The 13th Annual Hilliard Discussion Recap
In 2023, the Hilliard Discussion, formerly Huffines Discussion, sponsored by funding from the Huffines Institute, carried on the tradition of creating a forum where visionary speakers discuss the latest research and information on important sports medicine and human performance topics. The much-anticipated event was held on September 21, 2023, in person at the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center at the George Bush Library Complex on Texas A&M University’s campus, and over 250 Texas A&M community members attended. Hilliard Discussion 13 allowed attendees to learn about unconventional recovery techniques beyond the typical methods.
Five invited speakers presented a range of recovery methods, providing their viewpoints on what they consider to be the “Ultimate Recovery Modality for Performance.” The audience learned about novel treatment modalities ranging from dry needling, cryotherapy, and cupping to shockwave therapy. Maj Evan Carson, an active-duty physical therapist in the United States Air Force, spoke about the challenges of overseeing a multi-discipline resiliency team responsible for maximizing the health and wellness of air commandos and elite tactical athletes. Dr. Joyce Terrell, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology, Sports Studies, and Physical Education at Morehouse College, discussed treating athletes ranging from professional to little-leaguers and the therapeutic utility of cryotherapy. Dr. David Suarez, a Physical Therapist at Rice University and Houston Methodist Hospital, discussed the value of cupping as a recovery option for collegiate athletes participating in rehab within an integrated sports medicine and performance model. Dr. Heather Linden, the Senior Director of Physical Therapy for the UFC Performance Institute (UFCPI), spoke on the utility of extracorporeal shockwave therapy as a non-invasive treatment option for musculoskeletal injuries for the elite athlete. Finally, Saul Luna, Senior Associate Athletic Trainer for Texas A&M Athletics, discussed the use of dry needling in athlete recovery.
For more information on the 13th Annual Hilliard Discussion and updates on the upcoming 14thAnnual event, please go to the Huffines Institute web page and follow the Institute on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) social media platforms.