PT Snacks Podcast: Physical Therapy with Dr. Kasey Hankins

Kasey Hankins, PT, DPT, OCS

You only have X amount of time in a given day. If you are a Physical Therapist or a Student Physical Therapist, you may also find that the time and energy you have left is precious, but the list of concepts you want to review or learn is endless. Build the habit of listening to small, bite-sized pieces of information to help you study, and save you time to live the rest of your life. Kasey Hankins, PT, DPT, OCS will be covering anatomy, arthokinematics, therapeutic exercise, patient education, and so much more. Tune in to learn on a time budget so you can continue to move your practice forward!

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181 episodes
Updated July 14

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July 14 · 12 min
181. Paratenonitis vs Tenosynovitis: How to Tell the Difference and Treat Each
Send us Fan Mail Today, we are answering a listener question about the difference between paratenonitis and tenosynovitis. We'll cover the roles of each of these in the body, how they get agggravated, and what we do to treat them. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 00:42 Fan Mail Questions 02:03 Episode Roadmap 02:36 Paratenon Basics 03:32 Synovial Sheath Function 04:46 Evaluation Differences 05:19 Paratenon Causes 06:47 Paratenon Treatment 07:55 Tenosynovitis Causes 08:19 Tenosynovitis Treatment 09:04 Key Takeaways 10:00 Resources and Wrap Up Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
June 30 · 13 min
180. Why Some Tendons Get Injured More Than Others: Load Mismatch, Tissue Quality, and Tendon Type
Send us Fan Mail 🎉 MedBridge Days Sale is Here! MedBridge's Bridge Days sale runs June 15–30! Use code PTSNACKS15 for: $126 off an Individual Subscription → Get your discount 15% off Group Subscriptions → Group pricing MedBridge is also celebrating their 15-year anniversary, with tons of CEU courses for PTs, OTs, and SLPs — plus built-in exam prep for OCS, SCS, and other specialty certifications. Don't wait — this offer is only live for two weeks! In this episode, Kasey breaks down the high-level reasons why certain tendons are more predisposed to injury than others. Rather than memorizing isolated facts, this episode is designed to help you build a framework for understanding tendon behavior under load. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 01:27 Why Tendons Get Injured 02:15 Load Mismatch Basics 03:27 Mechanical Risk Factors 04:45 Tissue Quality and Healing 05:26 Junctions and Tendon Size 07:21 Composition and Demographics 08:52 Intrasynovial vs Extrasynovial 10:07 Framework and Wrap Up 11:01 Resources and Farewell Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
June 16 · 23 min
179. Rotator Cuff Tears 101: Partial vs. Full Thickness & What It Means for Your Patients
Send us Fan Mail Not all rotator cuff tears are the same, and understanding why can completely change how you set expectations and build a plan with your patients. In this episode, we break down tendon anatomy and physiology, the different ways rotator cuff tears develop (degenerative vs. traumatic), the difference between partial- and full-thickness tears, and the factors that influence healing and prognosis for both conservative and surgical patients. In this episode you'll learn: What a tendon actually is and why its structure (and blood supply) matters for healing The difference between degenerative and traumatic rotator cuff tears Risk factors that make someone more likely to develop a tear Articular-side vs. bursal-side partial thickness tears — and why bursal tears tend to hurt more What "massive" and "irreparable" tears mean, and how outcomes differ Predictors of good outcomes with conservative care (hint: baseline ROM and strength matter) A quick look at steroid injections vs. PRP for rotator cuff tears Test yourself: What is a tendon's main job, and what structures help it do that job? What are the main categories of rotator cuff tears? What are the two types of partial thickness tears, and how do they differ? What factors affect healing after a rotator cuff tear — for both conservative and surgical patients? 🎉 MedBridge Days Sale is Here! MedBridge's Bridge Days sale runs June 15–30! Use code PTSNACKS15 for: $126 off an Individual Subscription → Get your discount 15% off Group Subscriptions → Group pricing MedBridge is also celebrating their 15-year anniversary, with tons of CEU courses for PTs, OTs, and SLPs — plus built-in exam prep for OCS, SCS, and other specialty certifications. Don't wait — this offer is only live for two weeks! Resources: 📋 Free rotator cuff study guide 📱 Follow along on TikTok @ptsnackspodcast for visual study tools ✉️ Questions or topic requests? Email ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com or join the email list for episode highlights If this episode helped you, please take a moment to leave a review — it helps the show grow more than you know! 🙏 Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
