Exploring Varied Career Paths in Physical Therapy with Dr. Tiffany WolfIn this episode of Waves, host Andy Wicks is joined by Dr. Tiffany Wolf, a versatile physical therapist from Denver, Colorado. Dr. Wolf shares her diverse career experiences, including working in correctional facilities, handling challenging cases, and treating a variety of patient populations such as chronic pain and oncology patients. She provides insights on the importance of patient advocacy, the role of a generalist versus a specialist in physical therapy, and offers advice for new graduates and students preparing for clinical rotations. The conversation delves into the nuances of building rapport with patients, adapting to limited resources, and the significance of hands-on experience in the field.00:00 Introduction to Waves Podcast00:46 Meet Dr. Tiffany Wolf01:39 Working in Correctional Facilities02:35 Challenges and Adaptations in Prison Therapy04:11 Building Patient Rapport in Unique Settings08:38 Navigating the Correctional System During COVID10:36 Home Exercise Programs and Patient Compliance11:51 Treating the 'Failed' Patient12:43 Specializing in Chronic Pain and Lymphedema16:48 Diverse Experiences in Physical Therapy17:34 The Role of Generalists in Physical Therapy18:29 Challenges and Rewards of Rural Physical Therapy21:19 Diverse Experiences in Physical Therapy22:28 Preparing Students for Clinical Rotations28:09 Empowering Patients to Advocate for Themselves30:53 Advice for New Graduates in Physical Therapy32:02 Conclusion and Contact Information

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In this episode of Waves, a podcast from APTA Michigan, host Andy Wicks is joined by Dr. Sarah Cruser to delve into the evolving role of primary care and health promotion within the physical therapy (PT) profession. Dr. Cruser shares her diverse practice background, from outpatient orthopedic care to working with older adults and acute care. They discuss the fundamental impact of factors like exercise, diet, sleep, social connections, and stress management on overall health and how PTs can incorporate these elements into their practice, regardless of the setting. The conversation also explores the challenges PTs face in addressing these factors, such as scope of practice and billing concerns, and emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to patient care. Additionally, Dr. Cruser offers insights on the potential future of PT, envisioning a model where PTs function more as consulting and diagnostic clinicians with a strong focus on health promotion.00:00 Introduction to Waves Podcast00:33 Meet Dr. Sarah Cruiser01:32 Health Promotion in Physical Therapy03:36 Barriers and Misconceptions05:24 Trauma-Informed Care09:43 Billing and Scope of Practice11:04 The Role of Nutrition14:53 Primary Care Approach in Physical Therapy18:40 Consulting and Diagnostic Clinicians25:53 Personal Anecdotes and Patient Care28:56 The Art of Patient Interaction29:40 Exploring Health and Wellness Residencies30:34 Challenges in Primary Care and Health Promotion33:35 The Importance of Diet and Lifestyle36:17 Empathy and Understanding in Patient Care42:57 Encouraging Creativity in Clinical Education50:03 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

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In this episode of Waves, Andy interviews Dr. Ryan Wood,co-owner ofForefront Therapy and co-founder of Forefront Community Therapy in Evansville, Indiana. Dr. Wood shares his journey from his academic background to starting his own clinic and nonprofit organization focused on bringingaccessible, quality care to his community. They discuss the challenges and strategies behind running both for-profit and nonprofit clinics, the importance of evidence-based practice and education, and the role of professional involvement in advocacy and policy change. This episode provides insightfulperspectives on maintaining sustainability and impact in the healthcare sector.

00:00 Introduction to Waves Podcast

00:23 Meet Dr. Ryan Wood

01:20 Founding Forefront Therapy

01:50 Core Pillars of Forefront Therapy

03:01 Challenges and Inspirations

03:42 Establishing Forefront Community Therapy

05:22 Navigating Financial and Operational Hurdles

07:21 Balancing Profit and Nonprofit Models

12:02 Grant Writing and Community Support

23:27 Educational Initiatives and Mentorship

27:06 Deliberate Growth and Team Building

29:43 The Sacrifices of Starting a Practice

30:01 Advice for New Graduates

30:14 The Importance of Mentorship

30:42 Nonprofit Challenges and Blessings

31:25 Balancing Family and Business

31:42 The Reality of Financial Risk

37:18 Direct Access and Lobbying Efforts

40:11 Burnout and Avoidance Strategies

42:27 Innovative Nonprofit Models

53:16 The Importance of Political Action Committees

55:29 Conclusion and Contact Information

Forefront Therapy:www.forefronttherapy.org

PTs and PTAs in Michigan! Get PDR credit for license renewalby listening to Waves episodes! Fill out theLARA General Response Form and keep it for your records!