DESCRIPTION:

This course is designed for clinicians and student physical therapists interested in refining  manual therapy thrust techniques for treatment of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.

- This course integrates modern biomechanical evidence and neurophysiological principles to improve confidence in implementing thrust techniques in clinical practice.

- Faculty have robust knowledge in manual therapy techniques, extensive experience in applying and modifying these techniques for the treatment of a variety of musculoskeletal ailments, and are adept at aiding other clinicians in refining their skills.

- Faculty will briefly review the evidence and indications for applying spinal manipulation, including essential vascular and neurological screening. The bulk of the course will focus on high-quality skills practice in a collaborative learning environment.

*Note - Physical Therapist Assistants and Physical Therapist Assistant students are welcome to attend for knowledge acquisition and to be practice partners for attendees, but not to perform spinal manipulation given the NC Board of Physical Therapy Examiner’s scope of practice Position Statement “Performance of Mobilization by a Physical Therapist Assistant”

SPEAKERS:

Patrick Ward, PT, DPT, is a Senior Physical Therapist with Duke University Health System and a Lecturer in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Duke University. He also serves as Adjunct Faculty in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Augustana University. 

Dr. Ward is actively involved in postgraduate physical therapy education and professional development. He serves as the Coordinator of the Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency Program at Duke University Health System and is faculty in the Duke University Hybrid Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Residency Program as well as the Duke University Health System Orthopaedic and Manual Physical Therapy Fellowship. Through these roles, he contributes to the education and mentorship of physical therapy students, residents, and fellows. 

His clinical practice focuses on orthopedic and musculoskeletal rehabilitation as well as vestibular therapy, with an emphasis on delivering high-quality, efficient, and evidence-informed patient care. Dr. Ward is also dedicated to teaching and mentoring clinicians to develop strong clinical reasoning so they too can provide effective care to diverse patient populations. 

Andréas Remis, PT, DPT

Andréas Remis is a board-certified Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapist within the Duke University Health System. He serves as faculty in residency and fellowship programs at Duke University and the University of Southern California. He earned his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree with highest distinction from the University of Nebraska Medical Center (2022). He completed Orthopedic Residency training at the Mayo Clinic (2023), followed by Spine Fellowship training at the University of Southern California (2024), and Orthopedic Manual Therapy Fellowship training at Duke University (2025). Dr. Remis has delivered more than 39 professional presentations at local, national, and international conferences and has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications in journals including Spine, NASSJ, and the European Spine Journal. His work has been recognized with early-career honors, including the North American Spine Society SpineLine 20 Under 40 Award and the Foundation for Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy Scholarship. He is committed to advancing the profession of physical therapy through precise, individualized care grounded in clinical excellence and empathy

Jennifer Bent, PT, MPT

Jennifer provides a contemporary, customized approach to the management of acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, utilizing her extensive post-graduate training as a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist and a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists. 

As Adjunct Faculty, Jennifer specializes in teaching basic skills and applied physiology, bridging the gap between foundational biological principles and clinical practice. Her current research focuses on integrating high fidelity manual therapy with 3rd order systems design to optimize patient care. 

A recipient of awards for leadership, service, and character, Jennifer has presented at state and national conferences. Her background in team and group programming informs her unique approach to clinical practice, ensuring that patient care remains smooth, easy, and effective. 

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this education session, attendees will be able to:

Enhance clinical reasoning through literature review and discussion regarding evidence for spinal manipulation. 

Select appropriate patients based on physical therapy examination, including indications and contraindications for spinal manipulation.

Integrate high fidelity spinal manipulation techniques for cervical, thoracic, and lumbar segments.

Increase confidence in clinical integration of spinal manipulation

DESCRIPTION:

Aerobic conditioning remains a cornerstone intervention across physical therapy practice settings. Selected clinical practice guidelines and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) guidelines emphasize the use of maximal oxygen uptake (i.e., VO2max or VO2peak) to guide aerobic exercise prescription. This session will explore the practical application of VO₂ testing for assessment and the development of exercise prescriptions. The session will also cover expected physiological adaptations to aerobic training, timelines for change, and the concept of VO2 trainability - the individual variability in responsiveness to aerobic training. 

SPEAKERS:

Brian Neville, PT, DPT, PhD

Brian Neville is an Assistant Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Campbell University in Buies Creek, NC.  Brian earned his DPT at Duke University and practiced clinically in the sports and orthopedic private practice setting for over a decade before joining Campbell.  He earned his PhD in Rehabilitation Science from George Mason University, where his doctoral dissertation focused on the proteomic response to aerobic endurance training.  Teaching responsibilities at Campbell University include Exercise Physiology and Human Physiology. He has presented at APTA Combined Sections Meeting on Regenerative Rehabilitation and has published in the Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy Journal and the Physical Therapy Journal. 

Karlyn Green PT, DPT

Karlyn Green is an Assistant Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Campbell University in North Carolina.  She is an APTA board certified specialist in cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy and orthopedic physical therapy. Karlyn completed an orthopedic residency with HealthCare Partners/Kaiser Permanente and a cardiopulmonary residency with Duke University Hospital System. Karlyn has published in the Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy Journal, Physical Therapy Journal, and helped author the Restrictive Lung Disease chapter in the textbook Essentials of Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy. Karlyn has presented at APTA Combined Sections Meetings, the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation conference, and at North Carolina APTA conferences. She is active in the Academy of Cardiopulmonary Physical Therapy with current roles on the education committee and prior roles on the nominating committee and education committee. 

OBJECTIVES:

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

1.        Describe the physiological significance of VO₂ and its role in assessing aerobic capacity.

2.        Interpret VO₂ testing results to design personalized exercise prescriptions.

3.        Explain the concept of VO2 trainability and identify factors that influence individual variability in VO₂ training responses.

4.        Apply VO₂ data to monitor and adjust training programs for optimal outcomes.

DESCRIPTION:

Too many patients slip through the cracks of our healthcare system. People with disabilities with no where and no way to go. Young adults aging off coverage or unable to afford it. Systems where the wait is too long, the cost is too high,  the intake process is too daunting, and the sessions are too short to meet their needs. 

This session highlights many common problems that physical therapy patients face, and how physical therapists are uniquely positioned to identify and address them. Drawing from therapeutic alliance research, Self-Determination Theory, universal design principles, neuroplasticity, and global models of integrated care, presenters will introduce a replicable evidence-based framework for redesigning PT delivery from the ground up. Attendees will leave with concrete tools and considerations for building clinical environments where patients are given the right conditions to thrive, and no body slips through the cracks.

SPEAKERS:

Ethan Meng, PT, DPT is the founder and Executive Director of The Bridge Foundation of Wilmington, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit developing The Public House & Foundry — an integrated physical therapy, primary care, adaptive fitness, and community wellness center designed around the people traditional healthcare leaves behind. A 2024 graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, he specializes in sports and neurorehab, with a doctoral capstone focused on experience-dependent neuroplasticity. His clinical and systems work centers on therapeutic alliance, universal design, and healthcare access for underserved populations — grounded in the belief that the clinical environment itself is an intervention.

DeJ'a Crippen, PT, DPT is a vestibular physical therapist and owner of Steady Steps Physical Therapy in Delaware, specializing in dizziness, imbalance, BPPV, and balance disorders in older adults. A 2022 APTA Minority Scholarship recipient, Dr. Crippen earned her Doctorate from the University of Sciences in Philadelphia (now St. Joseph's University). Her clinical work is grounded in evidence-based vestibular rehabilitation with a focus on patient safety, confidence, and independence. As a private practice owner serving a population frequently underserved by traditional outpatient models, she brings a practitioner's perspective to the challenge of designing systems that meet patients where they are.

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session, participants will be able to:

IDENTIFY at least three structural barriers in traditional PT delivery models that contribute to delays in care or premature patient self-discharge

APPLY therapeutic alliance and Self-Determination Theory principles to clinical intake design, staffing models, and patient-provider matching

EVALUATE universal design standards as a clinical and ethical baseline for physical therapy practice environments

BUILD a replicable framework for integrated, accessible PT delivery within a community-based model

DESCRIPTION:

This session challenges the traditional curricular framing of therapeutic exercise and presents a practical framework for teaching exercise prescription with the use of AI that spans patient populations at all functional levels. Presenters will explain and demonstrate how they used AI to create real-world case examples that incorporate FITT-VP principles applied across neurorehabilitation, cardiopulmonary, and acute care contexts, and how comorbidities shape clinical decision-making.