May 26 · 9 min
178. Dry Needling for Pain Relief: What We Think Is Happening (4 Key Mechanisms)
Send us Fan Mail Welcome to this brief episode on dry needling and what current research suggests may explain its pain-relieving effects. The episode clarifies why it’s called “dry” needling (no medication injected) and emphasizes the importance of being able to explain why it may help patients. Dry needling is presented as working locally and systemically through four main mechanisms: local muscle and tissue effects, biomechanical and inflammatory biomarker changes, peripheral and spinal pain modulation, and supraspinal/autonomic pathways. We also discuss who this is appropriate for, and how to combine it with other techniques to help our patients get to their goals successfully. 00:00 Welcome to PTs Snacks 00:48 Why Dry Needling Matters 01:15 What It Is and Isn't 02:39 Four Mechanisms Overview 03:24 Local Tissue Effects 04:19 Inflammation Biomarkers 05:14 Spinal Pain Modulation 06:35 Autonomic Brain Pathways 07:16 Who Should Avoid It 07:58 Patient Education and Training 08:52 Wrap Up and Next Steps Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
May 12 · 13 min
177. Baxter’s Nerve: The Overlooked Cause of Chronic Medial Heel Pain
Send us Fan Mail In this PT Snacks episode, host Kasey introduces Baxter’s nerve (the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve, also called the inferior/anterior calcaneal nerve) as an under-recognized source of medial plantar heel pain that can mimic plantar fasciitis and may account for up to 20% of chronic heel pain. We review the nerve’s motor and sensory roles, common entrapment zones near the distal tarsal tunnel and medial calcaneal tuberosity, and typical presentation including burning neuropathic pain, possible paresthesia, focal tenderness, and potential abductor digiti minimi weakness or atrophy. This episode outlines key differentials, relevant imaging and testing findings (ultrasound, MRI, EMG/NCS), and a treatment progressions. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 00:14 Baxters Nerve Overview 02:14 Why It Matters 03:03 Anatomy and Entrapment 04:45 Symptoms and Differentials 06:11 Imaging and Testing 07:22 Clinical Exam Clues 09:04 Treatment Options 11:12 Key Takeaways 12:58 Wrap Up and Contact Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
April 28 · 12 min
176. PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament): Function, Injury Mechanisms, Assessment, and Rehab Priorities
Send us Fan Mail In this PT Snacks episode, Kasey breaks down the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) for PTs and students, covering what it is, how it’s injured, and how we assess and manage it clinically. We review the PCL’s role, common mechanisms of injuries, plus what combined injuries may indicate. We also hit key exam findings and tests, imaging options, grading, and broad rehab principles focused on protecting against posterior shear, progressing quad strength, and using protocols thoughtfully while testing readiness stage to stage. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 00:31 Support the Podcast 01:13 What the PCL Does 01:35 Anatomy and Bundles 02:49 Injury Mechanisms 04:08 Symptoms and History 05:09 Clinical Tests and Imaging 06:04 Grading and Treatment Paths 07:18 Rehab Principles and Progression 09:14 Protocol Reasoning and Homework 11:34 Wrap Up and Contact Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
April 14 · 11 min
175. How Exercise Relieves Pain: 4 Pathways Every PT Should Know
Send us Fan Mail This episode explains how exercise can act as pain relief, addressing common patient concerns about exercise hurting and offering an alternative or complement to medications and passive treatments. We outline four key pain-modulating mechanisms: central modulation at the brain and spinal cord, immune and inflammatory changes, peripheral tissue and nerve effects, and psychological/behavioral pathways. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 00:57 Does Exercise Hurt? 03:08 Four Pain Relief Pathways 03:44 Brain and Spinal Cord 05:28 Immune Inflammation Shift 06:10 Peripheral Tissue Effects 06:50 Psychology and Behavior 07:24 Choosing the Right Dose 09:44 Educate Without Jargon 10:48 Wrap Up and Connect Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
March 31 · 17 min
174. Hip Dysplasia
