

PT Snacks Podcast: Physical Therapy with Dr. Kasey Hankins
Kasey Hankins, PT, DPT, OCS
You only have X amount of time in a given day. If you are a Physical Therapist or a Student Physical Therapist, you may also find that the time and energy you have left is precious, but the list of concepts you want to review or learn is endless. Build the habit of listening to small, bite-sized pieces of information to help you study, and save you time to live the rest of your life. Kasey Hankins, PT, DPT, OCS will be covering anatomy, arthokinematics, therapeutic exercise, patient education, and so much more. Tune in to learn on a time budget so you can continue to move your practice forward!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 10, 2025 • 7min
134. Is It Just a Migraine? Headache Red Flags
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we delve into the important topic of red flags associated with headaches that physical therapists should be aware of. The episode provides an overview of five critical headache red flags that may indicate serious underlying conditions such as subarachnoid hemorrhage, temporal arteritis, stroke or brain tumor, meningitis, and increased intracranial pressure. 00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks Podcast00:40 Introduction to Headache Red Flags01:49 Thunderclap Headache: A Medical Emergency02:40 Headaches in Patients Over 50: Temporal Arteritis03:23 Neurological Deficits and Headaches04:09 Fever, Neck Stiffness, and Headaches: Meningitis04:53 Positional Headaches and Intracranial Pressure05:48 Conclusion and Additional ResourcesNeed CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...

Jun 3, 2025 • 10min
133. The Silent Load: How Sleep and Stress Impact Healing
Send us Fan MailWelcome to PTs Snacks podcast! I'm your host, Kasey, and in today's episode, we dive into the underrated but crucial topics of sleep and stress management, and their impact on injury risk and recovery. Learn how quality sleep and effective stress management affect every aspect of our health and why they're essential for patients' success. We'll discuss research findings on the relationship between sleep, stress, and athletic performance, the physiological benefits, and practical strategies for physical therapists to help their patients improve sleep hygiene and manage stress effectively. Tune in for actionable insights and resources that will enhance your practice and patient outcomes.00:00 Introduction to PTs Snacks Podcast00:33 The Importance of Sleep and Injury Risk01:46 Research Findings on Sleep and Athletic Performance02:38 Physiological Impact of Sleep on Recovery04:09 Practical Tips for Physical Therapists07:18 Recommended Resources for Further Learning08:54 Conclusion and Additional OffersNeed CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...

May 27, 2025 • 11min
132. Avoiding the Danger Zone: How to Use Chronic Workload Ratios for Smart Load Progression
Send us Fan MailWelcome to PTs Snacks podcast! I'm Kasey, your host, and today we're diving into chronic workload ratios—an essential tool to manage injury risk in athletes. We'll break down the formula, discuss ideal ratio zones, and use examples like running, strength training, and RPE to showcase its application. This episode is perfect for physical therapists and students looking to apply this concept in various settings, from clinics to personal workouts. Tune in to learn how to quantify safe progressions and keep your athletes at their best!00:00 Introduction to PTs Snacks Podcast00:35 Understanding Chronic Workload Ratio02:56 Calculating the Chronic Workload Ratio04:09 Ideal Zones and Examples07:56 Practical Applications for PTs09:13 Additional Resources and ConclusionNeed CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...

May 20, 2025 • 10min
131. 5 Red Flags You Don't Want to Miss in Low Back Pain
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the PT Snacks podcast, we discuss five critical red flags that physical therapists and students must identify in patients presenting with low back pain. These include cauda equina syndrome, metastatic cancer to the spine, spinal infections, vertebral compression fractures, and abdominal aortic aneurysms. We emphasize the importance of recognizing these symptoms early to refer patients to appropriate specialists promptly, potentially saving lives. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:42 Five Red Flags in Low Back Pain01:18 Cauda Equina Syndrome02:46 Cancer and Metastatic Disease04:13 Spinal Infections05:11 Vertebral Compression Fractures06:38 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm07:37 Conclusion and Additional ResourcesNeed CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...

May 13, 2025 • 11min
130. TMJ Dysfunction – Effective Treatments for Your Patients
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of PT Snacks Podcast, we dive into effective treatments for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. The discussion builds on Episode 129, which focused on differentiating the sources of TMJ pain. The episode emphasizes personalized treatment plans based on the patient’s history and response to interventions. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:42 Recap of TMJ Dysfunction02:33 Manual Therapy Techniques for TMJ05:05 Therapeutic Exercises for TMJ07:08 Additional Tips and Patient Advice08:21 Resources and ConclusionNeed CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...

May 6, 2025 • 16min
129. TMJ Dysfunction – A PT Refresher
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of PTs Snacks podcast, we delve into the anatomy and common disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), tailored for physical therapists and students. The episode covers the joint's unique dual-compartment structure, primary supporting muscles, ligaments, innervation, and blood supply. We highlight three common TMJ disorders: myofascial pain, disc displacement, and joint degeneration, explaining their causes, symptoms, and assessment strategies. The episode concludes with tips on conducting objective tests and differential diagnoses to help clinicians accurately identify TMJ issues.00:00 Introduction to PTs Snacks Podcast00:53 Overview of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Anatomy02:58 Common TMJ Disorders05:44 Assessing TMJ Disorders07:36 Objective Tests for TMJ13:32 Differential Diagnoses and Referrals14:44 Conclusion and Next StepsNeed CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...