Attendees will leave with concrete tools for expanding their own therapeutic exercise curricula to better prepare students for clinical practice in any setting that they choose.

SPEAKERS:

Dr. Colette Waddell is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Winston-Salem State University. She earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Emory University and completed the Faculty Development Residency at Duke University. With clinical expertise in acute care, she has worked in a level one trauma center, managing patients with spinal cord and brain injuries, and contributing to improved patient outcomes, reduced costs, and decreased length of stay. Her research focuses on enhancing the student experience in physical therapy education, with early outcomes exploring belongingness and the correlation between social determinants of health and academic performance. Her teaching/education expertise includes curricular development with managing complex patients across the lifespan. Dr. Waddell is passionate about diversifying the physical therapy profession and improving educational outcomes through a more inclusive and supportive environment. 

Dr. Tyler Johnston has been practicing PT for the past 10 years after getting his DPT from East Carolina University. He has worked exclusively in OP orthopedics and has specialized in treating individuals suffering with chronic neck and low back pain. He obtained his Orthopedic Certified Specialist certification from the APTA (2022) and graduated with his Doctorate of Education in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2024). He is an Assistant professor at Winston-Salem State University in their physical therapy program. His research focuses on the relationship developed between the patient and therapist and how therapists use this therapeutic relationship in clinical practice. His research is meant to provide education for working clinicians to help them improve their clinical practice with simple and practical information.

OBJECTIVES:

-Identify gaps in traditional therapeutic exercise curricula that limit graduate readiness to prescribe exercise across diverse patient populations and practice settings beyond orthopedics

-Apply FITT-VP and evidence-based exercise prescription principles to patients with neurological, cardiopulmonary, and acute care presentations, including those with complex comorbidities, at varying functional levels with the use of AI

-Integrate a continuum-of-care framework into therapeutic exercise coursework or clinical orientation programs to better prepare entry-level clinicians for real-world practice

DESCRIPTION:

Diet and nutrition play a crucial role in the prevention and management of many conditions commonly treated by physical therapists. While it is within the scope of physical therapy practice to screen for and provide general education on nutrition, understanding when to refer to a registered dietitian is essential for ethical and effective patient care. This session will explore the intersection of nutrition and physical therapy, emphasizing the importance of an interdisciplinary approach while clearly defining professional boundaries. Attendees will gain practical strategies for integrating nutrition education into patient management, recognizing red flags that require referral, and fostering collaboration with nutrition professionals. By understanding both the opportunities and limitations of nutrition in physical therapy, clinicians can enhance patient outcomes while maintaining professional integrity. This session is designed for physical therapists seeking to expand their knowledge in this critical area without overstepping their scope of practice. 

SPEAKERS:

Tara Caberwal, PT, DPT, DSc, FAAOMPT, OCS, COMT

Dr. Tara Caberwal is an Assistant Professor at Campbell University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program in Buies Creek, NC. She has over 15 years of clinical practice in military healthcare on Fort Bragg, NC serving as a contract physical therapist for the THOR3 Human Performance program within Special Operations.  Dr. Caberwal has completed her Doctorate of Science in Physical Therapy (DScPT), is an APTA Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), and Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (FAAOMPT). Currently, she serves as the chair of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy (AASPT) Tactical Special Interest Group (SIG). Her research interests include chronic MSK pain, TBI, and improving resiliency of the active-duty soldier. 

Laurel Wentz, PhD, RD, CSSD, LDN

Dr. Wentz is an Associate Professor in Nutrition at Appalachian State University, a Registered Dietitian, and a Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics. Dr. Wentz has international experience working with elite athletes and service members, first as the dietitian for Florida State Athletics, then US Army Special Forces, followed by a move to the United Kingdom where she completed a clinical trial to improve performance and immune function in British military recruits. She has coauthored manuscripts on performance and immune health in Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, European Journal of Nutrition, Nutrients, Military Medicine, and Journal of Sport and Health Science. Her research focus is sports nutrition to improve health and performance, by examining how nutrition influences metabolism, inflammation, and immune function during exercise.

OBJECTIVES:

1.  Define the role of diet and nutrition in primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of conditions commonly treated by physical therapists.

2.  Explain the professional scope of physical therapy practice regarding nutrition education and the importance of interprofessional collaboration.

3.  Identify appropriate scenarios where a physical therapist can provide nutrition-related education and when a referral to a registered dietitian is necessary.

4.  Differentiate between evidence-based nutrition guidance that falls within the PT scope and more specialized dietary interventions requiring expert referral.

DESCRIPTION:

As direct access expands, physical therapists increasingly function as first-contact healthcare providers.(1) This evolving role requires competency in red flag screening, review of systems, imaging considerations, and referral decision-making to ensure patient safety. However, clinicians report uncertainty in differential diagnosis when screening for serious medical conditions, and new graduates describe struggling to recognize and manage suspected pathology. (3,4) Additionally, most red flags lack high-quality evidence for diagnostic accuracy when interpreted in isolation.(6)

This presentation outlines a structured framework for triage, red flag screening, and imaging referral during musculoskeletal evaluation. Emphasis is placed on increasing confidence in screening systems, understanding psychometric properties of exam findings, and integrating clinical reasoning across multiple factors suggestive of non-musculoskeletal pathology. Through didactic instruction and case-based application, participants will determine appropriate referral pathways while navigating inherent clinical uncertainty. Attendees will gain practical strategies to support timely referral, enhance communication, and improve patient safety.

SPEAKERS:

Anju Dheer, PT, DPT, OCS, is an orthopedic physical therapist practicing in outpatient musculoskeletal care and an incoming Fellow-in-Training with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists through the Duke University Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy Fellowship. She has a clinical interest in spine-related conditions, including neck and low back pain, and values an evidence-informed approach to patient management.

Dr. Dheer is actively involved in clinical education and enjoys working with physical therapy students and early-career clinicians, with a focus on building confidence in red flag screening, review of systems, and referral decision-making. Her scholarly work includes case-based contributions exploring the role of physical therapists in recognizing conditions that may require medical referral.

Outside of work, she enjoys dancing and traveling with her family, especially exploring new cultures with her children.

Matt Manzo, PT, DPT, OCS is a physical therapist practicing as a Fellow-in-Training in the Duke Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy Fellowship. He completed his undergraduate training in Exercise Science at Sacred Heart University in 2017 and earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Army-Baylor University as an Army Physical Therapist in 2020. While serving as an Army PT, Matt held roles in trainee/recruit health, primary care PT, tactical human performance, and multi-disciplinary team leadership. Matt completed the Military Musculoskeletal PT Residency in 2024 and served as a faculty mentor within the program thereafter. He is passionate about optimizing population health, well-being, and performance by pursuing expert delivery of community-aligned physical therapy services. You can find Matt, otherwise, trail-running, hiking, or camping with his family. 

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session participants will be able to:

1.        Describe the role of physical therapists as first-contact providers, emphasizing red flag screening, systems review, and clinical reasoning within musculoskeletal evaluation. 

2.        Apply a structured triage framework to enhance confidence in red flag screening by integrating subjective and objective findings. 

3.        Differentiate musculoskeletal conditions from presentations suggestive of non-musculoskeletal pathology by synthesizing multiple clinical factors. 

4.        Integrate American College of Radiology (ACR) imaging criteria with red flag screening, incorporating psychometric properties of exam findings to guide imaging decisions and determine appropriate referral pathways for safe, timely patient management.

Every day, physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and practice owners navigate payment and payer-related challenges that affect patient care, practice operations, and professional satisfaction. Join this facilitated listening session to share your experiences, identify common themes, and help prioritize the issues that should guide APTA NC’s payment advocacy efforts. Rather than focusing on individual cases or immediate solutions, we’ll work together to identify the challenges with the greatest impact and opportunity for advocacy. Your input will help shape APTA NC’s strategic priorities for the coming year.

Objectives

By the end of the session, participants will have:

• Identified the payment and payer-related challenges that most significantly impact practice and patient care.

• Explored common experiences and themes across diverse practice settings.

• Collaboratively prioritized the issues with the greatest impact and opportunity for advocacy.

• Contributed to shaping APTA NC’s payment advocacy priorities and future payer engagement efforts.

Presenters: Marissa Carvalho, PT, DPT, MSQM and Kyle Covington, PT, DPT, PhD

D. Glenn Clarke, PT, DPT, SCS, CSCS, is a highly credentialed sports physical therapist with extensive expertise in athletic rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, and clinical education. He earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and is a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Sports Physical Therapy. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Human Movement Science, with a focus on the effect of posterior tibial slope on post-surgical functional and performance outcomes.   