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we defines hip dysplasia, review risk factors (female sex, breech birth, family history, etc), infant screening, adult presentation and functional testing, and outlines PT goals (pain-free motion, strengthening, activity modification) versus surgical consideration such as periacetabular osteotomy and its recovery expectations. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 00:24 Podcast Schedule Update 01:50 Support the Show 02:12 Hip Dysplasia Explained 04:22 Who’s at Risk 06:25 Infant Screening Basics 08:15 Imaging and Measurements 09:47 Adult Signs and Testing 11:33 Physical Therapy Approach 13:31 When Surgery Is Needed 15:57 Wrap Up and Contact Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
March 24 · 8 min
173. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) Basics for PTs: hEDS, Pain, and Smarter Exercise Dosing
Send us Fan Mail Kasey welcomes listeners to the PT Snacks podcast for physical therapists and students and introduces a brief episode on Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). Kasey highlights common patient issues such as joint pain, dislocations, tendinitis, and muscle cramps, and discusses how physical therapy can improve quality of life through resistance training, proprioception, balance, aerobic and functional conditioning, pain neuroscience, and graded exposure to reduce kinesiophobia. 00:00 Welcome and Disclaimer 00:18 Episode Focus on EDS 01:21 EDS Types Overview 02:20 Hypermobility EDS Basics 02:33 Why Collagen Matters 03:16 PT Goals Pain and Fear 04:02 Training Approaches for hEDS 04:31 Load Management and Recovery 05:48 Lifestyle Factors Sleep Stress 06:52 Wrap Up and Contact Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
March 17 · 10 min
172. Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture: Recognition, Assessment, and Treatment for PTs
Send us Fan Mail Host Kasey introduces PT Snacks, a bite-size podcast for physical therapists and students, and covers distal biceps tendon ruptures. The episode reviews relevant anatomy, typical injury mechanism, classic symptoms, and common risk factors and patient profile. Kasey outlines key differentials, exam findings and tests, imaging options, and treatment pathways, emphasizing that timely recognition improves surgical outcomes. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 00:18 Episode Overview 01:14 What the Rupture Is 01:44 Mechanism and Symptoms 02:29 Anatomy Refresher 03:37 Risk Factors and Who Gets It 05:13 Patient Story and Red Flags 06:13 Differential Diagnosis 07:02 Exam Tests and Imaging 08:05 Treatment Options 08:48 Surgery and Rehab Timeline 09:35 Key Takeaways and Outro Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
March 10 · 14 min
171. Demystifying Urinary Incontinence for Ortho PTs: Differentiating Between 5 Types
Send us Fan Mail In this PT Snacks episode, host Kasey introduces urinary incontinence for physical therapists and students, emphasizing its prevalence, quality-of-life impact, and the importance of reducing taboo. The episode defines urinary incontinence as involuntary urine leakage, reviews key anatomy and neural control, and explains five types: stress, urge, mixed, overflow, and functional incontinence. Kasey highlights distinguishing features, common associations, and prevalence examples. The discussion outlines basic next steps and general management concepts like stress tolerance training and bladder training. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 00:13 Why Incontinence Matters 01:40 Defining Urinary Incontinence 02:19 Key Anatomy Overview 04:00 Five Types Explained 04:14 Stress Incontinence Signs 05:34 Urge Incontinence Basics 06:49 Mixed Overflow Functional 08:30 What To Do Next 09:18 Assessment Bladder Diary 10:32 History And Risk Factors 11:20 Treatment Overview 11:59 Stress Vs Urgency Strategies 13:16 Key Takeaways And Support Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
March 3 · 11 min
170. Shoulder Pain Isn’t Always Musculoskeletal: Red Flags, Referral Clues, and Quick Screening Questions
Send us Fan Mail In this PT Snacks episode, we walk through how to tell when “shoulder pain” might not actually be coming from the shoulder—and why that matters for safe, intentional screening in the clinic. We compare classic musculoskeletal patterns (pain tied to motion/loading and reproducible on exam) versus non-mechanical presentations like constant, poorly localized, deep/pressure-like pain that doesn’t change with movement and may come with systemic or autonomic symptoms. Also covered are common non-musculoskeletal sources that can refer to the shoulder—pulmonary/thoracic, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal/hepatic, and malignancy/systemic disease—plus practical questions and quick vitals-based triage you can blend into a normal eval. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 00:15 Why Non MSK Matters 01:52 MSK vs Non MSK Clues 03:56 Pulmonary Referral Patterns 04:54 Cardiac Red Flags 05:51 GI and Hepatic Sources 06:34 Cancer and Systemic Causes 07:27 Triage Questions and Screen 09:12 When to Refer Urgently 10:32 Wrap Up and Resources Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
