Let’s Get Physical (Therapy) Podcast

Personal Trainer, Harsh Takkar, enlightens our audience on adaptive sports. Having gone through a traumatic spinal cord injury himself, Harsh brings his own personal experience to the table and how that affected his ability to play sport. Harsh tells us about many sports available in the adaptive sport realm and the benefits of participating in sport after a life altering injury. Join us to hear Harsh’s inspirational story and to glean a better understanding of adaptive sports.

Guest

Harsh Takkar, CPT

Bio: Harsh Thakkar is from Silver Spring MD and wasn’t always part of the disability community. Harsh is an avid advocate for the disability community since his own personal injury in 2006. Harsh being the young victim of a violent incident, sustained a spinal cord injury which partially left him paralyzed from the waist down. As a result, he understood from an earlier age the importance of self-advocacy and the necessity of a solid support system.

Harsh currently serves as the community outreach manager at MedStar National Rehabilitation hospital. In addition, he is the team manager for the NRH Punishers wheelchair basketball team. In his current professional role, he coordinates programs that encompass complete wellness for those impacted by neurological disabilities and disorders and gaining insight into the needs of the community to best fit their needs.

The adaptive sports and fitness programs are highly operated by volunteers, to learn more about the program and volunteer opportunities please visit: here

In this podcast, Dr. Harris helps us explore the world of anesthesiology and answers questions about what patients go through when they have surgery from pre-op to post-op. In this podcast episode, Dr. Harris helps us get a better understanding of different types of anesthesia, safety protocols for surgeries, and how anesthesia affects our bodies. Dr. Harris provides insight into how she and other doctors keep our patients safe during our most vulnerable times in the operating room.

Guest

Dr. Jennifer Harris

Dr. Harris was born in Halifax Nova Scotia, Canada and grew up in the Annapolis Valley. Having a love for science, Dr. Harris completed an undergraduate degree in Marine Biology and worked for the Canadian government for a few years before going to medical school. She then went to Saba University in the Caribbean and spent 18 months there doing book work. Dr. Harris then came to the United States for clinicals and have been here ever since. ­ ­ She has a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology, MS in hyperbaric medicine and MD, and is currently getting certified in Functional Medicine.

Physical Therapist, Robert, helps to define what DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) is, the importance of DEI, how to identify our own biases and how we can integrate DEI principles into better treating our patients and colleagues. Additionally, we’ll explore ways to create a safe environment for everyone and have conversations on how DEI shows up in the physical therapy clinic. Our goal is to provide you with strategies that will help us all become better allies in creating an inclusive world.

Guest:

Robert Metzger, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS

Robert Metzger’s undergraduate degrees include a bachelor of arts in philosophy and a bachelor of science in exercise physiology from Howard University. Robert has earned a doctoral degree in physical therapy from Emory University, and has also completed a sports medicine residency at the University of Rochester.

In 2015, Robert was chosen to be a Kevin Wilk Travel Fellow and studied sports medicine with national leaders in sports physical therapy at Stanford University, University of Wisconsin, and University of Cincinnati. He is recognized as a certified exercise physiologist from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

Robert has been researching primary ACL repairs and recently became a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist (OCS). Robert has SCS sports certified therapist in addition to OCS. He is also a faculty member for the MedStar Health Sports Physical Therapy Residency.

Guest host, MedStar Heath physical therapist, Jared Miller, and physical therapist and athletic trainer for the Washington Wizards, Michael Ashton, discuss how physical therapists work with athletes at the professional level, identifying limitations in players, optimizing all aspects of health, and navigating helping players improve without infringing on what is already working for them.  Jared and Michael discuss the challenges of working with highly competitive and physically demanding athletes and how they stay ahead of the curve when it comes to treatments and rehabilitation strategies. They also touch on the importance of communication between team members to ensure a successful environment for player development. Finally, Michael dives into tips for physical therapists on how to connect with patients to get the most out of their rehab program. Tune in to hear from our expert guest!