Glenn practices at the Duke University Hospital Sports Medicine Clinic, where he focuses on post-surgical rehabilitation and return to sport, previously acting as a Sports Performance Specialist within the Duke FIFA Medical Center of Excellence. In addition to his clinical work, Glenn has previously presented at CSM on workload monitoring, data analysis, and return to sport protocols.    

Prior to pursuing his DPT, Glenn was the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach at the University of Chicago, and a Strength and Conditioning Coach at the University of Notre Dame where he coached Men’s Lacrosse, Men & Women’s Track and Field. Glenn currently resides in Raleigh, NC with his wife and three children.  

DESCRIPTION:

Skeletally immature athletes require specialized surgical and rehabilitation strategies due to open growth plates and ongoing musculoskeletal development. This session explores anatomical and physiological differences in adolescents, their impact on injury patterns, surgical choices, and rehab planning. We will review modern surgical techniques, including modified graft placement, lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET), alternative grafts, and Bridge-Enhanced ACL Repair (BEAR), discussing benefits and risks. Key rehabilitation topics include joint loading, neuromuscular training, and age-specific psychosocial factors affecting recovery. Return-to-sport decision-making will focus on evidence-based criteria, re-injury risk, and long-term knee health. This session equips clinicians with essential tools to optimize outcomes and minimize complications in young athletes.

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session, participants will be able to describe key anatomical and developmental differences in skeletally immature athletes that impact surgical and rehabilitative decision-making.

Upon completion of this educational session, participants will be able to compare surgical approaches for ACL and lower extremity injuries in young athletes, including considerations for altered graft placement, lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET), alternative graft choices, and the Bridge-Enhanced ACL Repair (BEAR) technique.

Upon completion of this educational session, participants will be able to develop evidence-based rehabilitation progressions that address skeletal immaturity, growth plate integrity, and sport-specific demands.

Upon completion of this educational session, participants will be able to implement return-to-sport protocols that integrate physiological readiness with long-term joint health considerations for skeletally immature athletes.

Cory Alcon, PT, DPT, PhD

Dr. Cory Alcon is Assistant Professor and Director of Assessment and Outcomes in the Department of Physical Therapy at HPU. He is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist with specific expertise in managing chronic neuromusculoskeletal pain conditions. Dr. Alcon holds a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Winston-Salem State University, and PhD from Texas Woman’s University in Dallas, TX with a concentration in pain neuromodulation. His research agenda focuses on harnessing the power of neuroplasticity to better manage the cognitive and affective dimensions of the pain experience. This includes the use of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques to prime specific brain regions prior to participation in cognitive behavioral therapy. At High Point he serves as course director for the Musculoskeletal Practice and Pain Science course series. His passion for teaching is founded on the desire to assist students in becoming complete clinicians that are psychologically informed, movement focused, and manually skilled.

DESCRIPTION:

Postoperative pain influences a large number of patients undergoing surgery and has the potential to become chronic. Once chronic, the rates of disability and opioid misuse climb while patient satisfaction falls. Improving perioperative screening allows providers to determine risks of chronic postoperative pain, including specific pain phenotypes, and promote improved, individualized management strategies. This educational session will provide practical tools to address chronic postoperative pain through improved pre- and postoperative assessment methods, specific patient education, and precise management of pain throughout postoperative phases. 

OBJECTIVES:

1. Upon completion of this educational session participants will be able to describe the prevalence and influences of chronic post-surgical pain

2. Upon completion of this educational session participants will be able to implement peri-operative screening techniques.

3. Upon completion of this educational session participants will be improve risk assessment and management of chronic postsurgical pain

Jerri Raquel-Morehead Shepard, PT, DPT, LMBT, MBA, MEd, CDP

Jerri serves as Acute Rehabilitation Services Manager at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist – High Point Medical Center. She has 20 years of experience, specializing in acute care. Passionate about teaching, Jerri also serves as adjunct professor at Winston-Salem State University and teaching assistant/instructor at High Point University for their DPT educational programs.

Jerri holds a BA in Communication Studies and Therapeutic Recreation (UNC-Wilmington), certificate in Massage and Bodywork Therapy (Florida College of Natural Health), Masters degrees in Physical Therapy (UNC-Chapel Hill), Adult Education (NC State University), and Business Administration with Healthcare Management Concentration (Fayetteville State University). She also completed her transitional DPT education (Winston-Salem State University). Jerri has continued training and certifications in clinical instruction (Level II), geriatric physical therapy, dementia care, and diversity, equity and inclusion.

In addition to working and teaching, Jerri is active with APTA-NC as chair of the Geriatric Special Interest Group and member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee.  She also proudly serves as a current member of the North Carolina Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.

DESCRIPTION:

This session will explore the impact of implicit bias on career opportunities, professional development, personal and professional experiences, and employee satisfaction through an interactive panel discussion.  Panelists will share their experiences navigating challenges and overcoming barriers in the course of their career.  Participants in this session will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in the conversation in a safe space, facilitating an environment where everyone belongs and creating a launching point for future conversations to be explored after the session end. 

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session, participants will be able to: 

1.        Define implicit bias and its impact on professional experiences.  

2.        Identify strategies to reduce implicit bias.

3.        Develop a general construct to start a courageous conversation in the workplace. 

Erin Weeks, PT, DPT

Erin Weeks received her MPT from the University of North Carolina atC hapel Hill and her DPT from the University of Montana.  She has been a Certified Wound Specialist through the American Board of Wound Management since 2013.  As the wound care clinical specialist at Carolinas Rehabilitation, her work has focused on patient and staff education and implementing evidence-based practices for patients with integumentary conditions.  She has over 15 years' experience treating patients with complex neurological injuries and is a clinical and didactic faculty member of the Atrium Health Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency.  She is the principal investigator of Carolinas Rehabilitation current physical therapy wound care research study and a guest instructor for UNC-CH's DPT program integumentary content. 

Amanda Hyslop, PT, DPT

Amanda Hyslop graduated in 2010 with her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Duke University. In 2015, Amanda developed and patented a Modular Mirror Box Therapy System for the Lower Extremity (Patent No. US 9,320,939 B1) and has presented on the topic of mirror therapy at the local and state level. She is an APTA Certified Clinical Instructor and member of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy. Amanda earned her board certification in neurologic physical therapy in 2018 after completing Atrium Health’s neurologic physical therapy residency. Amanda served as the Coordinator for the Atrium Health Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency from 2020-2023 and served in the role of Amputee Clinical Specialist from 2021-2025 for the Atrium Health system where she was actively involved in program improvement projects and system-wide educational initiatives. She is currently conducting an outcomes measure research study with the amputation population. Amanda also serves as adjunct faculty with South University and Tufts University Doctor of Physical Therapy programs.  

Carla Hill, PT, DPT

Carla Hill graduated with her MPT from Emory University and her DPT from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is a board certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and certified Exercise Expert for Aging Adults by APTA Geriatrics. Carla has provided care in outpatient physical therapy for more than 20 years and has served as a clinical instructor to DPT students and Orthopedic PT Residents. In addition to clinic practice, Carla serves as the Associate Director of the UNC Sports Medicine Institute where she co-leads programs that work to integrate clinical research into orthopedic and physical therapy practices. For the past 13 years, she has collaborated on funded and unfunded research projects through her work at UNC Health and the School of Medicine. Research projects have focused on randomized control trials related to exercise interventions for patients with knee osteoarthritis. 

DESCRIPTION:

As a profession, APTA’s strategic plan promotes research in physical therapy to enable physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) to be evidence-based providers. Utilizing research-informed practices is taught in our PT and PTA school, but conducting research has historically been left to those with terminal academic degrees (ie- PhD, EdD, DSc, etc). This session aims to educate and empower clinical PTs and PTAs with the knowledge needed to participate in conducting research and collaborating with others involved in research. We will share our lessons learned as clinicians who have engaged in research to mentor others with similar professional interests. Time will be saved for a Q&A session with the panelists for clinicians interested in pursuing research participation. 

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session participants will be able to: 

1. Discuss common challenges clinicians face when considering research participation, such as lack of time, resources, and research experience. 

2. Describe various entry points into research for clinicians, including collaborating with research teams, engaging in clinical trials, and participating in research networks. 

