The Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy Degenerative Disease Special Interest Group (DDSIG) is a component of the American Physical Therapy Association. The DDSIG is comprised of physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and students in physical therapy programs that have an interest in neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotropic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, and others. The DDSIG provides a forum to discuss advances in…
In this episode, host Ken Vinacco is joined by CSM 2026 DD SIG Platform Award winner Franchino Porciuncula. They discuss this study on use of RAS for improving gait automaticity in people with PD. In this study, Dr. Porciuncula explored the possible mechanisms by which RAS works. We also learn more about FNIRS technology for mobile brain imaging. Ever wondered what’s going on in the brain when you…
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…
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…
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…
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:…
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…
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…
