Rehab and Performance Lab: A Medbridge Podcast

Medbridge Podcasts

A Medbridge podcast where challenging clinical questions are explored with subject matter experts as they unpack research and engaging cases in the field of orthopedics and sports to equip physical therapists and athletic trainers with actionable takeaways. To get continuing education credit for each episode and bonus resources, search for the episodes on medbridge.com and complete the accompanying quiz. If you enjoy the show, please hit the follow button! IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbridge/

  1. 3d ago

    Rehab and Performance Lab Episode 27: ACL Graft Choice: Is There a New Gold Standard?

    Join host Phil Plisky, PT, DSc, ATC, CSCS, as he sits down with Matt Daggett, DO, MBA, a dual fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and leading member of the international SANTI research group. Together, they explore the evolving landscape of ACL reconstruction, moving beyond traditional graft debates to discuss the critical role of lateral extra-articular procedures (LEAP) in reducing reinjury rates. You’ll gain expert perspective on individualizing graft selection—including the promising rectus tendon autograft—and why addressing the "lateral side" of the knee is essential for long-term stability in high risk athletes. From debunking trends such as the cross-bracing protocol to mastering criteria-based return-to-sport transitions, this conversation provides the practical, evidence-based tools you need to optimize patient outcomes. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around graft selection for ACL reconstruction and the use of lateral extra-articular procedures (LEAP) to improve rotational stability and reduce graft failureApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address rehabilitation progression, return-to-sport timing, and the management of arthrogenic muscular inhibition (AMI) following ACL reconstructionSolve patient case scenarios involving ACL reconstruction graft selection based on patient demographics, sport-specific demands, and individual risk factorsTimestamps (00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to ACL reconstruction and graft selection(00:02:18) Diverse perspectives in orthopedic surgery(00:04:20) Types of grafts for ACL reconstruction(00:08:45) Concomitant procedures and lateral knee stability(00:11:19) An overview of LEAP(00:15:25) Understanding combined instabilities in ACL injuries(00:18:44) Consensus statements and recommendations(00:21:48) The evolution of ACL surgery techniques(00:26:26) Cross-bracing protocol: a critical review(00:28:50) Decision-making in surgical procedures(00:32:18) Graft choices: hamstring, quad, and rectus(00:35:05) Rehabilitation perspectives and early activation(00:41:10) Return to sport: psychological readiness and timeframes(00:46:58) Key takeaways and future innovationsRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

    53 min

  2. May 15

    Rehab and Performance Lab Episode 26: Dry Needling Research: Why Are the Results So Inconsistent?

    Dr. Edo Zylstra, PT, DPT, a leader in the development and teaching of dry needling techniques, joins host Phil Plisky for a deep dive into one of the most debated modalities in rehabilitation. Phil and Edo revisit decades of clinical experience, challenge assumptions in the research, and explore why dry needling may succeed—or fall short—depending on how and when it’s applied. Together, they discuss the gap between controlled trials and clinical practice and offer you a compelling neurological lens for rethinking musculoskeletal care. If you’ve ever wondered why the literature on dry needling is all over the map, this conversation is for you. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around how to improve clinical effectiveness with dry needling and other manual therapy toolsApply evidence-based, practical strategies to address patient symptoms by assessing and treating underlying mechanismsSolve patient case scenarios involving the integration of a neurological lens in orthopedic assessment and interventionTimestamps (00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to dry needling(00:05:17) Understanding dry needling: physiology and mechanism(00:08:12) Clinical applications and considerations for dry needling(00:21:30) Research insights: efficacy and limitations of dry needling(00:32:50) Case study: practical application of dry needling(00:38:24) Common misapplications of dry needling(00:45:45) Key takeaways and final thoughts on dry needlingRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

    52 min

  3. Apr 15

    Rehab and Performance Lab Episode 25: Is 3×10 the Best? A Modern Approach to Strength in Rehab (Live Podcast Recording)