3. Identify strategies for clinicians to gradually build research skills, such as enrolling in research courses, attending workshops, or partnering with research mentors. 

4. Identify resources or networks that facilitate collaboration between clinicians and academic researchers. 

5. Explain how clinician involvement in research enhances the ability to integrate evidence-based practice into patient care. 

T.R. Goins, PT, PhD

Dr. T.R. Goins is an Assistant Professor of Health Sciences in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Campbell University in Lillington, NC. Dr. Goins has been a practicing pediatric physical therapist for over 20 years with an emphasis on improving outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities, across the lifespan. Her areas of research interest include birth brachial plexus injuries and improving functional reaching, assessing balance and postural control in the pediatric neurological population, and improving fitness and wellness in adults with developmental disabilities. 

Tara Caberwal, PT, DPT, DSc, FAAOMPT, OCS, COMT

Dr. Tara Caberwal is an Assistant Professor at Campbell University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program in Buies Creek, NC. She has over 15 years of clinical practice in military healthcare on Fort Bragg, NC serving as a contract physical therapist for the THOR3 Human Performance program within Special Operations.  Dr. Caberwal has completed her Doctorate of Science in Physical Therapy (DScPT), is an APTA Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), and Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (FAAOMPT). She currently serves as the chair for the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy (AASPT) Tactical Special Interest Group (SIG). Her research interests include chronic MSK pain, TBI, and improving resiliency of the active-duty soldier.

DESCRIPTION:

This course is designed to disseminate the literature and apply it to improving muscle performance in the pediatric population. This session will discuss muscle performance improvement in the typically developing population as well as the pediatric neuromuscular and genetic population. Have you asked yourself as a clinician, am I supposed to be using weights with this patient? When can I start using weights? What is the expected outcome with using weights? The intended objective for this session is to provide guidance and insight into those questions for the clinician treating the specialized pediatric population to the clinician treating the occasional pediatric patient.

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session participants will be able to:

Design and execute an intervention to address muscle performance to improve functional outcomes in the pediatric population.

Identify evidence-based parameters for applying and improving muscle performance in the pediatric population, based on age and medical diagnosis.

Discuss the barriers and constraints to improving muscle performance in the pediatric population.

Summarize the pathophysiology and physiology attributable to functional outcomes impacted by lack of and the need for pediatric muscle performance intervention across various populations. 

Courtney Lowman is currently a 3rd year doctoral student of the physical therapy program at UNC Chapel Hill. She has clinical experiences in Outpatient Orthopedics, Acute Trauma and Surgical Orthopedics, and residential care of patients with IDD. She has a passion for working with Orthopedic, Veteran, and the disabled patient populations. She has research experience in ACLR, which she completed during her undergraduate studies.

Laurie Ray, PT, PhD has 25 years of experience in school-based physical therapy practice in North Carolina. Dr. Ray has served North Carolina as the Physical Therapy Consultant for NC Department of Public Instruction (NC DPI) since 2005, Medicaid Consultant since 2006 and serves as Adapted Physical Education Liaison.

She received her MPT and PhD from UNC Chapel Hill. She is an Associate Professor in the Division of Physical Therapy at UNC-Chapel Hill. Laurie was a founding officer of the APTA NC Pediatric SIG and served as Communication Chair. Dr. Ray has held several leadership roles for the APTA Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy, Special Interest Groups (SIGs) Leadership Coordinator, Coordinator of the Innovations in School-based PT Annual Conference, Region V Representative, Chair of the School SIG and on the Policy, Payment and Advocacy Committee.

Dr. Ray previously served on the Boards of the National Alliance of Medicaid in Education and the NC Vocational Rehabilitation Council. She is a reviewer for Pediatric Physical Therapy and on the editorial board for Pediatric Occupational and Physical Therapy.   

DESCRIPTION:

The concept and framework surrounding participation among individuals with disabilities is one that is not fully understood in literature. The framework of the ICF model provides a foundation for participation but is too narrow to encompass the multidimensional aspects of participation in children with disabilities.There is little information on what constitutes participation and how physical therapists can further community participation in the pediatric population. Though articles have been published on factors influencing participation and their effects, few studies have investigated how to enhance and track community participation in pediatric populations. Physical therapists working alongside families and youth with disabilities will be able to provide assistance that promotes learning, community participation, and independence. This presentation will provide an evidence-based approach to assessing and tracking community participation as it relates to youth with disabilities. We will discuss how literature defines participation and how community participation can benefit children with disabilities. 

The concept and framework surrounding participation among individuals with disabilities is one that is not fully understood in literature. The framework of the ICF model provides a foundation for participation but is too narrow to encompass the multidimensional aspects of participation in children with disabilities.There is little information on what constitutes participation and how physical therapists can further community participation in the pediatric population. Though articles have been published on factors influencing participation and their effects, few studies have investigated how to enhance and track community participation in pediatric populations. Physical therapists working alongside families and youth with disabilities will be able to provide assistance that promotes learning, community participation, and independence. This presentation will provide an evidence-based approach to assessing and tracking community participation as it relates to youth with disabilities. We will discuss how literature defines participation and how community participation can benefit children with disabilities. 

OBJECTIVES:

Define the term participation in literature and how it relates to children with disabilities.

Identify factors influencing community participation.

Explain the information needed for enhancing community participation in children with disabilities.

Compile a list of tools and outcome measures for tracking and evaluating participation.

Formulate strategies for improving community participation in children with disabilities.

Jessica Juan, PT, DPT is originally from San Francisco, California. She completed her undergraduate degree in Human Biology at the University of Southern California and her Doctor of Physical Therapy at the University of Colorado Anschutz medical campus. Afterwards, she went through her orthopedic residency at Stanford Healthcare. Currently, she is a part of the Manual Therapy Fellowship out of the Duke University Health System. Throughout her career, she has given both poster and platform presentations at the states and national level. Her passions lie in orthopedic care and diversity equity and inclusion and is a member of the APTA Orthopedic’s inaugural DEI committee. She looks forward to a career within research and education, whilst exploring her love of travel and the outdoors. 

Shane Mathew, PT, DPT is a Senior Orthopaedic Physical Therapist a Duke University Health. He attended the University of Florida for his undergraduate and DPT education, then completed the Duke Health Orthopaedic Residency in 2024. He is now a Fellow-in-Training in the Duke Orthopaedic Manual Therapy Fellowship. Shane is a process-oriented learner and leader and is passionate about enhancing clinical reasoning to drive patient outcomes using an evidence-based and culturally informed approach. He has experience with public speaking on the local and national level and has presented at the 2023 and 2024 APTA NC Annual Conferences. He is a 2023 APTA Leadership Scholar and currently holds appointments on the APTA Orthopaedic Finance Committee, APTA NC OSIG, and he serves as the Chair of the Duke Health Rehabilitation Services DEI Committee. In addition to these initiatives, Shane serves as a Teaching Assistant in several Duke DPT courses and is passionate about mentoring students in and out of the classroom. In his spare time, Shane enjoys hiking, cooking, weightlifting, and exploring all that NC has to offer.

Yiliu Cao, DPT is the 2025–2026 Orthopaedic Resident Physical Therapist at Duke University Health System. Yiliu received her bachelor’s degree in Movement Science from the University of Michigan in 2021 and her Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master of Public Health dual degree from Northwestern University in 2025. With her professional interest in integrating public health principles into clinical practice, Yiliu is passionate about providing holistic care and reducing health disparities by addressing the multiple layers of influence on an individual’s health behavior. She is also interested in sports injury prevention and rehabilitation among endurance sports participants. During her graduate training, she collaborated with Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Prosthetics and Orthotics Center to develop an aggregated transportation service pamphlet for patients, alongside a research proposal investigating how transportation access may be a barrier to P&O service utilization. Yiliu Cao is the 2025-2026 Duke Orthopedic Resident and will receive direct mentorship throughout the design and implementation of the lecture as she seeks continued growth in teaching/presenting. 

DESCRIPTION:

While physical therapists strive for clinical excellence through evidence-based practice and technical skill, we may underestimate how contextual factors—such as cost, insurance coverage, transportation, and provider availability—impact a patient’s rehabilitation experience and outcomes. Clinical expertise holds little value if patients cannot access care. Additionally, the perception of successful rehabilitation varies between clinicians and patients. While therapists often prioritize functional gains, patients may place equal or greater value on an empathetic therapeutic environment where they feel heard, respected, and supported. Therefore, we must treat the whole person, not just the condition, to optimize rehabilitation care.