Guests:

Michael Ashton, DPT, ATC

Michael Ashton is the Director of Player Health and Head Athletic Trainer for the Washington Wizards. Michael earned his DPT from Hampton University (DPT). A dual-credentialed clinician in physical therapy and athletic training, Ashton's role involves provisioning medical care, integrative rehabilitation services, and injury reduction strategies. 

https://nbata.com/member-directory/washington-wizards 

Jared Miller, PT, DPT

Jared Miller received his bachelor’s degree in psychology-sociology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. He continued his studies to earn his doctoral degree in physical therapy from the University of Miami. Miller is bilingual, speaking English and Spanish. His rehabilitation specialties include basketball injuries, young athletes, and Crossfit athletes. Jared is also an ACL rehabilitation certified specialist. Jared sees patients at MedStar Health Physical Therapy at Lafayette Centre in Washington, D.C.

In this episode of The Let’s Get Physical (Therapy) Podcast, we talk to three inspiring cancer survivors about their incredible journeys. Hear from two women who have battled breast cancer and one man with prostate cancer as they share how physical therapy has helped them during treatment, recovery, and beyond. Learn what it's like to receive the diagnosis and navigate the process along with the importance of self-care in managing your health. Their stories will bring hope to all those affected by cancer or other illnesses, showing that there is light at the end of the tunnel. 

Physical therapist, Valeria Mulryne, joins us today to discuss her passion in treating patients with cancer. In this episode, we discuss the team of professionals involved in treating patients with cancer, how it is quite similar in treating patients with traditional orthopedic conditions, and our guest’s passion for helping those affected by this disease.  

Through this podcast, we hope to spread awareness about the incredible benefits that physical therapy can offer for people living with cancer. Join us as we explore the world of physical therapy for cancer patients.

Valerie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Gettysburg College in 2003 and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2006 from Arcadia University, while simultaneously earning her certification as an athletic trainer. Valerie has been a physical therapist with MedStar Health Physical Therapy at Olney for 11 years, specializing in oncology rehabilitation and lymphedema management. In April 2021, Valerie became a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. During her career at MedStar Health, Valerie has been a clinical instructor and has participated in multiple cancer related focus groups. In Fall 2022, Valerie was promoted to the Program Specialist for the MedStar Health Physical Therapy Cancer Program in Greater Washington.

Valerie currently serves as a wellness coach at our Olney physical therapy location and has training in both Reiki and craniosacral therapy. In May 2022, Valerie was awarded the MedStar Health Physical Therapy Outpatient Safety Award. 

For Mental Health Awareness Month, Bryan joins us to discuss how physical therapists can help their patients understand the importance of mental health and its impact on physical recovery. We'll talk about ways to identify potential mental health issues in our patients, strategies for addressing them in an appropriate manner, and tips for providing support during treatment. Our goal is to create a better understanding of the connection between physical and mental wellness so that our patients can achieve their best possible outcomes. Join us as we explore this important topic! 

Bryan attended the University of Maryland where he received his bachelor’s degree in journalism. Bryan also completed his doctoral degree in physical therapy from the University of Saint Augustine for Health Sciences. He is certified in manual therapy (MTC). His rehabilitation specialties include ACL return-to-play testing, blood flow restriction

Bryan is an assistant vice president for MedStar Health Physical Therapy.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, Dr. Aubrey Harrison is here to talk about mental health and how to identify risk factors of people who may be experiencing mental health concerns. He provides tips on reducing negative thoughts, seeking help in tough times, discussing imposter syndrome, and work-life balance. Tune in as Dr. Harrison shares his knowledge on this important topic with the goal of helping us all better understand our own mental wellbeing!

