The SumMARY

Sit. Stay. Rehabilitate.: The Impact of Animal-Assisted Therapy Dogs

In this episode, we explore the unique role of animal-assisted therapy in a rehabilitation hospital and the longstanding partnership between Mary Free Bed and PAWS With A Cause. Hosts Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry welcome PAWS With A Cause chief executive officer Michele Suchovsky and Mary Free Bed recreational therapist and animal-assisted therapy dog handler Katie Harrington for a conversation about the many ways therapy dogs support patients throughout their rehabilitation journey. From improving patient outcomes to boosting motivation, this episode highlights how these remarkable canines help restore hope, confidence and independence every day. Katie and Michele explain how dogs are selected and trained for this unique role, how therapists build sessions around individual patient goals and how the groundbreaking partnership between Mary Free Bed and PAWS With A Cause has informed and evolved AAT in practice. Dr. Sinskey also shares how her own experiences with facility dogs led her to foster dogs for PAWS With A Cause. In this episode: How animal-assisted therapy became part of rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed What makes a dog suited for work in a clinical environment The difference between certified facility dogs and traditional service dog How therapists incorporate dogs into individual rehabilitation goals How Vandy, Faith and Winton helped shape the program The longstanding partnership between Mary Free Bed and PAWS With A Cause Join the Conversation Join the conversation with fellow physiatrists and health care professionals as we explore ideas and share solutions to improve patient care. Connect with us on social media today! Instagram Subscribe on LinkedIn About The SumMARY Welcome to The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and healthcare innovators. Dr. Sinskey earned her medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed and further specialized with an amputee fellowship at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Henry is triple board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, pediatrics, and pediatric rehabilitation medicine. He joined Mary Free Bed in 2019 after serving at Cleveland Clinic, where he became an expert in managing pediatric chronic pain conditions. The SumMARY is brought to you by Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, the nation’s largest non-profit rehabilitation system. Official website: https://www.maryfreebed.com/the-summary-podcast/

Helping Kids Thrive: Mary Free Bed Center for Limb Differences

What happens when clinical expertise meets lived experience? Let's figure it out. It's a simple phrase, but it reflects the creativity, collaboration and persistence required to help patients reach their fullest potential. In the latest episode of The Summary, we explore the Mary Free Bed Center for Limb Differences, a program that has been helping children with limb differences since 1946. The Center for Limb Differences was the nation's first pediatric amputee clinic and among the first programs in the world dedicated exclusively to caring for children with limb differences. For nearly 80 years, it’s helped shape the way pediatric limb difference care is delivered today. Founded by pioneering physicians Dr. Charles Frantz and Dr. George Aiken, the program introduced a multidisciplinary model that brought orthopedic care, prosthetics, therapy and psychosocial support together around a single goal: helping children live full, independent lives. Today, that same philosophy continues through a team that includes pediatric orthopedic surgeons, prosthetists, orthotists, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, psychologists, recreational therapists, physiatrists and, most importantly, families. The CLD cares for children from birth through age 18 with congenital and acquired limb differences affecting the arms, hands, legs and feet. The team also provides prenatal consultations, prosthetic management, surgical planning, limb lengthening, limb salvage care and support as children transition into adulthood. In this episode, hosts Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry welcome pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. Michael Forness and certified prosthetist/orthotist Katy Thorpe to discuss how personalized care helps children build mobility, confidence and independence. The conversation goes beyond surgery and prosthetic technology. It also explores the emotional journey families experience, the importance of peer support and the power of helping children see themselves as more than a diagnosis. Katy brings a particularly powerful perspective. Born with a limb difference and a prosthesis user for more than 40 years, she now helps children and families navigate many of the same questions her own family once faced. Listen, watch and learn about: Treatment options for congenital limb differences, including reconstruction, limb lengthening and amputation How prosthetic care evolves as children grow Why multidisciplinary care leads to better outcomes The importance of community, peer support and family connections For eight decades, the Center for Limb Difference has helped children build confidence, mobility and independence. As technology advances and access expands, the future of limb difference care is becoming more personalized, more innovative and more empowering than ever before. Join the Conversation Join the conversation with fellow physiatrists and health care professionals as we explore ideas and share solutions to improve patient care. Connect with us on social media today! Instagram Subscribe on LinkedIn About The SumMARY Welcome to The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and healthcare innovators. Dr. Sinskey earned her medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed and further specialized with an amputee fellowship at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Henry is triple board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, pediatrics, and pediatric rehabilitation medicine. He joined Mary Free Bed in 2019 after serving at Cleveland Clinic, where he became an expert in managing pediatric chronic pain conditions. The SumMARY is brought to you by Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, the nation’s largest non-profit rehabilitation system. Official website: https://www.maryfreebed.com/the-summary-podcast/

