Academy for Neurologic Physical Therapy Podcast

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

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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.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:07 — 75.7MB)

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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

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 27:24 — 37.6MB)

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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
 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 20:45 — 28.5MB)

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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

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 20:19 — 27.9MB)

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