    This is a recording of a previously hosted live webinar event. Polling and question submission features are not available for this recording. Format and structure may differ from those of standard podcasts. Join host Phil Plisky, PT, DSc, ATC, CSCS, and strength expert Daniel Lorenz, DPT, PT, ATC, LAT, CSCS, as they challenge the traditional 3×10 status quo and dive into the physiological necessity of true tissue loading. You’ll explore how to move past clinical guesstimation by using objective feedback loops and functional testing to bridge the gap between initial rehab and high-level performance. Learn actionable strategies for determining appropriate intensity, along with set and rep schemes that build genuine load tolerance for your patients. Tune in to learn why it’s time to “test, don’t guess” and how to safely apply progressive overload to optimize patient outcomes. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around clinically relevant loading approachesApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address the challenge of proper load progression that is mindful of the patient’s history and current status, while also applying strength training principles to adequately build the patient’s load toleranceSolve patient case scenarios involving how to properly apply the principles of progressive overload in rehabilitationTimestamps (00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to loading in rehab(00:03:20) Understanding the importance of loading(00:05:52) Challenges in loading patients(00:08:45) Effective loading strategies(00:17:15) Balancing loading with patient safety(00:25:02) Teaching patients to self-load after rehab(00:27:36) Functional testing in rehabilitation(00:36:46) Case scenarios(00:42:20) Key takeaways for effective rehabilitation(00:44:50) Rest periods and their impact(00:47:32) Tailoring exercise for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome(00:50:18) The importance of reps and failure levels(00:56:16) Isometrics and pain management in rehab(00:58:48) Conclusion and resources Rehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

    1h 3m

  4. Mar 13

    Rehab and Performance Lab Episode 24: Applying Performance Principles: How Do You Modify for the Rehab Setting?

    Robert Panariello, MS, PT, ATC, CSCS, respected physical therapist, strength coach, and former NFL Director of Health Performance and Innovation, joins host Phil Plisky to tackle a big question: How do we bring elite performance principles into the rehab setting? Together, Rob and Phil explore the art and science behind adapting strength, speed, and plyometric progressions for patients recovering from ACL reconstruction and other injuries. You’ll hear real-world insights on Vermeil’s hierarchy, programming plyometrics, and building true return-to-play readiness. Whether you’re early in your career or refining your advanced clinical skills, this conversation helps you reimagine how you apply performance principles—starting day one. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around the application of Vermeil’s hierarchy of athletic development modified for ACL rehabilitation to guide progression planningApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address plyometric exercise design considerations for athletes with differing body masses in the sports rehabilitation settingSolve patient case scenarios involving the clinical progression and return-to-sport decision-making for ACL athletes using Vermeil’s hierarchy frameworkTimestamps (00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to athletic development in rehab(00:02:30) The evolution of rehab techniques(00:04:19) Load and velocity in rehabilitation(00:07:35) Understanding high intensity in rehab(00:08:48) The pyramid of athletic development(00:12:14) The role of isometrics in rehab(00:20:10) Testing and assessing athletic performance(00:24:53) Applying Olympic lifts in rehab(00:28:05) Understanding ACL rehabilitation and strength training(00:33:32) The importance of agility and early movement(00:35:25) Plyometrics: balancing load and recovery(00:45:00) A comprehensive approach to ACL recovery(00:49:50) Key takeaways for effective rehabilitationRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

    55 min

  5. Feb 13

    Rehab and Performance Lab Episode 23: Running Foot Strike, Cadence, and Shoes: What Does the Research Actually Say?

    COL (Ret) Don Goss, DPT, PhD, OCS, ATC, a biomechanics researcher and former US Army physical therapist, joins host Phil Plisky to bring clarity to some of the most debated topics in running rehab. Together, they unpack what the research actually says about cadence, foot strike, and footwear, and how that translates to what you should be doing in the clinic. From military data to practical gait retraining tools, this episode gives you a reality check on what matters most for helping runners recover and perform. Whether you're skeptical about minimalist shoes or unsure when to tweak cadence, you’ll walk away with insights you can put to use immediately. Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence around gait retraining strategies for managing running-related injuriesDetermine the clinical situations in which cadence modification and footwear adjustment provide the greatest benefit for runners with pain or previous injurySolve patient case scenarios involving injured runners using video-based gait analysis and biomechanical retraining principlesTimestamps (00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to running gait and its importance(00:03:45) Understanding running cadence and its impact(00:10:00) The role of footwear in running injuries(00:15:44) Gait retraining: the CLASS program explained(00:26:20) Case studies and practical applications(00:35:57) Key takeaways and future directionsRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

    46 min

  6. Jan 15

    Rehab and Performance Lab Episode 22: Imaging for Clinicians: When Should You Refer, Review, or Reconsider?