Kidney Disease: Living Beyond Dialysis

Kidney disease is often called a “silent illness,” but its impact on daily life is anything but quiet. In this episode of The SumMARY, we sit down with nephrologist Dr. Dan Meyer and occupational therapy assistant Natalie Frias to explore kidney disease through both a clinical and lived-experience lens. Together, they unpack what it means to live with chronic kidney disease, navigate dialysis and move forward after transplant. This episode covers: · How kidney disease develops and why symptoms often go unnoticed · The physical and mental impact of dialysis, including fatigue and cognitive changes · The role of rehabilitation in helping patients adapt, conserve energy and maintain independence · The emotional weight of chronic illness for patients and caregivers · Why early detection and prevention are critical From Patient to Clinician at Mary Free Bed: A Note From Natalie Frias, COTA “For me, kidney disease isn’t just a diagnosis. It’s the chapter that reshaped my future, strengthened my resilience and ultimately led me to my role as a certified occupational therapy assistant at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital. Chronic illness doesn’t only affect organ systems. It reshapes identity, independence and the ability to plan for the future.” Read Natalie’s full op-ed here: https://www.maryfreebed.com/kidney-disease-recovery-transplant/. Join the Conversation Join the conversation with fellow physiatrists and health care professionals as we explore ideas and share solutions to improve patient care. Connect with us on social media today! Instagram Subscribe on LinkedIn About The SumMARY Welcome to The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and healthcare innovators. Dr. Sinskey earned her medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed and further specialized with an amputee fellowship at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Henry is triple board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, pediatrics, and pediatric rehabilitation medicine. He joined Mary Free Bed in 2019 after serving at Cleveland Clinic, where he became an expert in managing pediatric chronic pain conditions. The SumMARY is brought to you by Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, the nation’s largest non-profit rehabilitation system.

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Evolving Neurosurgical Management of Spasticity

In this episode of The Summary, we welcome Dr. Casey Madura, section chief of pediatric neurosurgery at Corewell Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. Dr. Madura shares his expertise about neurosurgical treatments for spasticity in children and adults. He focuses on selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) and other emerging surgical options. Together, they break down why and when spasticity is treated. They also discuss how SDR works, and why early intervention—combined with intensive rehabilitation—can reduce pain, improve mobility and limit future orthopedic surgeries. Dr. Madura explains patient selection and ideal timing. He also emphasizes the crucial role family commitment plays in long-term outcomes. The conversation explores alternatives like baclofen pumps, palliative dorsal and ventral rhizotomies and peripheral neurotomies—highlighting the benefits, limitations and decisions behind each approach. Guest Casey Madura, M.D. Pediatric Neurosurgeon, Corewell Health Dr. Casey Madura is a pediatric neurosurgeon and section chief at Corewell Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. He earned his master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health and his medical degree from the University of Michigan. He completed his neurosurgery residency at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and his pediatric neurosurgery fellowship at Children’s Hospital of Alabama. His work centers on developing a comprehensive surgical epilepsy program and expanding advanced surgical options for children with severe spasticity. About The SumMARY The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and health care innovators. Connect with us on The SumMARY Podcast social media channels or visit our web page.

Paving the Path: The Fight for Rehabilitation in Ghana

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Abena Tannor—a leading physiatrist, sports and exercise rehabilitation physician and global health expert. Dr. Tannor shares her powerful journey as Ghana’s first PM&R and sports, exercise and rehabilitation medicine physician. She’s a dedicated trailblazer who’s shaping the future of rehabilitation care in her country every day. As a World Health Organization rehabilitation consultant and member of the Ghana Olympic Committee, Dr. Tannor offers a look at the realities of building a PM&R Residency Program in Ghana from the ground up. She candidly discusses the challenges of grassroots program development and navigating socioeconomic barriers within the health care system. Dr. Tannor paints a vivid picture of Ghana’s medical landscape—addressing stigma surrounding individuals with disabilities, the current state of access to rehabilitation services and the critical need for sustainable rehab infrastructure. She shares what keeps her motivated on the hardest days and her hopeful vision for the future of physiatry and rehabilitation in Ghana. This inspiring conversation highlights resilience, leadership and the power of rehabilitation to restore dignity, function and hope. LinkedIn Instagram The SumMARY Welcome to The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and healthcare innovators. Dr. Sinskey earned her medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed and further specialized with an amputee fellowship at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Henry is triple board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, pediatrics, and pediatric rehabilitation medicine. He joined Mary Free Bed in 2019 after serving at Cleveland Clinic, where he became an expert in managing pediatric chronic pain conditions. The SumMARY is brought to you by Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, the nation’s largest non-profit rehabilitation system.