This discussion will explore how integrating a social health screening tool, especially during subjective history acquisition, can help physical therapists better understand and address the personal and environmental barriers patients face. Considering these contextual factors, we can enhance clinical decision-making, improve outcomes, and move the profession forward through more patient-centered, equitable care.

OBJECTIVES:

By the end of this educational sessions, participants will be able to: 

1. Identify the key social determinants of health (SDOH) that impact patients with musculoskeletal conditions.

2. Describe how SDOH and provider characteristics influence patients' access to care, adherence to treatment plans, overall well-being, and the therapeutic relationship.

3. Explain how physical therapists can incorporate knowledge of SDOH and the impact of provider attributes to move beyond traditional treatment models.

4. Discuss strategies for implementing holistic, patient-centered care to reduce health disparities and improve the effectiveness of musculoskeletal interventions.

5. Analyze the role of physical therapists in advocating for policy changes to contribute to a more equitable healthcare system.

Joel Robert Thompson, PT, DPT is a Physical Therapist specializing in inflammation and inflammatory arthritis who is currently a PhD student within UNC-CH's Human Movement Sciences Curriculum.  He works within UNC's Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation (RMR) Lab with a current focus in exploring how physical therapy may be utilized and included within routine rheumatological management to preserve function and valued activities throughout the lifespan and disease progression of patients with inflammatory arthritis.  He is also partly responsible for delivering the pharmacology and inflammatory arthritis content within UNC-CH's DPT program.  He has received the Rheumatology Research Foundation's Health Professional Online Education Grant for Advanced Rheumatology Coursework.  His research has been presented at the national conferences for the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the Spondylarthritis Research and Treatment Network (SPARTAN). He currently serves on the Association of Rheumatology Provider’s (ARP) E-Learning Committee.

Louise Thoma, PT, DPT, PhD is an assistant professor in the Division of Physical Therapy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and leads the Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Lab. Dr. Thoma’s research focuses on optimizing rehabilitation to improve physical activity and physical function and prevent disability in people with arthritis and after joint injury. She is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association, Association of Rheumatology Professionals, and Osteoarthritis Research Society International. She serves on the editorial board of Arthritis Care and Research, the Steering Committee of the Rehabilitation Discussion Group of the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI), and the American College of Rheumatology Early Career Researchers subcommittee.

Katherine ("Katie") Zisk, PT, DPT earned her Bachelor of Science in Education in Kinesiology - Sports Medicine from the University of Virginia. She then earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at The George Washington University in Washington, DC. Katie is a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists after completing the Northwestern University Fellowship in Advanced Orthopedic Physical Therapy Practice, Research and Education in 2020-2021. Sher is an assistant professor in the Division of Physical Therapy at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a research physical therapist with the Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Lab, consulting about rehabilitation needs for adults with inflammatory arthritis.

DESCRIPTION:

Physical therapy was historically a common component of rheumatology care for inflammatory arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritis. However, medical management has vastly improved in the last 20 years, and the role of physical therapy may be overlooked. Adults with inflammatory arthritis continue to report limitations in mobility, function, and quality of life, even when disease is well-controlled. Physical therapists are experts in optimizing physical function and participation, however experience with rheumatic conditions is rare. This session aims to update physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, and students with the contemporary best practices for inflammatory arthritis, including evidence updates, historical perspectives, and case scenarios.  

OBJECTIVES:

1.        Identify key clinical features and differential diagnoses of inflammatory arthritis.

2.        Describe evidence-based physical therapy interventions used across disease stages in inflammatory arthritis.

3.        Develop clinical strategies for exercise and rehabilitation participation in individuals with inflammatory arthritis.

4.        Apply clinical reasoning to case studies representing typical inflammatory arthritis presentations in outpatient physical therapy.

Marissa Muccio, PT graduated from Rutgers in 98' with a degree in Physical Therapy. She has worked a variety of pediatric settings including: NICU, neuromuscular, cranial facial , pediatric oncology, pediatric in-patient, out-patient, Aquatics, EIP , NDT certification in pediatrics, private practice owner since 2000. The practice continues to be a clinical education site for DPT student affiliations for Rutgers University.

     In 2009 she became one of the first PSSE/Schroth certified therapists in the US. She now co-owns one of the leading Scoliosis Centers in the US and is committed to expanding the research for scoliosis specific exercises. 

Memberships past and present include: APTA, APTANJ, APTASC, NDTA, SOSORT and SRS. 

Medical Advisor/expert for several non-profits focused on patients with scoliosis.

2016 Rutgers SHRP DPT Alumni of the Year

2018 James Tucker Excellence in Clinical Practice and Teaching Award

2019-2022 Patient Education Committee member of the Scoliosis Research Society

2022-2024 Professional Education Committee member of the Scoliosis Research Society

2024-current Comprehensive Care Committee member of the Scoliosis Research Society

2024-current NIH Grant Advisory Board for Scoliosis Specific Exercise Rehabilitation

DESCRIPTION:

Scoliosis is a complex spinal condition characterized by an atypical spine curvature. It impacts millions of people, crosses all ages, and will be encountered in all physical therapy practice settings. This section provides an overview of scoliosis, the different types, their prevalences, and the underlying etiologies.  We explore the risks associated with the progression of idiopathic and degenerative scoliosis and review comprehensive scoliosis screening procedures, including a practical lab opportunity for PTs and PTAs who are NOT PSSE/Schroth certified.

OBJECTIVES:

1.        Develop an understanding of the different types of scoliosis, their prevalences, and current theories of etiology, with emphasis on recognizing how these factors affect physical therapy interventions across various age groups and practice settings.

2.        Identify the key factors that contribute to the progression of scoliosis, including biomechanical, neurological, and environmental influences, and discuss how these factors can impact treatment planning for non-Schroth certified PTs/PTAs.

3.         Understand and describe evidence-based tests and measures for scoliosis screening, and how to apply these methods effectively in diverse physical therapy settings, from pediatrics to geriatrics.

4.        Apply scoliosis screening tests and measures in clinical practice, recognizing signs and symptoms of scoliosis in different age groups, and adjusting screening approaches based on setting.

5.        Evaluate the outcomes of scoliosis screenings and provide appropriate recommendations, including when to refer for further specialized care or initiate physical therapy interventions, considering the range of practice for non-Schroth certified PTs/PTAs.

Matt Jeffs, DPT

Institution: TuMeke Ergonomics / abilityondemand.com

Asheville, North Carolina  

Speaking Experience: Matt Jeffs, DPT, is an internationally sought-after speaker, delivering lectures at global conferences, professional associations, and executive summits. He has served as a recurring guest lecturer at High Point University and Western Carolina University, addressing neuroscience, ergonomics, and workplace safety. Dr. Jeffs has presented for the European Commission and led workshops for North Carolina’s MAHEC and Summit Professional Education.

Short Bio: With over 30 years as an educator, ergonomist, and clinician, Dr. Matt Jeffs has rehabilitated over 25,000 individuals and consulted for industry giants like Georgia-Pacific and PepsiCo. As Education Director at TuMeke Ergonomics, he pioneers AI-enhanced ergonomic solutions. His extensive experience, backed by 12,000+ hours of onsite industrial work and publications like Mindful Ergonomics, positions him as a leading expert in DPT-led workplace injury prevention, addressing slips, trips, falls, cognitive distraction, and musculoskeletal health.

DESCRIPTION:

Workplace injuries, costing U.S. businesses $160 billion annually, demand innovative solutions. Slips, trips, and falls account for 25% of injuries, while musculoskeletal disorders and cognitive distractions challenge modern workplaces. This session explores the Doctor of Physical Therapy’s (DPT) pivotal role in addressing these issues through evidence-based strategies. Using U.S. Department of Labor BLS data, National Safety Council insights, and OSHA guidelines, attendees will learn how DPTs can implement targeted interventions—fall prevention programs, ergonomic assessments, cognitive training, and environmental acclimation protocols—to enhance worker safety and productivity. This interactive presentation will engage attendees with case studies and practical applications, empowering DPTs to lead workplace wellness initiatives in the 21st century. Join us to discover how DPTs can transform workplace safety and reduce injury risks.

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session, participants will be able to:  

Identify key workplace injury trends using U.S. DOL BLS data and National Safety Council reports to prioritize DPT interventions.  

Design a fall prevention program incorporating OSHA guidelines to reduce slips, trips, and falls in diverse workplace settings.  

