4D: Deep Dive into Degenerative Diseases - ANPT

In this episode, we’re sharing an edited audio recording of our DD SIG educational session from March 2026, during which we talked to 3 experts about fatigue in neurodegenerative diseases. Our panel includes Vanina Dal Bello-Haas who focuses on fatigue in ALS, Herb Karpatkin discussing fatigue in MS, and Maggie Abbott who covers fatigue in PD. The panelists share specifics on fatigue in each diagn...

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco is joined by CSM 2026 DD SIG Poster Award winner Paria Darbandsari. They discuss her study on the effects of telerehabilitation on Parkinson’s Disease including what telerehabilitation methods have been studied, and what potential benefits it may have. If you are interested in expanding access to care, especially for those with Parkinson’s, this episode may be for...

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco interviews Mission MSA CEO Joe Lindahl, and DD SIG liaison physical therapist Lindsay Beatty to share how the organization champions connection, education and research related to Multiple System Atrophy. Join us to learn more about this rare neurodegenerative disease and discover resources to help empower your patients.   For more information on Mission MSA, visit...

In this episode, created in collaboration with ANPT’s Assistive Technology and Wheeled Mobility (ATSWM) SIG, host Chris Buke is joined by AT/SWM SIG Chair Wendy Koesters and special guest Pam Glazener to discuss wheeled seating considerations for people living with ALS. Drawing from their experience in specialized wheelchair clinics, Wendy and Pam share practical insights on key wheelchair compone...

Get ready for a slam dunk! Join our podcast team members Madison Catalano, Ken Vinacco, and Sara Zoeller as they discuss the degenerative diseases programming at this year’s CSM in Anaheim, CA. This podcast highlights talks to help you plan your best "February Madness" experience. The DD SIG committee and members of the 4D podcast team will be visible at the Myelin Melter on Friday evening and at...

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco interviews Jessica Shurer, CurePSP’s Director of Clinical Affairs and Advocacy, to share how the organization is leading initiatives to expand support, outreach, and education for individuals with PSP, MSA and CBS/CBD. The conversation highlights current advocacy efforts, the importance of early recognition, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. If you...

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco talks with guest Brooke Smith to learn more about the resources and role of the Muscular Dystrophy Association.  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: https://app.box.com/s/lg8ac18l51pcf9...

In this episode, host Parm Padgett interviews Dr. Daniel Peterson about how to conceptualize and begin to intervene in the area of reactive balance. He discusses his work with people with Parkinson’s Disease and Multiple Sclerosis and other emerging areas of work in the field. If you are curious about making balance training functional and impactful for your patients, this is for you!  For questio...

In this episode, we bring together a panel of guests to discuss neurologic physical therapy residencies. Host Chris Burke talks to ANPT RF SIG chair Christina Platko, along with DD SIG volunteers Madison Catalano, a residency graduate, and our very own podcast intern, Ayesha Sawnani, a PT student interested in residency. From logistics of applying to tips on knowing what to look for in a residency...

In this episode, we tune into the audio from a special webinar from the Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation (MDF) about exercise for people with Myotonic Dystrophy (DM). Join Dr. Andy Rohrwasser- MDF Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Donovan Lott- a PT and PhD at University of Florida and specialist in muscular dystrophy, and cardiologist Dr. Matt Wheeler as they explore the latest research on movement and...

In this episode, host Parm Padgett interviews Dr. Sarah Milne about different rehabilitation strategies for physical therapists working with people with degenerative cerebellar ataxias. Dr. Milne shares results from her clinical trials, as well as tips and treatment approaches from her time in Friedreich Ataxia Clinic.  If you’re curious about components of effective rehabilitation for degenerativ...

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco talks with guests Andrew Rosen and Ashley Durando to discuss the National Ataxia Foundation mission and resources. The Degenerative Diseases Special Interest Group is part of the Academy ofNeurologic Physical Therapy – www.neuroPT.orgFor questions about this podcast, please contact neuroddsig@gmail.com. Guest InformationAndrew Rosen, CEO of the National Ataxia Fou...

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco talks with guest Gia Mannone to discuss the resources that the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA www.hdsa.org ) offers for people with HD. Gia discusses events, ways to find specialized medical care, and education for people with HD in all stages of the disease. If you treat people with HD, you’ll likely find something new to share after a listen!   Th...

This episode of 4D highlights results and implications from an article in the July 2025 Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy special issue on walking in people with neurological health conditions. Host Parm Padgett interviews two authors, Michael (Mike) VanNostrand and Patrick (Paddy) Monaghan, about their recent study examining the role of proprioception in backward walking in people with multi...

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...

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. Fi...

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. S...

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 adv...

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 soc...

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 D...

Join our podcast team members, Sara Zoeller and Parm Padgett, as they discuss the in-person and on-demand degenerative diseases programming (and some DD-adjacent talks) at this year’s CSM in Houston, TX. This podcast highlights talks and authors to help you plan your best CSM experience, complete with fun haikus and a CSM song at the very end of the bloopers - listen for that! The DD SIG committee...

In this episode, host Parm Padgett is joined by Miriam Rafferty and Monica Hendricksen from Shirley Ryan Ability Lab to explore the impact of current care models on individuals with neurologic conditions. Together, they delve into the opportunities and challenges of adopting innovative approaches to care and examine how these models can improve outcomes and transform practice. They take the discus...

In this episode, host Parm Padgett welcomes Taylor Takla to discuss her article, "Motor and Non-Motor Factors of Concern About Falling and Fear of Falling in Multiple Sclerosis” published in the October 2024 issue of JNPT. Taylor’s research delves into the complexities behind fear of falling and contributing factors among individuals with MS. Join the conversation to explore the clinical implicati...

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco talks to guest Kristina Vaughn to discuss the role of physical therapists working with individuals with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). NPH is a condition that leads to excess accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in ventricles of the brain. This  can lead to gait abnormalities, cognitive changes, and urinary incontinence. Ken and Kristina discuss how to differ...

In this episode, host Ken Vinacco talks with Bobby Hand about the role and intricacies of skilled maintenance therapy for individuals with degenerative diseases. Skilled maintenance therapy is the care that physical therapists can provide to individuals who have conditions with no curative treatment. Bobby and Ken delve into how PTs can provide therapy that impacts the individual’s quality of life...