4D: Deep Dive into Degenerative Diseases – CSM 2026 Preview

Podcast: 4D: Deep Dive into Degenerative Diseases – ANPT
Host: Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy
Episode: DD SIG: Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) 2026 Preview
Date: February 9, 2026
Panel: Ken Vanacco (A), Sarah Zoller (B), Madison Catalano (C)

Overview

This special episode previews the neurodegenerative-disease-focused programming at the APTA Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) 2026 in Anaheim, CA. Ken, Sarah, and Madison break down key sessions, share their “March Madness”-inspired picks, and offer practical tips for maximizing both clinical learning and networking at CSM. The episode celebrates both innovative and staple content, highlights community and collaboration, and reflects the fun, informal camaraderie of the DDSIG.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

Introduction and Podcast Approach

• The episode is built around a fun “basketball bracket”/March Madness theme to categorize top picks for conference programming.
• Rather than listing events chronologically, the team uses categories like “Hometown Heroes,” “Seasoned Teams,” “Halftime Shows,” “Sleepers,” and “Heart Picks” (02:28).

Hometown Heroes – Local Favorites from the DDSIG Community

(03:33–07:34)

Ken’s Pick:

• Session: The Role of Physical Therapists in Multidisciplinary Management of Individuals with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)
• Speaker: Christina Vaughn
• Quote:

  “This is maybe more new content for this year at CSM that isn’t part of your regular programming…very excited for this and a hometown hero because we, we know her here on the pod.” (04:22)

Madison’s Pick:

• Session: Maximal or Submaximal Exercise Testing: Finding the Right Fit for HIIT Prescription in Neurological Rehab
• Speaker: Dr. Anjali Sivarama Krishnan, et al. (DD SIG board member)
• Notes: Applies to PD, MS, Stroke; addresses the clinical challenge of prescribing the right intensity.
• Quote:

  “We’re always looking to prescribe that right intensity as a principle of neuroplasticity.” (05:05)

Sarah’s Pick:

• Session: Two Flints to Make a Fire: Evidence-Based Utility of Integrating Cognition into Physical Therapy Practice
• Speakers: Nora Fritz, Patty Monahan, et al. (Frequent podcast guests/alumni)
• Notes: Focuses on practical strategies for cognition and dual tasking in neuro PT.
• Quote:

  “Maybe some practical strategies you can use in the clinic…but how to incorporate considerations around cognition and also likely dual tasking into practice.” (06:37)

Seasoned Teams – Conference Staples and High-Value Evidence

(07:34–11:48)

Madison’s Pick:

• Session: Enhancing Neurodegenerative Disease Care with Digital Health Tools: Evidence and Implementation Strategies
• Speakers: Dr. Burke, Dr. Quinn, Dr. Fritz, Dr. Hooman
• Notes: Focus on ALS, MS, Huntington’s; digital health for adherence, care, outcomes.
• Quote:

  “Another one that we can take some clinical nuggets and apply it right into clinical practice.” (08:07)

Sarah’s Pick:

• Session: Balance Rehabilitation and Falls Prevention in Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease: A Clinical Practice Guideline
• Notes: Long-awaited guideline update; “sneak preview” of future best practices.
• Quote:

  “Really high level of evidence that we can start to think about applying into our practice.” (09:30)

Ken’s Pick:

• Session: Proactive PT: A Paradigm Shift to Empower Movement and Knowledge Early in Complex Chronic Diseases
• Speakers: Miriam Rafferty, Monica Hendrickson, Lori Quinn, Dominique Kennett Hopkins
• Notes: Emphasizes early education/intervention in complex, rare diseases.
• Quote:

  “Early education becomes such a large piece in helping this population.” (11:17)

Halftime Show – Nontraditional & Networking Events

(12:24–18:38)

Sarah’s Pick:

• Session: DDSIG Platforms (Rapid-fire research presentations)
• Quote:

  “You get a lot of variety in a short period of time...hear about things that are brand new and emerging.” (12:55)

Ken’s Pick:

• Event: Myelin Melter Social (Friday 5:30–7:00 PM)
• Details: DD SIG networking event, giveaways, community-building.
• Quote:

  “A fun event...may you see some old friends. There’s...a lot of good giveaways...look out for what the DD SIG has to offer at their table.” (15:13)

Madison’s Pick:

• Event: Saturday Poster Session (12:00–2:00 PM, with DDSIG posters)

