PT Snacks Podcast: Physical Therapy with Dr. Kasey Hankins

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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

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In this episode, Kasey breaks down the high-level reasons why certain tendons are more predisposed t...

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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:

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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 o...

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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...

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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
...

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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 E...

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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 Co...

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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 A...

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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...

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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...

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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 qu...

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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...

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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 cl...

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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...

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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...

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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.<...

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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...

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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 In...

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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<...

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In this special end-of-year episode of PT Snacks Podcast, host Kasey talks about the importance of setting meaningful and achievable goals for physical therapists and students. Kasey introduces a 90-day challenge designed to help you focus on what aligns with your values and strengths. Learn how to prioritize your actions realistically and make small yet impactful changes. Tune in, reflect, and set the stage for a successful new year in your professional and personal life. Join the challenge [HERE]!

By the way, make sure to check your spam folder if you...

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Hey guys, welcome to PT Snacks podcast with Kasey as your host. In today's episode, we dive into Cloward's Sign, its origins, and its significance for physical therapists. We explore how Ralph Cloward's 1959 paper highlighted the connection between cervical discs and scapular pain, providing a map for diagnosing neck-related shoulder and thoracic discomfort. If your patients struggle with persistent scapular pain, tune in to learn how to distinguish between different types of pain, effective screening methods, and treatment plans. =

00:00 Introduction to PT Snacks Podcast
00:19 Understanding Cloward's Sign
01:09 Historical Background...

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In this episode of PT Snacks, we dive into the often-overlooked pillar of athletic performance: sleep. From injury prevention to muscle repair and hormonal balance, sleep plays a critical role in helping your athletes recover and perform at their best.

Learn how sleep quality, quantity, and timing affect strength, endurance, and even muscle regeneration on a cellular level. Plus, get actionable tips on sleep hygiene, environmental tweaks, and the science behind scheduled napping.

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In this episode of PT Snacks podcast, host Kasey dives deep into the topic of osteoporosis, exploring its definition, risk factors, prevalence, and the crucial role physical therapists play in managing it. Kasey explains what osteoporosis is, the impact it has on patients, and provides evidence-based strategies for addressing it through exercise. Learn about the importance of resistance training, balance, and impact exercises, and get practical tips for helping patients with different risk levels. Tune in to empower your practice and support your patients effectively!

00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks Podcast
01:10...

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Join Kasey on the PT Snacks Podcast as we delve into Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, a compression neuropathy affecting the posterior tibial nerve in the ankle. This episode covers the anatomy, symptoms, risk factors, and differential diagnosis, while also offering useful clinical tests and treatment approaches. Ideal for physical therapists and students, the episode provides bite-sized, fundamental knowledge aimed at improving patient care.

00:00 Introduction to PT Snacks Podcast
00:17 Understanding Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
02:59 Symptoms and Diagnosis of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
03:24 Who is at Risk?
04:39 Clinical Assessment and Differential Diagnosis<...

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In this episode of PT Snacks podcast, we delve into the topic of sports hernia, also known as athletic pubalgia. Listeners will learn about what a sports hernia is, how it occurs, and the anatomy involved, including key muscles and structures. The episode covers how to assess and treat this condition based on current research and...

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In this episode of PT Snacks podcast, host Kasey delves into Baker's Cysts, explaining what they are, how they form, and why they occur. You'll learn about the anatomy of the knee joint, the role of synovial fluid, and the common knee conditions that can lead to the development of these cysts. Learn insights on how...

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In this episode, we delve into the fundamentals of shoulder labral tears. Learn about the anatomy and function of the shoulder labrum, common types of labral tears, and how they occur. Discover methods to diagnose these injuries, including special tests and imaging techniques. We'll also explore treatment options, from conservative management to surgical intervention, and the...

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In this episode of PT Snacks podcast, we continue our discussion on the sacroiliac (SI) joint, discussing optimal manual techniques and exercises to help patients experiencing SI joint pain. We'll break down the function of the SI joint, explore the latest research on manual therapy, and explain why a combination of manual therapy and exercise is...

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In this episode, we cover the anatomy and functions of the menisci, the mechanisms behind various types of meniscal tears, and clinical assessment techniques. We also discuss when to opt for conservative care versus surgical treatment, and reviews special tests and imaging standards like MRIs. Tune in to enhance your understanding of knee meniscal injuries and...