Apply ergonomic assessment techniques to address musculoskeletal disorders and enhance worker preparedness.  

Develop cognitive distraction training protocols to improve employee focus and safety in high-demand environments.  

Implement environmental acclimation strategies to mitigate workplace stressors and promote long-term employee well-being.

John Rintamaa, PT, PhD, MBA  is an innovative leader who has served in healthcare for 32 years as a leader in multiple healthcare organizations in the South and the Midwest United States. His accomplishments include teaching and mentoring aspiring leaders, improving healthcare efficiency and profitability, launching healthcare start-ups, and finding effective methods to support patients and frontline care providers. He has achieved multiple awards for leadership and innovation in healthcare.

In his most recent roles as AVP in an academic health system and President of a healthcare consulting company, he established multiple startup companies in the healthcare industry, developed and implemented new departments, and established process improvement programs that impacted net revenue and quality patient care. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Cleveland State University.  He also holds a PhD degree from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions.  When not working, he can be found writing, leading the local Boy Scout troop on a camping trip, or traveling with his wife and their two boys.

DESCRIPTION:

People spend a substantial portion of their time at work, and work can be a significant part of a person’s identity, offering insights into what is important to people. However, finding fulfillment or meaning in work can be elusive and is a complex and multidimensional construct. The meaning of work focuses on what an occupation can contribute to a person’s life as a whole. It is often based on a person’s values and, in an occupational sense, derived from the importance placed on participation in a particular occupation. Drawing on original research, we will examine how values, identity, and occupational engagement shape the perceived meaning of work and how these perceptions relate to the return on investment of a DPT degree. This session offers a timely and thought-provoking look at the heart of why we work—and what keeps us going.

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session, participants will be able to:

Define the concept of "meaning of work" within the context of occupational identity and personal values.

Analyze the multidimensional factors that contribute to meaningful work for physical therapists.

Evaluate the relationship between perceived work meaning and the return on investment (ROI) of obtaining a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree.

Compare intrinsic and extrinsic drivers of meaningful work as reported by physical therapists in recent research.

Design strategies to enhance the experience of meaningful work in clinical and educational settings.

Stacey Head PT, CLT, ATC has been a Board-Certified Women’s Health Specialist for over 20 years, working for Duke Health for the last 10 years. She works in their Apex and Cary, North Carolina locations. She has spoken at both the national and state levels on topics related to women’s health, pelvic health and the female athlete. She enjoys working with patients across the lifespan from young adult and on. She has done her own continuing education in the area of menopause and is working on a perimenopause/menopause health coaching certification to help her patients better.

Jocelyn Wittstein, MD is a board certified orthopaedic surgeon with a certificate of added qualification and fellowship training in sports medicine.  She is associate professor of orthopaedic surgery at Duke Universoty School of Medicine. She is part of the core leadership of the Duke Female Athlete Program and a collaborator with Duke Women’s Health on research related to the intersection of women's health and musculoskeletal health including ACL injury risk, adhesive capsulitis, menopause arthritis, and the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause.  She is a co recipient of the Forum Women in Sports Medicine Grant and the Hammond Fund Grant from Duke Women’s Health to establish the Musculoskeletal Symptoms of Menopause Registry.  She is a co author of “The musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause” published in 2024.

DESCRIPTION:

Over 1 billion women will go through menopause this year which means as a physical therapist you will likely be treating this population regardless of your area of expertise. Recent research shows that these changes significantly impact the musculoskeletal system which is our area of expertise. This course will help you understand these changes better and then take those menopausal considerations into your PT practice to optimize care.

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session participants will be able to:

        Understand the hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause

        Understand how those changes impact the musculoskeletal system

        Apply implications to their case load for menopausal musculoskeletal changes

Karen Woodrow, PT, DPT, EdD is currently an acute care physical therapist and the former DCE and current adjunct faculty member at Wingate University’s DPT program in Wingate, NC. She received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Quinnipiac University and her Doctor of Education in Innovation and Leadership from St. Thomas University. Karen’s clinical interests primarily emphasize promoting early mobility in the intensive care unit as well as managing complex patients in the cardiothoracic surgical ICU. She serves as an adjunct faculty member for multiple DPT courses including acute care, geriatrics, clinical integration, and cardiopulmonary. Her research interests include process improvement in the acute care setting and physical therapy clinical education in the acute care setting from the student, academic, and facility perspectives. 

Jaclyn Polk, PT, DPT, DHSc, Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy, is an assistant professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Wingate University. Jaclyn received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Delaware and Doctor of Health Sciences degree in Education and Academia from Radford University. Jaclyn’s research interests are in the areas of clinical education, wellness, management of student stress, running gait, and pelvic floor rehabilitation. Jaclyn actively promotes the profession of Physical Therapy through involvement with APTA NC, volunteering at various community events, and offering pro bono clinical services in orthopedics and pelvic floor rehabilitation. Jaclyn has presented on various topics for APTA NC online webinars and at the Annual Conferences. 

Debbie Prouty, MPT, EdD,  Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy is an associate professor at Wingate University's DPT program in Wingate, NC. She teaches course content in physical therapy for older adults, clinical practice in the acute care setting, pharmacology, and interprofessional education.  Debbie's current physical therapy clinical practice in the acute and ICU settings provides real-world application in her courses to develop students' clinical skills. Research includes investigating the use of interprofessional education for preparing DPT students for clinical practice, especially in the acute care setting. She is also involved with geriatric physical therapy research that examines the link between changes in gait variability and predicting early dementia. 

Sarah Shaw, SPT is currently pursuing her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Wingate University, where she is a proud member of the Class of 2025. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from Campbell University, where she developed a strong foundation in rehabilitation sciences. Sarah is passionate about acute care physical therapy and is dedicated to serving underserved and rural communities. Her interest in acute care was solidified during a rewarding clinical rotation in an acute care setting, where she had the opportunity to work closely with patients during critical moments of their recovery. That experience deepened her commitment to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to those in need.

DESCRIPTION:

The preservation and ongoing development of critical care clinical rotations for DPT and PTA students is key to ensuring that these opportunities remain sustainable and available. Critical care settings can be utilized to promote the long term success of student physical therapists and physical therapist assistants by introducing key behaviors. The purpose of this educational session is to use academic acute care faculty, DCEs and clinical instructors, and a current 3rd year DPT student to discuss applicable strategies and teachings that can be utilized to bridge the gap between DPT/PTA program, facility, and student needs. Acute care faculty will learn how to use tools such as interprofessional education, integrated clinical experiences, and simulation to properly prepare students. In addition, clinical instructors and students will learn specific strategies that use this unique relationship to make the critical care setting less intimidating and instead one for successful learning. 

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session participants will be able to:

Describe the unique benefits of a critical care clinical rotation to the development of entry-level physical therapists and physical therapist assistants 

Explain the role of all major stakeholders involved in establishing and completing a DPT/PTA student critical care clinical rotation

Incorporate the beneficial elements of patient simulation, interprofessional education, and integrated clinical experiences into the academic preparation of DPT/PTA students with a critical care clinical rotation

Use at least three effective strategies for a feasible progression of DPT/PTA student skills to achieve appropriate goals and competencies in the critical care setting

Establish at least three successful clinical instructor and student behaviors that address potentially challenging areas in the critical care setting

Apply the role of the DCE in selecting and supporting DPT/PTA students through a critical care clinical rotation

Barbara Ann Biglari

Barbara’s love of neuroscience began in 2017 when she took care of someone close to her who endured a brain injury. Throughout their recovery, she devoted her time to learning about memory, recovery, and various therapeutic interventions. After a year of caregiving, their paths diverged. Since then, she became a physical therapy technician at East Carolina University Health. It was there where her knowledge grew and a need to reach out to caregivers became evident. 

Barbara founded two caregiver support groups- one at East Carolina University Health and the other at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist – High Point Medical Center, authored a published research study, presented at national meetings and grand rounds on behalf of caregivers, and relaunched her education to pursue Neuroscience. Now she is part of a phenomenal research team in Gerontology as a Clinical Studies Coordinator II and continues to work as a physical therapy technician. Her journey has been far from easy, nevertheless, she looks forward to the path ahead and the difference she makes along the way.

Jerri Raquel-Morehead Shepard, PT, DPT, LMBT, MBA, MEd, CDP, Geriatric Clinical Specialist

Jerri serves as Acute Rehabilitation Services Manager at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist – High Point Medical Center. She has 20 years of experience, specializing in acute care. Passionate about teaching, Jerri also serves as adjunct professor at Winston-Salem State University and teaching assistant/instructor at High Point University for their DPT programs. 