"How's Ed?" - Advocacy & Accuracy in Disorders of Consciousness

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Jean Woo from Baylor College of Medicine and Dr. Bei Zhang from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center—two leading physiatrists and brain injury specialists—as they take us inside the complex world of disorders of consciousness (DoC). They break down how clinicians identify and support patients across the DoC spectrum, from coma and unresponsive wakefulness to minimally conscious states. Through tools like the Coma Recovery Scale–Revised (CRS-R), detailed bedside observation and personally meaningful stimuli, they show how even the smallest responses can reveal unexpected awareness. Drs. Woo and Zhang emphasize a powerful principle: always assume patients can hear, see and understand, even when they don’t appear to be conscious at all. They also dig into barriers to rehabilitation access and close the episode with a thoughtful exploration of the “disability paradox.” LinkedIn Instagram The SumMARY Welcome to The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and healthcare innovators. Dr. Sinskey earned her medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed and further specialized with an amputee fellowship at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Henry is triple board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, pediatrics, and pediatric rehabilitation medicine. He joined Mary Free Bed in 2019 after serving at Cleveland Clinic, where he became an expert in managing pediatric chronic pain conditions. The SumMARY is brought to you by Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, the nation’s largest non-profit rehabilitation system.

From Consult to Comeback: Building the “Easy Button” for Inpatient Rehab

In this episode, we welcome Holly Banninga, director of inpatient access at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, and Dr. Christopher Rizik, medical director of inpatient access. Together, they bring two unique perspectives: Dr. Rizik provides the patient-facing perspective, while Holly gets candid about what goes on behind the scenes when coordinating patient care. Together they break down how physiatry consult services bridge the gap between acute care hospitals and inpatient rehabilitation. From the vital role of physician liaisons to Mary Free Bed’s commitment to taking patients regardless of insurance and partnering across different health systems, this conversation highlights the importance of a team-forward approach to getting patients the care they need. Learn how consults go beyond discharge planning. Early involvement, strong relationships and collaboration across disciplines can change the course of a patient’s recovery. LinkedIn Instagram The SumMARY Welcome to The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and healthcare innovators. Dr. Sinskey earned her medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed and further specialized with an amputee fellowship at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Henry is triple board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, pediatrics, and pediatric rehabilitation medicine. He joined Mary Free Bed in 2019 after serving at Cleveland Clinic, where he became an expert in managing pediatric chronic pain conditions. The SumMARY is brought to you by Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, the nation’s largest non-profit rehabilitation system.

Behind the Scenes: Lessons from the PM&R Program Director’s Chair

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Micheal Andary, residency program director at Michigan State University Sparrow, and Dr. Adam Lamm, program director and designated institutional official at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital. With Dr. Andary bringing more than three decades of perspective and Dr. Lamm adding the lens of a newer program director, the conversation covers evolving challenges—and rewards—of leading residency training. From shifting accreditation requirements to the reality of burnout, they share candid reflections on what it takes to balance responsibility, resilience, and resident success. Whether you’re considering a leadership role in medical education or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, this episode pulls back the curtain on the life of a program director. LinkedIn Instagram The SumMARY Welcome to The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and healthcare innovators. Dr. Sinskey earned her medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed and further specialized with an amputee fellowship at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Henry is triple board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, pediatrics, and pediatric rehabilitation medicine. He joined Mary Free Bed in 2019 after serving at Cleveland Clinic, where he became an expert in managing pediatric chronic pain conditions. The SumMARY is brought to you by Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, the nation’s largest non-profit rehabilitation system.

A Physicians Perspective: Inching Back to "Normalcy" After Cancer

What is it like when a physician has a serious illness – how does it affect them, and how does it affect the care they give patients? In this special episode of The SumMARY, Dr. Yunna Sinskey opens up to Dr. Doug Henry about her personal journey with stage 3 rectal cancer. She discusses her initial diagnosis and the tough reality of life after treatment, all while sharing honest insights on physical exhaustion and the mental toll of PTSD. Learn how her personal experience has shaped the way she connects with patients who are adjusting to their own diagnoses. This episode is about resilience, healing and the importance of giving patients the time and care they truly need. Read Dr. Sinskey’s story in here own words here. LinkedIn Instagram The SumMARY Welcome to The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and healthcare innovators. Dr. Sinskey earned her medical degree from the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. She completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed and further specialized with an amputee fellowship at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Henry is triple board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, pediatrics, and pediatric rehabilitation medicine. He joined Mary Free Bed in 2019 after serving at Cleveland Clinic, where he became an expert in managing pediatric chronic pain conditions. The SumMARY is brought to you by Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, the nation’s largest non-profit rehabilitation system.