    Lance Mabry, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, an assistant professor at High Point University and a seasoned imaging educator, joins host Phil Plisky for a conversation that challenges the status quo around imaging in rehab. Together, they explore how clinicians like you can step into a more informed, active role when it comes to referring, reviewing, and communicating about diagnostic imaging. You'll hear practical insights that help you avoid common missteps, reduce patient harm, and advocate for evidence-based, ethical decision-making. Whether you're a PT, AT, OT, or SLP, this episode equips you to better navigate the gray areas of imaging with confidence. Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence on asymptomatic findings in diagnostic imaging to support ethical and informed decision-makingApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address and communicate missed or overlooked radiologic findings in a way that enhances interprofessional collaborationSolve patient case scenarios involving signs of cervical myelopathy by identifying implications for performance and participation in meaningful daily activitiesTimestamps (00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) The importance of imaging in rehabilitation(00:00:22) Introducing Dr. Lace Mabry(00:08:20) Understanding when to refer for imaging(00:15:05) The role of rehabilitation providers in imaging decisions(00:18:12) Effective communication with radiologists(00:29:00) Interpreting imaging findings and patient communication(00:45:30) Case study: successful imaging referral and outcomes(00:50:36) Three important takeawaysRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

    57 min

  7. 12/15/2025

    Rehab and Performance Lab Episode 21: Cancellations and Exercise Noncompliance: Can RTM Help Us?

    Dr. Anang Chokshi, a dual board-certified PT and one of the architects behind remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) codes, joins digital health expert Dr. Jon Ide-Don for a timely conversation with host Phil Plisky. Together, they explore why patients cancel, ghost HEPs, and drop off care—and how rehab professionals like you can change that. From rethinking engagement beyond “compliance” to weaving digital tools into every day practice, this episode offers real-world strategies that can elevate your outcomes and your patient relationships. Tune in as we ask, “Can RTM be more than just a billing code?” Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence on technology-enabled rehabilitation and its impact on patient engagementApply evidence-based strategies to implement digital tools that foster patient engagement in clinical practiceSolve patient case scenarios in which technology enhances both clinical outcomes and patient engagementTimestamps (00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Improving patient care through technology(00:04:02) Understanding patient adherence vs. engagement(00:08:59) Building trust and shared decision-making(00:13:03) Identifying barriers to exercise compliance(00:15:23) Facilitating patient engagement and success(00:18:32) Completing a plan of care(00:21:03) Addressing patient drop-off(00:23:17) The role of technology in rehabilitation(00:29:43) Defining remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM)(00:33:55) Real-world applications of remote monitoring(00:38:42) Enhancing care with remote therapeutic monitoring(00:43:47) Key takeaways for implementing RTMRehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

    52 min

  8. 11/14/2025

    Rehab and Peformance Lab Episode 20: What’s the Smartest Path Back After Shoulder Injury? (Live Podcast Recording)

    This is a recording of a previously hosted live webinar event. Polling and question submission features are not available for this recording. Format and structure may differ from those of standard podcasts. Struggling with complex shoulder cases? Bridge the gap from research to reality and get real-world answers in this special live podcast recording with experts Phil Plisky and Lenny Macrina. Building on our earlier episode, “How Do We Untangle the Evidence Around Shoulder Rehabilitation and Surgery?”, this interactive session will focus on practical strategies for restoring shoulder function—from immediate post-injury or surgery through return to throwing. In this live podcast recording, you’ll not only hear expert insights on topics such as arthrogenic muscle inhibition in the shoulder, timing of post-surgical strength testing, considerations for overhead athletes, and balancing the delicate art of restoring ROM after stabilization surgery without compromising the repair. Also, you’ll have the opportunity to submit your own questions in real time. Whether you’re curious about blood flow restriction for shoulder rehab, return-to-throwing progressions, or top clinical takeaways, this conversation is designed to provide actionable strategies you can bring directly into your practice. Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence around strength loss and testing after shoulder injury/surgeryApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address shoulder instabilitySolve patient case scenarios involving return to physical activities such as weightlifting and throwingTimestamps (00:00:00) Welcome(00:00:05) Introduction to shoulder rehab(00:03:20) Understanding arthrogenic muscle inhibition(00:10:14) The role of blood flow restriction (BFR) in rehab(00:17:22) Strength testing in shoulder rehabilitation(00:22:39) Balancing range of motion and stability(00:28:00) Empowering patients in their recovery(00:37:35) BFR and older populations(00:38:22) Strength training for overhead athletes(00:44:37) Evolution of return to throwing programs(00:48:19) The journey back to throwing(00:55:45) Key takeaways for rehabilitation Rehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/

    1h 14m
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Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

A Medbridge podcast where challenging clinical questions are explored with subject matter experts as they unpack research and engaging cases in the field of orthopedics and sports to equip physical therapists and athletic trainers with actionable takeaways. To get continuing education credit for each episode and bonus resources, search for the episodes on medbridge.com and complete the accompanying quiz. If you enjoy the show, please hit the follow button! IG: https://www.instagram.com/medbridgeteam/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medbridge/

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