Jerri holds a BA in Communication Studies and Therapeutic Recreation (UNC-Wilmington), certificate in Massage and Bodywork Therapy (Florida College of Natural Health), Masters degrees in PT (UNC-Chapel Hill), Adult Education (NC State University), and Business Administration - Healthcare Management Concentration (Fayetteville State University). She also earned her transitional DPT (Winston-Salem State University). Jerri has continued training/certifications in clinical instruction (Level II), geriatric physical therapy, dementia care, and diversity, equity and inclusion. 

A firm believer in patient and family-centered care, Jerri ensures that patient care also addresses the needs of family/caregivers.  She incorporates this belief throughout her delivery of care and teaching.  Additionally, she serves as High Point’s Stroke Support Group Coordinator and has been heavily involved with this group since its inception in 2007.

DESCRIPTION:

Patient care doesn’t stop with the patient; it starts with the patient!  Physical Therapy professionals and students understand the depths of caring for someone, however, their extension only goes so far.  Caregivers play a vital role in the outcomes of patients we see each day.  While burnout is prevalent among healthcare professionals and students, the prevalence of burnout among caregivers must also be recognized.  No one can pour from an empty cup.  In this interactive session, participants will discuss aspects of caregiving, caregiver burnout, why it matters, and how they can be part of the solution to an omnipresent epidemic.  From current literature reviews to the voice of the customer via authentic first-hand caregiver perspectives, participants will walk away feeling empowered with knowledge and being equipped to make a positive difference in caregiver burnout.  

OBJECTIVES:

1.        Define the role of the caregiver 

2.        Understand the diversity and varying complexities of caregiving

3.        Illustrate burnout as it relates to the caregiver

4.        Recognize the adversity and severity of side effects of caregiver burnout

5.        Learn from the voice of the customer (direct caregiver perspective)

6.        Identify how caregivers can manage the demands of caregiving

7.        Identify the role of physical therapy professionals and students in addressing caregiver burnout

8.        Locate available resources to support caregivers

Lori Leineke, PT, DPT, EdD, is an Associate Professor at Campbell University.  She is Board Certified in Orthopedic Physical Therapy and completed the APTA/Emory University Vestibular Certification Course in 2010.  She teaches entry-level DPT courses in clinical anatomy, interventions, musculoskeletal rehab, and vestibular and concussion.  She is a trainer for the Level 1 Clinical Instructor Credentialing Program and been in higher education for over a decade.

Rob Precht, PT, DPT is a senior staff physical therapist at Duke Raleigh Hospital. He is Board Certified in Geriatric Physical Therapy and completed the APTA/Emory University Vestibular Certification Course in 2024. He has assisted with teaching entry-level DPT courses in wound care, emergency department physical therapy, and vestibular rehabilitation. He has treated patients with vestibular impairments in the emergency room, home health, and currently in the acute care setting.

DESCRIPTION:

Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) is one of the most common causes of chronic dizziness, yet it remains underdiagnosed and often mismanaged in rehabilitation settings. Patients with PPPD experience persistent dizziness and unsteadiness that are exacerbated by motion, visual stimuli, and upright posture, significantly impacting their daily function and quality of life. This session will equip physical therapists with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize PPPD, differentiate it from other vestibular disorders, and implement evidence-based interventions. Through case-based discussions and interactive problem-solving, attendees will explore the complex interplay between vestibular, visual, and psychological factors contributing to PPPD. Participants will leave with practical strategies to enhance patient outcomes using vestibular rehabilitation, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and graded exposure techniques. Whether you are new to vestibular rehab or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide essential tools to improve the care of patients with chronic dizziness.

OBJECTIVES:

1.        Identify key clinical features of Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD) and differentiate it from other vestibular and neurological conditions.

2.        Explain the underlying mechanisms contributing to PPPD, including the interaction of vestibular, visual, and psychological factors.

3.        Apply evidence-based assessment techniques to accurately diagnose and classify PPPD in clinical practice.

4.        Develop effective treatment strategies incorporating vestibular rehabilitation, cognitive-behavioral approaches, and graded exposure to improve patient outcomes.

C. Benjamin Jones PT, DPT, OCS, ATC, CSCS

Dr. Jones is an Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy at Methodist University. He primarily teaches the musculoskeletal course work, clinical reasoning, and portions of the programs comprehensive examination course in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Dr. Jones has worked as an Athletic Trainer since 2005 with multiple populations including outpatient orthopaedics, and with high school, college, and professional athletics. He has also worked as a licensed physical therapist in multiple settings since 2010 including outpatient physical therapy, aquatic therapy, home health care, and sports medicine. Dr. Jones is an American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) Board-Certified Specialist in Orthopaedics. Dr. Jones is originally from South Carolina and received his Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, Bachelor of Science in Physical Education with a concentration in Exercise Science, and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the College of Charleston. He received his DPT degree from A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Health Sciences.

DESCRIPTION:

Are you a PT student that wants to feel more confident about test taking and reduce the anxiety that often comes with it? Are you looking to improve your performance and boost your odds of success on exams? If so, this educational session is designed for you. Whether you're preparing for PT program exams or the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), this session will provide practical, evidence-based strategies to help you succeed.  This course will cover essential test-taking techniques, including how to manage time effectively, reduce distractions, and approach questions strategically. You will learn methods for ruling out incorrect answers, understanding how exam questions are constructed, and improving your clinical reasoning skills under pressure. The session will also explore common test-taking mistakes, anxiety triggers, and how to overcome them. Through test-question breakdowns and guided practice, you will gain tools to approach exams with greater confidence and clarity.

OBJECTIVES:

1.        Comprehend how age, gender, neuromusculoskeletal development/maturation/degeneration, race, cultural background, and associated medical and psychosocial conditions may impact the examination and evaluation understanding for questions related to a physical therapy patient.

2.        Reflect on a clinical vignette from the patient interview, physical examination, and patient response to answer clinical judgment and reasoning questions based on the patient differentials, objective measures, and findings.

3.        Analize the examination findings, diagnosis, prognosis, plan of care, and re-examination appropriately for examination questions related to these processes.  

4.        Analize and answer examination questions related to physical therapy selection, and interpretation of skills associated with the examination and treatment techniques.

5.        Apply test-taking strategies to reduce anxiety and build confidence during exams.

6.        Utilize test-taking strategies to improve the ability to apply knowledge and effectively eliminate incorrect multiple-choice options. 

C. Vicki Gold, PT, MA, was a New York University graduate (1967!), and is retired after more than 50 years as a practicing physical therapist, educator, and presenter.  She served on several physical therapy faculties and is a former Director of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at LaGuardia Community College in NYC.  Her physical therapy specialties included PNF (trained with Ms. Margaret Knott), NDT (trained with Mrs. Berta Bobath), Osteoporosis (trained with Ms. Sara Meeks), and geriatric rehabilitation.

Ms. Gold’s background is rich in the area of mind-body well-being, and holistic health.  She is the creator of The ABC Mind-Body System: Alignment, Breathing, and Centering, which integrates knowledge and skills from her practices of yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, Alexander and Feldenkrais techniques.  Tips, tricks and strategies for improved mental and physical well-being also come from her years of participation with Landmark Worldwide, and other programs for personal growth and development. 

Ms Gold is the author of recently published “Aging Safely, Wisely, and Well – A Movement and Mindset Guide for Older Adults”  (https://thera-fitness.com/the-book/).

Alexander Japit, PT, DPT, has a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Queens’ University in Charlotte, NC. He recently completed his Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree from Elon University, and currently works with Roper Physical  Therapy in Charlotte.

Mr. Japit is a long-time practitioner of traditional Chinese martial arts and Yoga.  He has trained as a myofascial therapist, has a strong interest in integrative healthcare, and is passionate about safe, non-pharmaceutical approaches to promoting health and wellness.  

Alex ongoingly participates in trainings that promote the integration of a bio-psycho-social approach to pain-management and whole-body movement, including psychologically informed physical therapy using Lifestyle Medicine’s approaches of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and the PRISM (Pain Recovery and Integrative Systems Model) model, which he studied through the Integrative Pain Science Institute under the renown Joe Tatta, DPT.  

