The Sports Medicine Research Rundown

Professional Seminars Ltd.

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. 1d ago

    Stop Stretching the IT Band: Evidence-Based Loading Protocols for GTPS with Dr. Ferdinand Chan, MD - Ep. 21

    What do you do when a patient presents with chronic lateral hip pain that wakes them up at night? In this episode, we sit down with orthopedic surgery and sports medicine specialist Dr. Ferdinand Chan from Montefiore Medical Center to dissect Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS). Dr. Chan shares insights regarding non-operative loading strategies versus advanced endoscopic surgical solutions. We debunk old myths surrounding "trochanteric bursitis" and "tight IT bands," shifting the focus to underlying gluteus medius and minimus tendinopathies. Dr. Chan maps out his exact clinical examination—including how to utilize the Jump Test, Trendelenburg sign, and the "C Sign" to differentiate intra-articular hip pathology from lumbar radiculopathy. We also dive deep into the mechanics of endoscopic IT band diamond-shaped lengthening, microtenotomy bone-drilling for chronic healing, and structural precautions for post-op physical therapy. Key Takeaways & Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome Dr. Ferdinand Chan (Lenox Hill/NISMAT fellowship alum). 02:15 – What is GTPS? Transitioning from "Bursitis" to Tendinopathy. 04:30 – Demographics: The role of estrogen and hormonal components in middle-aged women. 07:15 – The Clinical Exam: Master the Jump Test, Trendelenburg Sign, and FADER/FABER differentiation. 11:00 – Lumbar L3 Radiculopathy vs. GTPS: Clearing the diagnostic confusion. 13:45 – Imaging Algorithms: When to rely on clinical presentation over X-ray or MRI. 16:30 – Diagnostic Ultrasound: Is it a game-changer for point-of-care physical therapists? 18:50 – Cortisone vs. PRP: Financial realities, insurance hurdles, and tissue healing properties. 22:15 – Non-Operative Loading: Isometrics, University of Delaware soreness rules, and load management. 25:30 – Surgical Deep Dive: Endoscopic vs. Open Z-plasty, diamond-cut pliability, and bursal debridement. 29:00 – Microtenotomy & Biologics: Spurring healing with K-wires and bovine collagen patches. 33:15 – Post-Op Rehab Precautions: Lightweight recovery vs. 6-week non-weight-bearing protocols. Resources Mentioned: Read Dr. Chan’s study in Arthroscopy, Sports Medicine, and Rehabilitation. Connect with Dr. Chan at Montefiore Medical Center (Bronx) or Hudson Yards (Manhattan). Earn evidence-based CEUs for your license renewal. Visit our website to access our full course library. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and clinical tracking purposes only and does not constitute direct medical advice.

    34 min

  2. May 15

    Management of Lumbar Spondylolysis in Adolescent Athletes | Ep 20 w/ Dr. David Matusz

    Is that adolescent athlete's back pain a simple muscle strain, or is it a stress fracture waiting to worsen? In our 20th episode of the Sports Medicine Research Rundown, host Tim Tyler and co-host Rob Shapiro are joined by Dr. David Matusz to dive deep into the management of lumbar spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis in young athletes. We break down the critical differences between these conditions, the gold standards for imaging, and why the "single leg hyperextension test" might actually be setting your patients back. Plus, we critically review Jeffrey Troy’s recent article analyzing over 200 cases of symptomatic spondylolysis to determine the most effective, evidence-based treatment algorithms. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Welcome to Ep 20 & Introduction of Dr. David Matusz 01:50 - Defining Spondylolysis vs. Spondylolisthesis 06:20 - Red flags and the gold standard for imaging (MRI vs. CT vs. X-Ray) 11:15 - Why L5 is the most common site for pars injuries 16:30 - Review of the Jeffrey Troy article: Management of Lumbar Spondylolysis in Athletes 24:40 - Non-operative physical therapy protocols & criteria-based progression 34:10 - Reintroducing lumbar extension safely for return to sport Guest: Dr. David Matusz, Chief of Orthopedic Spine at Lenox Hill and surgeon at Spinal Associates of New York City.

    51 min

  3. Apr 27

    Do You Really Need Surgery for Atraumatic Rotator Cuff Tears with Dr. Michael Knudsen

    Is surgery always the answer for a full-thickness rotator cuff tear? In Ep. 19, Dr. Michael Knudsen breaks down the 10-year MOON study outcomes. Join host Tim Tyler and Donis Gil as they sit down with Dr. Knudsen, an orthopedic surgeon at Columbia University, to discuss the evidence-based management of atraumatic rotator cuff tears. We explore why patient expectations matter more than tear size, the crucial difference between traumatic and degenerative tears, and advanced clinical examination techniques. Chapter Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Michael Knudsen & the MOON Group study 06:00 - Traumatic vs. Atraumatic Rotator Cuff Tears 09:00 - Special Tests: Bear Hug, Lag Signs, and Belly Press 18:00 - Epidemiology: 26 million tears, but only 2% get surgery 20:00 - 10-Year MOON Study Outcomes: Expectations vs. Tear Size 46:00 - PT Pearls: Scapular kinematics and neuromuscular control Guest Bio: Dr. Michael Knudsen is an Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Columbia University and an attending at New York Presbyterian Hospital. He is a member of the American Shoulder and Elbow Society (ASES). Resources: MOON Shoulder Group PT Guidelines: https://moonshoulder.com (Visit our website for full transcripts and CEU information). Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational purposes and not medical advice. Consult a professional for personal health decisions.

    49 min

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
See All (21)

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