• Quote:

  "Learning about it now, [platform sessions] seem like a nice way to kind of break up the hour and a half lectures...trying to sneak in a platform!” (13:53)

• Posters Networking Advice:

  “You don’t have to read every single title...Also talk to the poster presenters. It does not matter if you are a first year PT student or like the most seasoned researcher, part of the posters is the networking and the discussion.” (17:28 – Sarah)

Third Quarter – Sleepers and Heart Picks

(18:38–25:33)

Sleepers – Surprising Picks from Outside Neuro

Ken:

• Session: Evidence-Based Algorithms and Perspectives for Choosing and Using Ankle Foot Orthoses
• Speakers: Bethany Russell, David Lawrence (Geriatric section)
• Reason: Looking to update/refresh AFO decision-making for diverse neurodegenerative populations. (19:26)

Sarah:

• Session: From GBS to CIDP: The ABCs of Demyelinating Neuropathies (Acute Care SIG)
• Reason: Personal connection to CIDP, curiosity about updated rehab recommendations. (20:37)

Heart Picks – Sessions that Spark Joy

Madison:

• Session: Optimization of Health Promotion and Wellness for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
• Notes: Holistic focus—sleep, nutrition, activity, emotional well-being, smoking cessation—on integration, not isolation.
• Quote:

  “Really curious to see how I can use this to maximize care for patients I see with MS.” (21:54)

Ken:

• Session: Stimulating the Discussion: Physical Therapy After Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson Disease
• Speakers: Anjali Sivarama Krishnan, Pooja Liar, Christopher Hurt
• Reason: Direct clinical relevance; looking to optimize follow-up and interventions for his own DBS clinic patients.
• Quote:

  “Are we seeing these people as we should be after they get DBS...possible intervention with physical therapy that we’re missing after...” (23:10)

Sarah:

• Session: When the Beat Drops: Strategies for Addressing Autonomic Dysfunction and Exercise in PD
• Speakers: Aaron Sutman, Lenny Swenson
• Reason: Common but under-discussed challenge in PD care; excited for actionable approaches.
• Quote:

  “This is like an everyday challenge for me, and I’m really excited that it has its own place here in its own topic.” (24:50)

The "Ace" – Unanimous Top Pick

(25:33–28:10)

• Session: Ann Shumway Cook Lecture – Movement Through Time: The Evolution of Treatment for People with Parkinson Disease
• Speaker: Terry Ellis
• Reason: Honors both Dr. Ellis (the podcast’s inaugural guest) and the remarkable impact of Shumway Cook Lectures; expected to be inspirational and clinically relevant.
• Quotes:

  “It’s just that level of passion that she shares for helping these individuals and the advances that…she brings forth. It’s so interesting and engaging.” (26:15 – Ken)
  “The lectures are always really inspirational…a ‘sit back and enjoy the ride’ thing, which I think we could all use a little bit more of.” (27:09 – Sarah)

Tips for CSM First-Timers and Self-Care

(28:20–29:58)

• Arrive with a plan.: “Going in with a little bit of a plan helps to narrow things down a little bit and set your agenda because there are so many things to see...” (28:20 – Ken)
• Recharge during the day: “Just go for walk around outside. Just see the sun, you need it.” (29:05 – Sarah)
• Explore beyond the conference: Appreciate Anaheim, find local eats, maybe even fit in a Disneyland visit. (29:27 – Ken)

Notable and Memorable Quotes

• “We love going to talks from previous guests or from members of our DD SIG, either alumni or current board.” (02:28 – Sarah)
• “I feel like that’s really valuable and you know, needless to say, really high level of evidence that we can start to think about applying into our practice.” (09:30 – Sarah)
• “This is just such a…fun event…I think a networking type of opportunity for folks where you get to catch up with other people who are neurologic physical therapists.” (15:13 – Ken)
• “Be collaborative and that’s like another good opportunity to just network and have some really good discussions.” (17:28 – Sarah)

Conclusion

The DDSIG podcast team delivers an energetic, practical preview of CSM 2026, championing the value of connecting with peers, bringing new ideas home, and integrating evidence into everyday practice. Their basketball-themed breakdown keeps the tone upbeat and accessible, while the strong through-line is clear: whether you’re a student, clinician, or seasoned researcher, this year’s CSM offers opportunities to learn, network, and be inspired.

For more info on the DD SIG or the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy, visit www.neuropt.org.