Also: Alex has participated in a clinical communication cohort program "Communic8" with Nick Hannah, "Reconciling Biomechanics with Pain Science" under Greg Lehman, and as a member of Cohort 7 of Aaron Kubal's "Pain and Rehab Mentorship Program"

DESCRIPTION: 

Research has shown that many physical therapists and physical therapist assistants experience degrees of pain, stress, and burnout.  Science also shows that pain and stress, in general, have negative effects on mental and physical function.  

This mini-workshop presents  a selection of mind-body and biopsychosocial approaches for assessing and managing these challenges, as they occur in therapists and patients alike.  Participants  will have the opportunity to observe and practice several strategies and techniques for managing their own pain, stress and well-being. 

The presenters believe that in order to provide optimum therapeutic services to their patients, therapists benefit from mastering pain and stress-management skills for themselves.  Therefore, interactive and experiential learning techniques are a major focus of this course.  We encourage attendees to join us in de-stressing, even as they learn!

OBJECTIVES:

1.        Participants will be able to identify at least three benefits of a mind-body approach to mental and physical well-being.

2.        Participants will be able to identify at least three mind-body approaches for managing their well-being.

3.        Participants will be able to identify the five components of The ABC Mind-Body System.

4.        Participants will be able to identify and demonstrate the use of imagery for improved physical function.

5.        Participants will be able to define the biopsychosocial approach to pain management.

Alison Starkey, PT, MBA/MHA trained at Kings College London, graduated in 1988, and shortly thereafter moved to Canada where she worked for 2 years. She was recruited to Massachusetts General Hospital where she worked in acute care and ICU. Alison soon joined Carolinas Healthcare system (Atrium Health) where she worked in a variety of capacities for over 25 years. She successfully completed an MBA and MHA in 2001 and went on to start her own company Gaitway of Charlotte in 2012. Alison built “Gaitway” from the ground up and now runs a highly successful private in-home concierge therapy company serving the greater Charlotte area. Her passion continues to be keeping seniors out of nursing homes and in the community which is where they want to be. 

Alison is also a Certified Dementia Practitioner, a Certified Aging in Place Specialist, and a Certified Fall Prevention Specialist. Alison is a Credentialed Clinical Educator and a Certified Community Educator with the Alzheimer’s Association. Alison is frequently asked to sit on information panels and discussions throughout the Charlotte area. Alison has published several articles in “All About Seniors” magazine in recent years to include “Fall prevention”, “Rehab in the age of Covid” and “Long Covid – what is it and how is it treated.” She lives in South Charlotte with her British husband and 3 busy teenagers.

DESCRIPTION:

As care in the home has become a focus for healthcare systems and the nursing home industry continues to struggle with staffing and quality, the need for services in the home continues to escalate nationwide. For many families, taking their loved one to a nursing home is not an option and they would much rather keep their loved one at home. How do we support these families and set them up for success?

This course will invite participants to think about how we traditionally take care of patients who are classed as “dependent” with a low probability of improvement. We introduce concepts and solutions for dependent individuals that give them a choice to remain at home and avoid a nursing home or long-term care placement. 

The material in this course will orient participants to the options for dependent patients, ensuring that even though these patients have not responded to traditional rehabilitation environments, they should be afforded specialty care to ensure comfort, safety, and dignity as they live their lives by achieving community re-entry, being part of a family and community, and even being employed.

These strategies have been used extensively in the Spinal Cord Injury population – shouldn’t every dependent client be given the same opportunities?

Attendees will learn that whether a solution is covered by insurance or not, it’s crucial to educate patients and their primary caregivers on what is available and how to access the right equipment and services. 

OBJECTIVES:

a.        Participants will demonstrate an understanding of the principles of Aging in Place, Universal Design and ADA regulations.

b.        Participants will demonstrate and understand how the role rehabilitation professionals impacts decision making for patients and their families as well as how those decisions evolve over a lifetime.

c.        Participants will identify 3 solutions for dependent patients on how to reduce the burden of care on caregivers.

d.        Participants will identify 3 solutions for community access for dependent patients.

Tyler Johnston, PT, DPT, EdD - Board Certified Orthopedic Physical Therapist

Tyler has been practicing PT for the past 10 years after getting his DPT from East Carolina University. He has worked exclusively in OP orthopedics and has specialized in treating individuals suffering with chronic neck and low back pain. He obtained his Orthopedic Certified Specialist certification from the APTA (2022) and graduated with his Doctorate of Education in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (2024). He is an Assistant professor at Winston-Salem State University in their physical therapy program. His research focuses on the relationship developed between the patient and therapist and how therapists use this therapeutic relationship in clinical practice. His research is meant to provide education for working clinicians to help them improve their clinical practice with simple and practical information.

DESCRIPTION:

Physical therapy is a patient facing healthcare profession and much of our success relies on interacting with our patients. To be a successful therapist, one must be able to interact with their patients addressing their wants and needs while implementing the best evidence based treatments. Although emphasis is frequently placed on what we do TO patients, what we do WITH patients should be seen as just as important. The presentation focuses on how therapists can interact with their patients to improve patients compliance with therapy. The concept of patient-centered care, patients' educational and physical needs for certain ailments, ways to build a therapeutic relationship, and verbal and non-verbal communication styles will be discussed. Those who attend this presentation will leave with simple and practical ways to improve the care they provide to their patients. 

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session, participants will be able to: 

explain current evidence about patient needs and wants from physical therapy for musculoskeletal conditions

compare how they build a connection with their patients versus what patients want during physical therapy

discuss barriers that limit therapists ability to build connections with their patients in clinical practice

apply simple tactics to better connect with their patients in clinical practice to improve their physical therapy care

Darlene K. Sekerak, PT, PhD, FAPTA is Professor Emeritus and past Director, Division of Physical Therapy and Associate Chair for Clinical Services at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She currently resides in Grassy Creek, NC. She practiced as a clinical physical therapist for eleven years in multiple settings, and over forty years in teaching, and directing graduate studies, and in education and clinical administration. She currently is an adjunct professor at UNC-Chapel Hill teaching courses in leadership, professional issues and advocacy.

Dr. Sekerak is currently the Western North Carolina Outreach Director for Dying Right NC, a nonprofit advocacy group for expansion of, and respect for, end-of-life options. Her passion for end-of-life options including medical aid in dying has evolved from her experience as a healthcare provider treating individuals in the final months of life, as a daughter who has experienced the steady and unforgiving decline of a parent before death, and as a woman who would personally value the right and respect to be able to make the most final and personal choices.  

Jane F. DeLoach, PT, DPT,  has been a physical therapist for over 50 years, practicing clinically for over 40 years primarily in the area of geriatrics and in home health and geriatrics for UNC REX Healthcare for the past 30 years. She currently resides in Raleigh, NC.

Dr. DeLoach was an Instructor in the Department of Physical Therapy at UNC-CH for approximately 10 years teaching Advanced Patient Management for the geriatric patient and is currently an Instructor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA teaching the geriatric component of Lifespan Development including end-of-life transition.

Dr. DeLoach has cared for innumerable patients, families, and caregivers facing death. She had personal experience with the death of her father at home when there was no hospice or palliative care available, and the death of her mother in an inpatient hospice facility. Recently, Dr DeLoach had personal experience with the pathway Death With Dignity as a long- time friend chose this for her own peace of mind, comfort, dignity and autonomy.  

DESCRIPTION:

When patients are ready to talk about dying, are we ready to listen? To provide truly compassionate care, physical therapists must be prepared for authentic and empathetic conversations about end-of-life options. The program will explore the nuances and options associated with hospice care, palliative care, and medical aid in dying. 

With the aging of the “baby boomers”, there have been more inquiries related to dying well, dying with dignity, and dying with medical aid. The findings of a self-report on-line survey of US adults by Kozlov and colleagues in 2024 suggest there is a need for public education, policy initiatives, and patient-clinician discussions to ensure equitable access to patient-centered end-of-life options and informed decision-making. 

OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this educational session participants will be able to:

1)Comfortably, confidently, and compassionately field questions from caregivers and from patients regarding the “next steps” in the continuum of life and the services available with Hospice, Palliative Care, or Medical Aid in Dying;

2) Dispel misinformation regarding end-of-life options common among patients, families, and other health care providers;

3) Participate in patient or family-initiated conversations regarding end-of-life options objectively and with respect for the patient’s personal ethical, moral, and religious beliefs; 

4) Share current information with patients regarding legal end-of-life options available to patients in North Carolina or other states and jurisdictions without residency requirements;

5) Make appropriate referrals without judgement for patients requesting information or services in anticipation of the end of life.