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B&F SIG: Planning the Perfect CSM 2025 (if you love balance training & fall prevention)

Whether you plan to attend in-person or watch on-demand, our host Marissa Lyon highlights an itinerary of education sessions, platform presentations, and poster sessions that will elevate your knowledge of balance training and fall prevention.

Additionally, this month we throw in a few tips on having a successful and lower-stress CSM and eating well in Houston. We finish off with a lightning round of punny, funny, and silly course titles.

CSM Programming

Other things going on at CSM everyday: Tranquility room 7-7:30, APTA (free) Head Shot Lounge 9:30-4:00, APTA Fit for Practice Fitness Gym 10:15-4:00, and Exhibit Hall 9:30-4:00

Vertigogo on the Vestibular SIG Instagram

Why do Texans love HEB?

Restaurant recommendations: Huyhn Restaurant, Nancy’s Hustle, St. Arnold’s, Phoenicia Foods, Ninfa’s on Navigation, Fifth Vessel.

Please send comments or questions on this podcast to balancefallssig@gmail.com

The Balance & Falls Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org.

DDSIG: Bonus Episode- CSM 2025 Platform Award: Amplifying walking activity in Parkinson’s Disease through autonomous music-based rhythmic auditory stimulation – with Franchino Porciuncula 

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco interviews Franchino Porciuncula, the winner of the DDSIG platform award at CSM 2025 in Houston, TX. They discuss his research related to utilizing closed-loop, music-based rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) with people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). They review the impact on real-world walking and gait quality, as well as participant feedback. He discusses ways to integrate use of RAS in clinic, highlighting both the complex nature of PD and challenges and limitations observed in this randomized clinical trial.  

The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of 
Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org

Show notes: https://app.box.com/s/yqos32rt9wf5ofdshnsiwedxh8ftny7i

DD SIG Navigating the Path Episode 3: The ALS Association 

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco sits down with guests Lauren LaMar and Kyle Vasher to discuss the range of resources that the ALS Association offers for people with ALS. Lauren shares her role in the multidisciplinary clinic as well as the range of online, local and one-on-one support services offered for patients and caregivers. Kyle adds his input as a DD SIG liaison and treating therapist. Filled with great advice, perspective and practical resources to share with patients, this is a helpful listen for PTs treating patients with ALS.  

The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of 
Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 

For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com. 
 

Resources from the ALS Association 

Medicare information: https://www.als.org/navigating-als/financial-information/medicare-information 

Caregiver education and support groups: https://www.als.org/navigating-als/support-for-caregivers  

Care Matters newsletter: https://www.als.org/care-matters-sign-up  

Multidisciplinary clinic locator: https://www.als.org/support/certified-centers-clinics 

Education for healthcare professionals: https://www.als.org/navigating-als/education-healthcare-professionals 

     – Rehabilitative Care for ALS: Guidance for PTs and OTs: https://app.schoox.com/login.php?courseId=8207995  

Printed materials: https://www.als.org/order-portal  

Transfer technique videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6QI9CQO63I&list=PL2RF9Bwbv6Com3nZM-jFh_EGl3Gmn6S43 

Virtual home modification and safety assessment program: https://www.als.org/support/programs/virtual-home-modification-and-safety-assessment-program  

ALS Insurance Navigator https://www.als.org/support/als-insurance-navigator 

ALS Advocacy Team https://www.als.org/advocacy/action-center  

Show notes: https://app.box.com/s/q45h3p0fsgiuzluwxtzajnupp5hyofr2

Stroke SIG: Neurotechnology and Stroke Rehab – A Student-Focused Episode – Episode 28

The Student Corner of the Stroke SIG (Ben Lindaman, Pam Bosch, and Dana Kohl) took a question from a student regarding the role of neurotechnology in stroke rehabilitation. This podcast discusses the evidence behind some of the neurotechnology you may (or may not have!) heard of to support the recovery of those with neurologic impairments.

Article Referenced: Putrino D, Krakauer JW. Neurotechnology’s prospects for bringing about meaningful reductions in neurological impairment. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2023;37(6):356-366. doi:10.1177/15459683221137341

Note: This podcast used Artificial Intelligence (AI) for its creation! Source: Notebook LM

If you are a student and have a question regarding stroke rehabilitation, we are here to help! Submit questions here: https://www.neuropt.org/special-interest-groups/stroke/resources-for-students

The information in this podcast is meant for the benefits of physical therapists. It is not meant for personal medical diagnosis and/or treatment. Individuals should always consult an appropriate medical practitioner with questions.