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In this episode of PTs Snacks podcast, we cover the often misunderstood sacroiliac (SI) joint, explaining its anatomy and function. Listeners will learn about the causes of SI joint pain and the risk factors associated with it. We also discuss methods for diagnosing SI joint pain and effective treatments.

00:00 Introduction to PTs Snacks Podcast<...

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Welcome to PT Stocks podcast! In this episode, we dive into the fundamentals of using MRIs in physical therapy. MRIs are a great tool, but we need to learn how to use them appropriately to maximize their effectiveness. We'll explore key topics such as common asymptomatic MRI findings, when to order imaging, and how to educate...

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In this episode of PT Snacks podcast, we dive deep into scaphoid fractures, a common yet often mismanaged injury in younger and active individuals. Listeners will learn about the anatomy of the scaphoid bone, the typical mechanisms of injury, common diagnostic challenges, and both conservative and surgical treatment options. We explain the importance of recognizing and adequately managing these fractures to prevent complications like avascular necrosis and non-union. Tune in to enhance your knowledge and clinical skills regarding this significant topic in physical therapy.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:44 Topic Overview...

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In today's episode of PTs Snacks podcast, hosted by Kasey, we dive into the intricacies of high ankle sprains, also known as syndesmotic ankle sprains. We'll explore the relevant anatomy, common mechanisms of injury, diagnostic techniques, and treatment strategies. Kasey also highlights the importance of distinguishing high ankle sprains from other types of ankle injuries and discusses both non-surgical and surgical management approaches. Whether you're a seasoned physical therapist or a student, this episode is packed with valuable insights to enhance your clinical practice.

00:00 Introduction to PTs Snacks Podcast
00:19 Understanding...

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In this episode of the PT Snacks podcast, host Kasey delves into medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries. Listeners will gain insights into the anatomy of the MCL, common causes of injury, and who is most susceptible. The episode also covers how to assess and diagnose MCL injuries using specific tests and medical imaging, as well as treatment options and prognosis for different injury grades. Suitable for physical therapists and students, this episode provides essential knowledge to enhance their understanding of knee injuries and effective treatment strategies.

00:00 Introduction to MCL Injuries

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In this episode of the PT Snacks podcast, we dive into the topic of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S). Aimed at physical therapists and students, this discussion covers the basics of RED-S, including its causes, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. We explain how this condition affects various body systems and performance, and highlight the role of physical therapists in screening and referring patients. Additionally, listeners will learn about the types of athletes at risk, signs to watch for in the clinic, and available screening tools. Tune in to enhance your...

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In this episode of PT Snacks Podcast, we discuss the essentials of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) for physical therapists and students. Learn about the creation and types of PRP, its intended effects, and practical applications in treating various conditions such as osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, and tendinopathies. We also dive into the evidence supporting PRP's effectiveness and provides insights on how to communicate this information to patients. 

00:00 Introduction to PT Snacks Podcast
00:45 Today's Topic: Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
01:39 Understanding PRP: What It Is and How It's Made
02:50 Types o...

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In this episode of PTs Snacks podcast, we dive into Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD). Listeners will learn about the nature of whiplash, common causes, and the anatomical structures involved. We discusse how to effectively evaluate patients using various screening tools and questionnaires, and emphasizes the importance of differentiating WAD from other cervical spine traumas. The episode covers best practices for treating WAD through a multimodal approach that includes manual therapy, exercise, patient education, and nerve mobilization. Tips for practicing and screening for red flags are provided, along with insights on how to empower...

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In this episode of PTs Snacks Podcast, host we dive deep into the topic of spondylolythesis, discussing what it is, the different types, how to evaluate it, and typical treatment approaches. We explore several classifications, including dysplastic, isthmic, degenerative, traumatic, and pathologic types, and explains common symptoms and patient presentations. We also covers diagnostic tools such as radiographs and MRIs, and outlines treatment and management strategies, stressing the importance of creating a healing environment and referring patients to specialists when necessary. 

00:00 Introduction to PTs Snacks Podcast
00:21 Understanding Spondylolysis
02:57 Types o...