ACL Series: Living with a torn ACL: All About Copers with PT Samantha Kind and ATC Kellie Loehr Artwork

Let's Get Physical (Therapy)

The “Let’s Get Physical (Therapy) Podcast,” hosted by MedStar Health Physical Therapy, is a new educational podcast series designed for rehabilitation professionals, students, new graduates, and those in related fields. Join us as we discuss treatment options, innovations, techniques, and more with a wide variety of medical professionals.

Questions or podcast suggestions? Email us at PTpodcast@medstar.net.

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Let's Get Physical (Therapy)

ACL Series: Living with a torn ACL: All About Copers with PT Samantha Kind and ATC Kellie Loehr

June 09, 2026 • Becca Schumer/Kellie Loehr, MS, LAT, ATC and Samantha King, PT, DPT • Season 4 • Episode 25

0:00 | 39:29

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An ACL tear doesn’t automatically mean surgery, and not every ACL-deficient athlete is the same. In this episode, I’m joined by Kellie Loehr, ATC, who shares her personal journey of tearing her ACL and choosing non-operative management, alongside physical therapist Samantha King, PT, to break down what it really means to be a “coper.”

We discuss how clinicians identify potential copers, the role of strength and neuromuscular control, psychological readiness, and how to determine who may successfully return to sport without reconstruction. This episode challenges the all-or-nothing narrative around ACL tears and emphasizes individualized decision-making and high-quality rehab.

Please be sure to follow us on Instagram @medstarhealthpt and email: PTPodcast@medstar.net with any questions or podcast ideas! Thank you for listening!

Rebecca Schumer

Host