This is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, rehabilitation, or treatment. Patients and other members of the general public should always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional regarding personal health and medical conditions. The Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy and its collaborators disclaim any liability to any party for any losses or damage by errors or omissions in this publication. The views or opinions expressed are those of the individual creators and do not necessarily represent the position of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy.

Please send comments or questions on this podcast to the Stroke SIG at strokesig@gmail.com.

The Stroke Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.com.

Spinal Cord Injury SIG: DiSCIS Interview with Nicole Sharf on Sexuality and SCI – Episode 20

Join us as we discuss with Nicole Sharf about her groups paper, “Psychosexual Well-Being Following Spinal Cord Injury: Perspectives of Adults With Spinal Cord Injury and Rehabilitation Clinicians” published in Rehabilitation Psychology in 2024.

Article abstract: https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2025-44297-001

SCI Chats Episode 11: Interview with Katie Blackburn about program development and quality

Join us as we talk with Katie Blackburn, PT, DPT, NCS, MSHQS about SCI program development and quality initiatives to improve care.

Please send comments or questions on this podcast to anptscisig@gmail.com

The Spinal Cord Injury Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org.

ANPT Inspirational Conversation with Dr. Carrie Hoppes

In this interview conducted in early 2025, Dr. Carrie Hoppes shares her career trajectory and research experiences related to vestibular and military physical therapy.

The Historical Archives Committee is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuropt.org.

DD SIG Episode 55: Freezing of Gait with Alice Nieuwboer

In this insightful episode, host Parm Padgett sits down with Dr. Alice Nieuwboer, a leading expert in Parkinson’s rehabilitation, to unpack the complex and frustrating phenomenon of freezing of gait (FOG). From the role of dopamine loss and neural “overload” to the influence of stress, motor challenges, and cognitive demands, Dr. Nieuwboer explains what we know about the factors influencing FOG. She also shares the latest research on freezing subtypes, how medication impacts symptoms, and why defining FOG remains a moving target. Full of clinical pearls and research updates, this conversation offers fresh hope and practical strategies for therapists and clinicians navigating the challenges treating people with FOG.  

Show notes available: https://app.box.com/s/gcyeiq1xk326ltqxj6zgemlfqtkgoooa  

The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 

For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.

DD SIG: Navigating the Path Episode 2: The Parkinson’s Foundation

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco sits down with special guest Donna Sperlakis to explore the wide range of resources and support services offered by the Parkinson’s Foundation. Together, they dive into the educational tools, community programs, and research initiatives designed to empower individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their families. Donna shares personal insights and expert advice on how to access these resources and make the most of the resources offered. This conversation provides valuable information and encouragement for everyone touched by Parkinson’s. 

The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org
For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com.

Show notes available here: https://app.box.com/s/a97fdclbbznlsqti6uhvh01ctwlnykly

DD SIG Navigating the Path Episode 1: National MS Society  

Tune in to the first episode of our new series, Navigating the Path: Resources for Patients with Neurodegenerative Diseases, which highlights organizations that provide resources and information to people with neurodegenerative diseases. In this episode, Lauren Corley, a National MS Society representative, joins our host Christina Burke to explore the many resources and programs offered by the society. From financial assistance for assistive devices to continuing education opportunities for clinicians, learn how the National MS Society is making a meaningful impact in the MS community. They are both joined by Gregory Brusola, a board member of the DD SIG and coordinator of the DD SIG liaison program, who discusses the role of DD SIG liaisons and connections for PTs with the National MS Society. 

The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org 

For questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com. 

Show notes available

Visit the National MS Society website for more information on their programs
 

DDSIG: Bonus Episode-  CSM Poster Award 2025: Analysis of Backward Gait Assessment Performance in Typical Older Adults and Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease – with Lisa Inglis 

In this episode, Parm interviews Lisa Inglis, the winner of the DDSIG poster award at CSM 2025 in Houston. Lisa, a PT and professor at Daemen college, explains her research related to measuring backward walking and comparing backward walking characteristics of people with and without Parkinson’s Disease (PD). She goes on to discuss potential uses of backward gait assessment in PT practice.  

The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy of  Neurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.org

Show notes available here