Simply Robust

Ep 17: When The Case Turns: Critical Thinking in PT

In this episode of Simply Robust, the Elevate PT team reflects on the pivotal moments that reshaped how they think as clinicians. From a misjudged shoulder that goes sour, to chronic pain that ended in behavior change and redemption, to suspected cardiac dysfunction—each story reveals the power of humility, curiosity, and measured observation in patient care. Join us as we for practical thoughts on the art of pausing, re-evaluating, and staying relentlessly curious when the plan isn’t working. This is an honest look at clinical growth, the mistakes that shape us, and why critical thinking is the most valuable skill a PT can build.

Ep 16: Updates and Insights

This week we share what’s new at Elevate PT—continuing ed courses, patient video resources, mentorship opportunities, and the launch of 99 Ruck Club. Plus, we reflect on lessons learned in SNFs, mobile PT, and outpatient care. Tune in for fresh ideas, practical takeaways, and our commitment to equipping both clinicians and patients with practical tools.

Ep. 15 The "Non-specific" Diagnostic Label

In this episode of Simply Robust, the Elevate PT teamdives into a recent paper from the Austrailian Journal of Physiotherapy (PMID: 40579311) that explores how diagnostic labels influence patient beliefs, emotions, and treatment decisions. Does calling it “non-specific low back pain” help or hurt? Do patients feel better with a label—even if it’s scary? We try to dispell the tension between clarity and confusion, explore the real-life implications of using jargon, and share insights from our own practice. Whether you're a clinician learning to talk with patients or a patient trying tounderstand your own care, this episode may make you think what you say matters less than why you say it. Papers cited in this episode: "Non-specific diagnostic labels..." (Martin et al. 2025) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphys.2025.06.011PMID: 40579311"A study on relative contributions of the history, physical examination and investigations in making medical diagnosis." (Roshan and Rao. 2000) PMID: 11273467 "Diagnostic Labels for Rotator Cuff Disease Can Increase People's Perceived..." (Zadro et al. 2021) PMID: 33789444

Ep 14: Fear Mongering: Are PTs The Problem?

In this thought-provoking episode of Simply Robust, the Elevate PT crew tackles a heavy but necessary question: Are physical therapists accidentally creating more fear than function? From textbook dogma and underwhelming education to clinical confirmation bias and fear-driven treatment plans, the team dives deep into how PTs—often with good intentions—can contribute to patient fear, underperformance, and even long-term dysfunction. We explore: * How outdated PT education can breed uncertainty and risk aversion * Why new grads may be overconfident or paralyzed by clinical decision-making * The dangerous ripple effect of “playing it safe” in both diagnosis and prescription * Practical strategies to promote patient resilience without overstepping or under-dosing * The critical importance of being confident in what it is not—even if you don’t know exactly what it is If you're a clinician, student, or just passionate about better care, this episode will challenge your thinking and (hopefully) your fear.

Ep. 13: Mailbag #1: What You Should Do, Staying Engaged, and Beating Burnout!

Welcome back to Simply Robust! In this episode, the crew dives into the mailbag to answer your questions— thanks for all the ammo! Whether you're a student, fresh-faced DPT, a seasoned clinician hitting a plateau, or someone considering a pivot, this conversation unpacks the unspoken pressures of early practice. From advice on mentorship, patient volume, and clinical variance, to honest reflections on imposter syndrome, philosophical dissonance, and the cult of productivity—the team covers a lot of real estate. It's not just telling you to “get better”—you need to know what that means, and why it’s okay to not have it all figured out yet. Expect real talk, actionable insights, and a whole lot of hard-earned wisdom. Oh—and permission to take a vacation. Enjoy!