Apr 29, 2025 • 11min
128. Osteoporosis Medications – What PTs Should Know
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of PT Snacks Podcast, we discuss the significance of understanding osteoporosis medications for physical therapists and PT students. The episode covers the basics of osteoporosis, various medications used in its treatment, and the clinical implications for physical therapy practice. Emphasis is placed on the importance of exercise, fall prevention, and patient education in managing osteoporosis. Additionally, the episode provides guidance on screening for side effects and tailoring exercise programs to individual patient needs.00:00 Introduction to PT Snacks Podcast00:19 Understanding Osteoporosis02:28 Common Osteoporosis Medications05:50 Clinical Implications for Physical Therapists08:08 Patient Education and Medication Adherence09:14 Conclusion and Additional ResourcesNeed CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...

Apr 22, 2025 • 11min
127. Osteoarthritis: Understanding and Managing OA in Physical Therapy
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of PTs Snacks podcast, host Kasey delves into osteoarthritis (OA), clearing up common misconceptions and explaining its impact on physical therapy. Kasey emphasizes the importance of addressing patients' self-limiting beliefs about OA and highlights the necessity of educating them about the true nature of the condition. The episode covers the basics of osteoarthritis, including its degenerative nature, contributing factors, and commonly affected joints. Kasey stresses that OA is not solely about cartilage loss and isn't always progressive, with exercise and physical therapy playing crucial roles in managing symptoms and improving patients' quality of life. The episode also touches on situations where patients may need to be referred for surgical consultations or further medical evaluation. Kasey wraps up by providing resources and recommendations for further learning, including guidelines from OARSI, ACR, and NICE, as well as courses available on MedBridge.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:55 Understanding Osteoarthritis03:30 Common Misconceptions About Osteoarthritis04:13 Physical Therapy for Osteoarthritis05:45 Empowering Patients and Setting Goals07:45 When to Consider Surgical Consults09:15 Conclusion and Additional ResourcesRelevant MedBridge Courses1. Management of Knee Osteoarthritis – Megan Mitchell, PT, DPT 2. Osteoarthritis: Clinical Pathways – Eric Robertson, PT, DPT, PhDNeed CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...

Apr 15, 2025 • 9min
126. Managing Diabetes with Exercise: Key Insights for Physical Therapists
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of PT Snacks podcast, host Kasey discusses the relationship between exercise and diabetes, specifically aimed at physical therapists and students. The episode covers the different types of diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, and gestational), and how exercise influences blood sugar levels. It also highlights the effects of various diabetes medications on exercise and provides practical tips for safely managing patients with diabetes in a physical therapy setting. Additionally, useful resources and courses are recommended for further learning.00:00 Introduction to PT Snacks Podcast00:46 Understanding Diabetes and Exercise01:47 Types of Diabetes and Their Impact on Exercise03:21 Diabetes Medications and Exercise Considerations04:59 Guidelines for Safe Exercise with Diabetes06:04 Red Flags and Patient Communication06:57 Additional Resources and ConclusionRelevant MedBridge Courses1. Exercise and Drug Interactions – Kenneth L. Miller2. Managing Patients with Diabetes – Kathy Shimp, PT, DPTNeed CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...

Apr 8, 2025 • 9min
125. Understanding Hypertension and Cholesterol Medications in PT Clinics
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of PT Snacks podcast, host Kasey explores the importance of understanding common hypertension and cholesterol medications encountered in outpatient orthopedic settings. Kasey discusses the effects of beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and statins on patients' response to exercise. The episode covers potential side effects, red flags, and practical tips for physical therapists, highlighting the significance of a holistic approach to patient care. Additional resources and special offers through MedBridge are also mentioned.00:00 Welcome to PT Snacks Podcast00:56 Importance of Pharmacology in PT02:09 Understanding Blood Pressure Medications04:31 Cholesterol Medications and Their Effects05:34 Red Flags and Patient Management Tips06:51 Additional Resources and ConclusionRelevant MedBridge Courses1. Exercise and Drug Interactions by Kenneth L. Miller - Overview: Understand how various medications interact with exercise. Covers physiology, drug metabolism, and exercise prescription. 2. Pharmacology for Rehabilitation: Considerations for the Aging Adult by Andrew Opett - Overview: Explores the effects of drugs like antihypertensives and statins, especially in older adults.Need CEUs?Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses. Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout to save over $100. Student? Use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENTSupport the showNeed CEUs? Unlock unlimited online courses, live webinars, and certification-prep programs with MedBridge. You’ll get:Thousands of accredited, evidence-based courses across multiple specialties (PT, OT, AT, SLP) that count for state-license CEUs. Access anytime, from your office, phone, or home—perfect for busy clinicians. One annual subscription, no per-course fee. Special offers:Use code PTSNACKSPODCAST at checkout and save over $100.Students use code PTSNACKSPODCASTSTUDENT for a discounted annual plan.Studying for the NPTE? Check out PT Final Exam — they’ve helped thousands of students pass with confidence. Use code PTSnacks at checkout for a discount.Stay Connected!Follow so you never miss an episode. Send your questions via email to ptsnackspodcast@gmail.comJoin the email list ...