Aubrey Harrison, PhD, was born and raised in Chicago, IL. He is a recent graduate of The George Washington University. He is a Postdoctoral Fellow and Psychology Associate within the Medstar Georgetown University Hospital’s WISE Center. In his role, he supports students, families, teachers, and school leaders by providing direct service, consultation, and community support. He has worked with children, families, and adults in a variety of settings over the past seven years to include social service agencies and in-patient and out-patient hospital settings. 

https://www.medstarhealth.org/locations/medstar-georgetown-university-hospital/black-faculty-and-staff-association/aubrey-harrison

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This episode features physical therapist, Karen Postl, who discusses how to build our own toolbox of strategies and techniques that can help us become more resilient in life's challenges. She also shares practical ways to take care of ourselves, so we have the energy and resources available to help others when they need it most. Karen talks about the importance of knowing ourselves better and how that translates to becoming a better clinician and teammate for the success of your clinic and workplace. 

Join us this month for inspiring conversations with experts who will share their stories, insights, tips, and advice about building resilience and self-care practices that can make a difference in your life.

Karen Postl received her master’s degree in physical therapy at Northeastern University and her doctorate in physical therapy at Boston University. Karen is the regional clinic director for our Brandywine and Clinton locations. Her rehabilitation specialties include orthopedic injuries and conditions, Fibromylagia, chronic pain, neurorehabilitation, and stroke recovery.

This podcast episode features an interview with Joey Mylott, the Baltimore Orioles’ biomechanist, who specializes in helping pitchers improve their throwing mechanics and stay on the mound by analyzing their mechanics and movement patterns.  

During the conversation, we explored how to use a throwing screen to evaluate pitching efficiency, as well as how to collaborate with other providers to ensure safe training practices for athletes.  

We also discuss strategies for addressing any injuries or issues that may arise during the process of improving performance. Tune in now to learn more about efficient and effective ways to help pitchers reach their full potential! 

Joey Mylott played division 3 baseball at Rochester Institute of Technology where he received his bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering. Joey then went on to complete his master’s degree in biomedical engineering at the Wake Forest School of Medicine. Joey worked and conducted research in the Wake Forest Pitching Lab during his graduate studies. Joey also served as a graduate assistant and a member of the baseball analytics team with the Demon Deacon baseball team. Joey works for the Baltimore Orioles in their Player Development department as their Biomechanist where he works with both pitchers and hitters. Joey also works for the MedStar Health Pitching Lab, assisting with our comprehensive pitching assessments.

Location/bio link: MedStarHealth.org/PitchingLab.

This podcast focuses on shoulder instability, be it traumatic and atraumatic, and how to identify athletes with these shoulder pathologies. Dr. Levine discusses various surgery options to treat an unstable shoulder, as well as the importance of physical therapy when it comes to strengthening the dynamic stabilizers when the primary ones are jeopardized. 

Location/bio link: https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctors/richard-gary-levine-md

This podcast is for anyone interested in sports medicine, shoulder injuries, or baseball. Dr. Looze covers a wide range of topics from management options to reducing injuries in youth athletes.  

Dr. Looze provides insight into his experience working with professional athletes and shares tips on how to keep players healthy and on the field. He also discusses imaging techniques used to diagnose shoulder injuries and various treatment options available for rotator cuff pathologies and other shoulder issues.  

Listeners will gain an understanding of how important it is to take preventative measures when playing any sport, as well as learn about different ways that orthopedic surgeons can help keep players active and injury free throughout their careers. 

Location/bio link: https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctors/christopher-alan-looze-md

On today’s episode, Physical Therapist, Tom discusses the mechanics of baseball hitting, common lower body injuries in baseball, and ways to help keep baseball athletes on the field.  

We will explore topics such as proper swing technique, strength training protocols for injury risk reduction, and recovery strategies that can be used by both coaches and players.  

Join us as we dive into these important issues related to baseball performance so everyone can have a healthier season. 

Tom has his clinical doctorate in biomechanics and physical therapy. He is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist. Tom enjoys treating overhead athletes, runners, golfers, sports medicine, and performance enhancement restoration. Tom is a regional clinic director for MedStar Health Physical Therapy and sees patients at our NRH Rehabilitation at Germantown location.

https://www.medstarhealth.org/locations/physical-therapy-germantown

Dr. Douoguih eloquently shares his knowledge of Tommy John surgery and UCL injuries having trained under the surgeon who saved Tommy John’s pitching career.  