The Cancer Continuum: Physiatry’s Expanding Role

Cancer rehabilitation is an evolving field that plays a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes across the cancer care continuum. The topic is deeply personal for host Dr. Sinskey. In this episode, Dr. Sinskey and Dr. Henry speak with Dr. Sean Smith, medical director of Michigan Medicine’s Cancer Rehabilitation Program, about key cancer rehab topics including prehabilitation, integrating rehabilitation into oncology care, and emerging care models that support function. Guest Sean Smith, M.D. Physiatrist, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan Health LinkedIn Instagram The SumMARY is brought to you by Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation, the nation's largest non-profit rehabilitation system.

The Right Fit: Optimizing Outcomes in Amputation Rehab

When it comes to prosthetics, “the right fit” is about finding the right plan, the right timing, and the right team. In this episode, Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry sit down with amputation rehabilitation expert, Dr. Rebecca Speckman, physiatrist, University of Washington and VA Puget Sound Health Care System, to discuss the physiatrist’s role in amputee care, and the latest advancements in prosthetics and treatments. Join the Conversation: Complex care. Better outcomes. Amputee care isn’t one-size-fits-all—and neither are the decisions that come with it. How do you navigate these moments with your patients and care teams? We’d love to hear your perspective. LinkedIn Instagram Guest Rebecca Speckman, M.D. PhD. Physiatrist, University of Washington and VA Puget Sound Health Care System Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Dr. Speckman in this episode are her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of her employer or any affiliated organizations. Her participation in this podcast is in a personal capacity and does not represent official positions or endorsements.

Pioneering Dysphagia Care: The Art & Science of Swallowing

Swallowing might seem simple—until it isn’t. Dysphagia is a complex and often overlooked challenge, but cutting-edge treatments are changing the innovation game. In this episode, Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry sit down with dysphagia experts Dr. Eric Geiser, of Trinity Health Mary Free Bed, and Mary Free Bed speech-language pathologist Kate Armstrong, to explore the latest advancements in treatments. From innovative and team-based approaches, they break down what every health care provider should know. Join the Conversation Dysphagia treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Successfully transitioning patients with complex airways to oral feeding and drinking is a delicate process that requires thoughtful strategies. Finding the right approach can be challenging, but it's essential for effective care. How is your hospital tackling dysphagia treatment? Let’s share ideas and explore better solutions together! Join the conversation with fellow healthcare professionals on our social media channels today! LinkedIn Instagram

FND Uncovered: From Diagnosis to Rehabilitation

Functional neurological disorder is a commonly misunderstood diagnosis. In this episode, Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry sit down with FND expert Dr. Ginger Polich, from Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, to break down this complex condition. From its bio-psychosocial roots to practical tips on diagnosis and treatment-we explore the nuances every doctor should know. Join the Conversation "One of the things I really enjoy about working with pediatric FND patients is finding creative ways to shift their focus and help them overcome what they think they can’t do. Moments like that show how powerful the mind-body connection really is." – Dr. Doug Henry FND remains a misunderstood and complex challenge in PM&R. Treatment isn’t easy, and finding effective strategies is essential. How is your hospital or clinic approaching FND? What new research has you excited? Let’s share ideas and explore how we can better treat FND—join the conversation with fellow health care professionals on our social media channels today!

Deep Dive with DeepScribe: Exploring AI-Assisted Medical Documentation

In our debut episode, Mary Free Bed physiatrists, Yunna Sinskey, M.D., and. Johnathan VandenBerg, D.O., speak with Dean Dalili, M.D., MHCM, chief medical officer of DeepScribe. Discover the “what, why, and how” of AI’s evolution in medical documentation and its impact on the future of how we work. Join the Conversation Embracing AI in Medical documentation isn’t about replacing the human touch— it’s about freeing us up for what we love to do, and what we do best.” Yunna Sinskey, M.D. It seems like we’re all becoming tech kids these days. AI is revolutionizing health care — how is your hospital responding to the change? What’s working, what’s not, and what excites you most? Let’s talk! Connect with fellow health care professionals on our social media channels today.

Introducing The SumMARY Podcast

Welcome to The SumMARY Podcast, where we explore the complexities of physical medicine and rehabilitation, one topic at a time. Hosted by Dr. Yunna Sinskey and Dr. Doug Henry, we “sum up” the latest insights, innovations, and practices in PM&R, featuring conversations with leading physicians and healthcare innovators. Subscribe now!