February 24 · 14 min
169. FAI (Femoroacetabular Impingement)
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we break down femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) for PTs and students—what it is, how it shows up clinically, and how it’s typically diagnosed. We walk through cam, pincer, and mixed morphologies, quick assessment ideas (including FADIR/FABER and when imaging matters), and what PT treatment commonly focuses on. We also touch on when injections or surgery may come into play and key considerations for helping patients succeed with rehab. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks 01:10 FAI Defined and Diagnosed 02:27 Cam Pincer and Mixed Types 05:03 Clinical Assessment Tests 07:26 Imaging and Key Angles 08:31 PT Treatment Priorities 11:14 Injections and Surgery Options 12:20 Key Takeaways and Wrap Up 13:16 Resources Newsletter and Promo 14:10 Final Sign Off Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
February 17 · 16 min
168. Understanding Vertebral Basilar Insufficiency (VBI): Symptoms, Screening, and Management
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the PT Snacks Podcast, host Kasey delves into vertebra basilar insufficiency (VBI), a condition affecting the posterior cerebral circulation. Aimed at physical therapists and PT students, the episode explains the anatomy behind VBI, its symptoms, risk factors, and how to screen for it effectively. Kasey highlights the importance of understanding VBI’s implications, potential triggers, and the role of physical therapists in identifying and managing this condition. The episode also touches on appropriate referral procedures and the limitations of traditional VBI tests. Listen in to enhance your knowledge and clinical skills regarding this critical topic. 00:00 Introduction to PT Snacks Podcast 00:15 Understanding Vertebra Basilar Insufficiency 01:33 Anatomy Review: Blood Supply to the Brain 05:17 Risk Factors for Vertebra Basilar Insufficiency 06:16 Identifying VBI in the Clinic 09:16 Diagnostic Tests and Safe Practices 11:33 Referral Guidelines and Patient Communication 13:52 Conclusion and Additional Resources Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
February 10 · 16 min
167. Medial Epicondylalgia (Golfer's Elbow): Assessment and Treatment
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the PTs Snacks Podcast, host Kasey dives into medial epicondylalgia, commonly known as golfer's elbow. This condition involves chronic tendinosis of the wrist flexors and pronators that attach to the medial epicondyle of the humerus. Kasey explains how to assess and treat this condition, noting the importance of proper diagnosis and patient education. Key topics include risk factors, symptoms, clinical examination techniques, imaging options, and treatment strategies such as pain management, tendon loading, and patient education. This episode is a must-listen for physical therapists and students looking to enhance their understanding of medial elbow pain. 00:00 Introduction to PTs Snacks Podcast 00:13 Understanding Medial Epicondylalgia 02:39 Causes and Risk Factors 06:54 Symptoms and Diagnosis 08:22 Treatment Approaches 14:29 Conclusion and Additional Resources Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
February 3 · 17 min
166. Clinical Instructor Tips to Set Your Student Up For Success
Send us Fan Mail Welcome to the PT Snacks podcast with your host, Kasey! In this episode, we delve into the role of a clinical instructor (CI) for physical therapists and physical therapy students, addressing common challenges and providing strategies to ensure a successful rotation. From pre-arrival communication to day-one interactions, and ongoing feedback, Kasey covers how to make students feel comfortable, set clear expectations, and effectively guide them through their clinical training. Tune in for practical tips and insights to help both instructors and students thrive in a clinical setting. 00:00 Introduction to PT Snacks Podcast 00:18 Today's Topic: Becoming a Clinical Instructor 01:25 Setting Up for Success Before Day One 02:51 First Day: Meeting and Assessing Your Student 05:28 Guiding Through Evaluations and Treatments 11:05 Providing Feedback and Managing Expectations 14:34 Final Thoughts and Additional Resources Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
January 27 · 14 min
165. Patellar Dislocations & MPFL Management