Dr. Douoguih discusses how these injuries have been treated in the past, the recovery process associated with this surgery, expected outcomes from treatment, as well as some of the issues we are faced with today that could be leading to more serious injuries.  

He also provides insight into what can be done to reduce the risk of these types of injuries in athletes. 

https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctors/wiemi-abell-douoguih-md

Physical therapist, Steve Luca, provides valuable insight into the world of baseball training and injury risk reduction. Steve takes a holistic approach to evaluate athletes, focusing on core stability and spine mobility for optimal performance. He explains his baseball screen in detail, which helps identify risk factors among players, primarily pitchers. The information Steve provides here is essential for coaches, athletic trainers, and athletes who are looking to stay healthy while playing baseball or any overhead sport. 

Steve treats patients at our Bel Air - Athletic Club location. He also performs pitching evaluations at the MedStar Health Orioles Pitching Lab.

This podcast is for student physical therapists and new physical therapy graduates who are looking to find their first job as a physical therapist. New grad herself, Haana, provides valuable insight into the decision-making process and what factors should be taken into consideration when looking for your first position. Haana discusses topics such as teamwork, mentorship, and knowing what is important to you to make an informed decision. Listeners can expect an upbeat and informative conversation that will leave them feeling empowered to take the next step in their career journey!

Location/bio link: https://www.medstarhealth.org/locations/physical-therapy-dundalk

Physical therapist, McKenzie Bane, will cover all things neurological with regards to ACL surgery and the changes that occur in the brain after surgery. A thorough understanding of the changes that occur in the brain after an ACL surgery is essential for successful rehabilitation and treatment. Neuroplasticity, or the ability of the brain to adapt to changing circumstances, plays a large role in recovery following an injury like an ACL tear. Specifically, neuroplasticity involves reorganizing existing neural pathways and creating new ones as needed; this helps individuals regain lost motor skills and relearn movement patterns post-surgery. He’ll also give some tips for fellow PTs and PT students to optimize how we improve the brain health of an athlete in order to reduce the risk of injury when returning from an ACL surgery.

https://www.medstarhealth.org/locations/physical-therapy-timonium

Candidates for ACL reconstruction are typically people who have experienced a tear or rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). This can occur due to trauma or sports injuries. In some cases, it is possible to repair the torn ACL without surgery, but in most cases, surgery is necessary to restore full function and stability. In this episode, orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Levine, shares with us the “BEAR” technique (Bridge Enhanced ACL Restoration) used for repairing ACL tears. We talk about who is a candidate for this procedure, how the surgery is performed, and how it affects a patient’s post-op recovery.

Dr. Erica Force is a licensed psychologist specializing in sport psychology. Dr. Force specializes in working with adolescent, collegiate, professional, and elite athletes. She currently serves as the Head of Athletic Counseling Services at Georgetown University and in her private practice she provides counseling services to individual athletes and teams in the community. 

https://forcepsychology.com/

Nick is a licensed dietitian for MedStar Health. He went to school at Seton Hill University and graduated their Coordinated Program in Nutrition and Dietetics. His career has been a mix of clinical, sports, cooking, and community nutrition experience. Nick is passionate about alleviating poor diet habits created by the misinformation used to market foods, diets, and nutrition certificates.

Nick practices at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center. To schedule an appointment, call the bariatrics department at 443-777-1158 and request a “nutrition therapy visit.” https://www.medstarhealth.org/services/dietary-treatments 

Bryan Woolson is a strength and conditioning coach with lots of experience in the field. He has specialized knowledge on ACL rehab for athletes and how to optimize treatment to help them get back to sport. Today we discuss the functional tests he has his athletes perform to test their readiness for return–to-play. Bryan also shares his background working with athletes after ACL injury, the various readiness protocols he uses, as well as his strategies for helping athletes reach their full potential after returning from an ACL tear. We will also explore best practices when it comes to pre-injury preparation and injury risk reduction that coaches and PTs can employ with their teams to reduce an athlete’s risk of injury. 

