger of SRNA was joined by Dr. Aiko Thompson. Dr. Thompson explained the fundamental principles of operant conditioning and its application in enhancing motor function and sensory pathways in individuals with spinal cord damage due to neuroimmune disorders [00:01:02]. They delved into specific trials aimed at improving spasticity, foot drop, and neuropathic pain, highlighting current studies and ongoing trials [00:02:28]. Dr. Thompson shared details on how eligible participants can take part in these studies and the promising potential outcomes [00:13:39]. Aiko Thompson, PhD is a neuroscientist and an associate professor in the College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC. She did her PhD with Dr. Richard Stein at the University of Alberta, Canada, and then did a postdoc training with Dr. Jonathan Wolpaw at the Wadsworth Center in Albany, NY. During her PhD, she was engaged in non-invasive human neurophysiology / plasticity research related to the use of FES (functional electrical stimulation) foot drop simulator. She also started investigating normal and abnormal spinal reflex modulation during walking and other dynamic movements in people with and without chronic CNS disorders. Then, during her postdoc, she developed the human H-reflex operant conditioning protocol. In 2007, Dr. Thompson established her own lab. Since then, she has been working on understanding CNS plasticity in human sensorimotor control and how to guide the plasticity to help restore useful function in people after CNS damage. Her current research focuses on investigating functional roles of spinal reflexes and evaluating the CNS plasticity associated with operant conditioning of EMG evoked responses (e.g., spinal reflexes and motor evoked potential to transcranial magnetic stimulation) in people with SCI and other neuromuscular disorders. Her ongoing research is funded by NIH, DoD, South Carolina funds, and private endorsements. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:02 Understanding Operant Conditioning 02:28 Background and Development of Operant Conditioning Trials 05:33 Current Research and Clinical Trials 09:43 Setup and Participation in Studies 11:50 Study Results and Future Directions 13:39 How to Get Involved 14:29 Acknowledgements and Sponsor Information

    16 min

  7. 08/07/2024

    1212. The Role of Physicians and Patients in Legislative Advocacy

    In this episode of "Ask the Expert," hosted by Krissy Dilger of SRNA, Dr. Shuvro Roy talked about the importance of legislative advocacy in healthcare [00:01:10]. Dr. Roy discussed how physicians can engage in legislative advocacy by sharing their practice stories and providing technical expertise [00:05:05]. He emphasized the crucial role of patients in advocacy, highlighting that their personal stories carry significant weight with legislators [00:07:45]. Dr. Roy also shared examples of successful advocacy efforts, such as telemedicine policy changes and Medicare reforms, contributing to better patient outcomes [00:15:10]. Shuvro Roy, MD is an assistant professor of Neurology at the University of Washington, specializing in Neuroimmunology. He completed his neuroimmunology and neuroinfectious disease fellowship at Johns Hopkins University. He graduated from Medical School at Ohio State University and completed his neurology residency at University of California, Los Angeles. Dr. Roy is actively engaged with a number of projects to improve access to care, healthcare inequality, and patient safety for people with MS and related conditions, with a special interest in neuromyelitis optica and MOG antibody disease. His primary research focus examines how to better leverage health systems to understand and treat neuroimmunologic disorders. He chose to work with people who have MS and rare neuroimmunologic conditions because of the opportunity to build longstanding patient-provider relationships and to help his patients thrive in the face of challenging lifelong conditions.

    36 min
  8. 1211. Community Spotlight - Kim Harrison

    07/29/2024

    1211. Community Spotlight - Kim Harrison

    In this episode of "Ask the Expert, Community Spotlight Edition," Lydia Dubose of SRNA spoke with Kim Harrison about her journey with transverse myelitis (TM), adaptive sports, and challenges she has faced since her diagnosis [00:01:25]. Kim highlighted the importance of community support systems in her life [00:11:38]. She discussed managing symptoms, navigating social situations, and raising awareness for rare neuroimmune disorders [00:17:39]. Finally, Kim shared her inspiring story of completing the 500-mile Camino de Santiago in her adaptive wheelchair, demonstrating resilience and determination [00:23:49]. Originally from Atlanta, GA, Kim Harrison currently resides in St. Augustine, FL. She contracted transverse myelitis (TM) in 2004 while on a business trip to Dallas, TX. In 2012, she partitioned her State Senator, Donzella James, to declare February 15th as Transverse Myelitis Awareness Day. She is on the mayor’s accessibility committee, a United Spinal Association North Florida Chapter Advocacy Representative, a Christopher and Dana Reeve Peer Mentor, and a volunteer at Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital. Kim organized a Walk-Run-N-Roll and has been a support group leader with SRNA. She has been on the Braves Stadium ADA advisory board, has participated in ROCH Roll on Capitol Hill with United Spinal Association, and has advocated for wheelchair users’ rights for activity based physical therapy with Warrior Momz. Kim is the adaptive athlete who rolled the 500-mile Camino de Santiago in Spain with her adaptive GRIT Freedom wheelchair. She is 65 and lives in an aged community with her husband of 38 years, Brian. You can learn more about the organization I'll Push You and Kim's journey on the Camino de Santiago here: https://www.accessiblecamino.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/1051370995944241/

    1h 16m
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4.9
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

The goal of our “Ask the Expert” podcast series is to share the latest research and information on rare neuroimmune disorders and provide an avenue for individuals diagnosed with these disorders and their family members to ask questions to experts who specialize in these disorders. The podcasts are moderated based on questions submitted by our community. We would like to hear from you. If there are topics that you would like us to address in our podcasts, you can share your thoughts by sending an email to info@wearesrna.org and please use SRNA Podcast in the subject.

Information

  • Creator
    Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association (SRNA)
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2025
  • Episodes
    150
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 062634
  • Show Website
    Ask the Expert

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