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of PT Snacks Podcast, host Kasey dives deep into patellar dislocation and the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL). Learn about the anatomy, common causes, and risk factors of patellar dislocations, alongside assessment techniques and treatment options. Whether you're a physical therapist or PT student, this episode offers valuable insights into managing both non-operative and post-operative care for patients. Kasey also discusses patient readiness for returning to sports, highlighting the importance of both physiological and psychological factors. Tune in and expand your knowledge on handling one of the most common knee injuries. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks Podcast 00:14 Introduction to MPFL and Patellar Dislocation 01:18 Understanding the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) 03:02 Risk Factors for Patellar Dislocation 05:37 Assessment of Patellar Dislocation 07:31 Treatment Approaches for Patellar Dislocation 09:01 Rehabilitation and Return to Sport 12:15 Summary and Additional Resources 13:12 Closing Remarks and Announcements Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
January 20 · 15 min
164. Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Send us Fan Mail Join Kasey on the PT Snacks podcast as we delve into lumbar spinal stenosis, perfect for physical therapists and students eager to enhance their fundamentals. Understand the basics of stenosis, its impact on patients, and effective treatment approaches. Learn how to differentiate between types of stenosis, evaluate symptoms, and integrate conservative treatments with manual therapy and exercise for optimal patient outcomes. Stay informed on imaging techniques and when surgery might be necessary. Tune in for this bite-size segment and boost your practice skills! 00:00 Introduction to PT Snacks Podcast 00:48 Understanding Lumbar Spinal Stenosis 02:47 Symptoms and Causes of Lumbar Spinal Stenosis 07:57 Diagnosis and Imaging of Spinal Stenosis 10:45 Conservative Treatments for Spinal Stenosis 12:08 Surgical Options and Post-Op Care 12:49 Conclusion and Additional Resources Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
January 13 · 16 min
163. Rib Stress Fractures in Athletes
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the PT Snacks podcast, your host Kasey dives into the often-overlooked topic of rib stress fractures. Aimed at physical therapists and PT students, this segment focuses on identifying, understanding, and managing these injuries, particularly in rowers and overhead athletes. Learn about the prevalence, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment strategies for rib stress fractures, along with expert tips for differential diagnosis and patient management. Whether you’re prepping for your SCS or looking to improve patient outcomes, this episode offers valuable insights delivered in an engaging, bite-sized format. 00:00 Introduction to PT Snacks Podcast 00:17 Understanding Rib Stress Fractures 01:32 Prevalence and Affected Populations 03:26 Symptoms and Diagnosis 08:42 Differential Diagnoses 10:45 Management and Treatment 14:05 Imaging and Final Thoughts 15:14 Conclusion and Additional Resources Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!
January 6 · 15 min
162. 8 Things I Wish I Learned Sooner As a New Grad
Send us Fan Mail Welcome to the PT Snacks podcast with your host, Kasey! While this episode is geared toward new graduates, the insights are valuable for all physical therapists and students. You'll learn about continuous learning beyond PT school, the importance of rest, the value of mentorship, and the need for emotional intelligence in clinical practice. Tune in next week for a deep dive into rib stress fractures! 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:19 New Year, New Insights 00:42 Eight Things I Wish I Knew as a New Grad PT 03:10 The Importance of Continuous Learning 04:46 Valuing Rest and Avoiding Burnout 05:58 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Seeking Help 07:56 The Value of Mentorship 09:00 Recognizing Physical Therapy Limitations 09:56 Embracing the Challenges of the Job 12:23 The Role of Emotional Intelligence 14:14 Conclusion and Looking Ahead Need CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT Support the show Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount. Stay Connected! Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.com Join the email list HERE Support the Show: Share the episode with someone who'd benefit. Contributing directly to the "support" link. Thanks for tuning in—your support makes this all possible!

PT Snacks Podcast: Physical Therapy with Dr. Kasey Hankins

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162. 8 Things I Wish I Learned Sooner As a New Grad