Guest: Bryan is the current strength and conditioning coach for Johns Hopkins women’s lacrosse team and sees athletes at our Forest Hill location in Harford County.

https://www.medstarhealth.org/services/sports-performance-enhancement 

Bonus episode! March is National Athletic Training Month, and we are grateful for all the hard work athletic trainers do. In this podcast, we interview Jeremy Dockter, an athletic trainer, to learn more about National Athletic Training Month and how athletic trainers serve in many different settings. From working with sports teams, high schools, and physician extenders to helping in physical therapy clinics and even within the community at varying capacities - there is no shortage of ways that athletic trainers make a positive impact on our lives. Tune into this episode to hear from Jeremy himself as he shares his story and celebrates National Athletic Training Month! 

Guest: Jeremy is the head athletic trainer for the Old Glory rugby team in Washington, DC. He is also a physician extender for orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Wiemi Douoguih. To learn more about our athletic training program, visit Athletic Training Services at MedStar Health | MedStar Health or contact medstaratc@medstar.net. 

Amber Radtke is a certified athletic trainer who shares her insights on why ACL tears are so devastating for athletes. She tells us about her own personal experience undergoing ACL surgery and how this injury can be emotionally difficult to overcome. Additionally, Amber discusses how she works with athlete's post-op to help them get back to their sport safely and effectively. She emphasizes the importance of understanding each individual athlete's needs and pushing them appropriately while also knowing when enough is enough. Finally, Amber stresses the importance of teamwork between coaches, athletic trainers, physical therapists, and other medical professionals to ensure the best outcome for an athlete recovering from an ACL tear. 

Guest: Amber is an athletic trainer for the Maryland Black Bears and Team Maryland, junior hockey teams out of Piney Orchard Ice Arena. To learn more about our athletic training program, visit Athletic Training Services at MedStar Health | MedStar Health or contact medstaratc@medstar.net. 

Meet Sam King. She is an experienced physical therapist and is ready to discuss everything “copers” and “non-copers" with regards to ACL tears and whether to undergo surgery. A “coper” is an individual who can return to their sport or activity after sustaining an ACL injury without undergoing surgery. This type of individual has a good balance between strength, mobility, and stability in the knee joint which allows them to manage the instability associated with this type of injury without surgical intervention. A “non-coper” is just the opposite. This is someone who cannot return to their sport or activity after sustaining an ACL injury without undergoing surgery. How do you discern between a coper and a non-coper? Tune in! 

Sam sees patients at MedStar Health Physical Therapy at South Baltimore. To learn more about Sam and our physical therapy services, click here

Today we’re featuring Dr. Argintar, one of the leading physicians in the field of sports medicine. Dr. Argintar offers us insight into his clinical practice regarding this common knee injury. On this episode, Dr. Argintar discusses with me the latest evidence-based research on ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injuries in sports medicine. We’ll also talk about surgical techniques for ACL reconstruction and repair, rehabilitation protocols after surgery, return to sport progression following injury or surgery, and the latest in the management of athletes with an ACL injury.

Dr. Argintar sees patients at MedStar Washington Hospital Center and MedStar Health at Navy Yard. To learn more about his practice or to schedule, click here

This episode features physical therapist, Kala Flagg, who treats professional basketball players as well as everyday athletes in the clinic. Kala and I discuss tips and tricks to help PTs optimize patient care following an ACL surgery. We’ll also cover topics such as injury risk reduction, rehab strategies, protocols, and more—all tailored specifically to athletes and patients after ACL surgery. Kala brings valuable insight into treating athletes at all levels of competition.

Kala sees patients at MedStar Health Physical Therapy at Lafayette Centre. To learn more about Kala and our physical therapy services, click here