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Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association

Jennifer stevens-lapsley.

Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA

Gregory E Hicks

Department of Physical Therapy, and Clinical & Translational Research, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA

Kory Zimney

Department of Physical Therapy, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA

Emily J Slaven

Krannert School of Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA

Tara Jo Manal

Scientific Affairs, American Physical Therapy Association, Alexandria, Virginia, USA

Lynn M Jeffries

Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA

Associated Data

Data are available from the authors upon reasonable request.

Research agendas play an important role in directing scholarly inquiry in a field. The Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) outlines research priorities that are vital to advancing physical therapist practice and the profession. The development of the research agenda included multiple iterative steps and feedback from stakeholders. A research agenda subgroup (n = 6) of the APTA Scientific and Practice Affairs Committee (SPAC), with APTA staff support, gathered information on existing research agendas, developed draft priority descriptions, and gathered feedback via surveys. The subgroup first conducted an environmental scan of the research agendas in the physical therapy and rehabilitation fields. To gather information about research priorities, APTA’s Technology and Organizational Performance department distributed a survey to 3 samples. APTA staff organized the feedback, and SPAC edited and synthesized a draft agenda. This draft was sent out in survey form to the original samples and to members of the APTA Academy of Research. Concurrently, a repeat environmental scan was conducted. A final draft of the research agenda was sent for final review to a smaller cohort (n = 95) that included content experts in each of the main categories of the agenda as identified by the APTA Academy of Research. The SPAC research agenda subgroup reviewed and incorporated the information into the final draft. The final research agenda includes priorities in topical areas (population health, mechanistic research, clinical research, education/professional development research, health services research, and workforce development) identified as key in the evolution of our profession.

The Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From APTA identifies research priorities within the profession vital to advancing the practice and profession of physical therapy. The research agenda has 6 key areas of focus: population health research, mechanistic research, clinical research, education and professional development research, health services research, and workforce research. Researchers, funding agencies, and public policy makers can use the research agenda to concentrate research efforts around these areas.

Introduction

Physical therapy is a profession with a theoretical and scientific base that is dynamically evolving. Physical therapists are health professionals who diagnose and manage movement dysfunction to restore, maintain, and promote optimal physical function for the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. 1 Physical therapist assistants assist a physical therapist in the provision of physical therapist services. Physical therapists possess knowledge and skills that are derived and supported by research. 2 As the physical therapy profession advances, our research priorities must evolve to substantiate our progress. The Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) outlines the research priorities that APTA believes are vital to advancing physical therapist practice and the profession.

A central observation from 2 previous research agendas is that the focus and scope of research agendas have continuously evolved with the physical therapy profession. In 2000, the first published research agenda—the Clinical Research Agenda for Physical Therapy 3 —focused on clearly defined research questions in the clinical realm. The primary goal of this original research agenda was to promote research that helps clinicians optimize clinical practice. The second agenda, the Revised Research Agenda for Physical Therapy, 4 published in 2011, proposed broader research priorities, demonstrating the growth in the research mindset within our profession. This second agenda recognized the pragmatic purpose of the original agenda and its role in guiding key clinical questions for researchers to prioritize along with providing insights to key funding agencies. The authors of the second agenda acknowledged that many of the priorities from the initial agenda had been addressed, and, with the growth of the profession and health care as a whole, the authors realized that an updated agenda was necessary to stay current. As we have learned from these previous agendas, the next agenda also needs to promote current and anticipated future research demands of the profession. As such, the Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From APTA further expands on our profession’s continued advancement and considers current issues, new innovations, and forward-thinking viewpoints, including the need to develop a broad range of research questions. Although no formal evaluation has been made of the impact of previous agendas, there is some evidence that the previous agendas may have had a positive impact on our profession, as seen through continued advancement of physical therapy research, combined with resolution of many of the topics posed in previous agendas.

Beard et al 5 stated that research agendas should provide “The Idea.” The Idea is the initial element in the cascade of events that lead to innovative research and practice change. In this new research agenda, we seek to germinate innovative research by presenting broad ideas originating from and reviewed by clinicians and researchers within our profession. Our overall goal is to stimulate research that advances the APTA vision statement of transforming society by optimizing movement to improve the human experience . Additionally, this agenda aims to: (1) promote partnerships and collaborations to answer these critical questions; (2) assist the APTA Board of Directors in linking research priorities with APTA initiatives; (3) influence funding agencies’ support for key practice and research initiatives identified by physical therapists as essential for the advancement of the profession; (4) provide a benchmark of the changing research priorities of the profession over time; and (5) provide a framework on which APTA components and rehabilitation-focused organizations can build their research priorities.

Development Process

The development of an updated research agenda ( Supplementary Appendix ) included multiple iterative steps and consolidation of items and feedback from various interested parties at various stages of development. This work was initiated by the APTA Scientific and Practice Affairs Committee (SPAC), which consists of 14 APTA Board–appointed members representing active research programs, Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, APTA, academy and state professional leadership and advocacy, academic institutions, clinical facility leadership, and multiple clinical specializations. Throughout the process, environmental scans were performed, which involved combining inputs from various sources related to research, funding, and global health issues to assist in decision making. A research agenda subgroup (n = 6) of SPAC, with APTA staff support, performed the synthesis of these inputs.

First Environmental Scan and Category Revision

In November 2019, the entire SPAC and APTA staff performed an environmental scan of the research agendas in the physical therapy and rehabilitation fields. Sourced documents included APTA’s Clinical Research Agenda for Physical Therapy 3 and the Revised Research Agenda for Physical Therapy, 4 “Education Research in Physical Therapy: Visions of the Possible,” 6 The APTA Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy (APTA Pediatrics) Research Agenda, 7 Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy and Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy research interests, 8 , 9 the Occupational Therapy Research Agenda 10 and the Occupational Therapy Education Research Agenda–Revised, 11 Center on Health Services Training and Research funding priorities, 12 and the National Institutes of Health Research Plan on Rehabilitation . 13 The review of these resources identified the need to create a conceptual framework to support the organization of the research items and minimize redundancy.

The group proposed and finalized a research agenda purpose statement to anchor the agenda, with overt reference to its intended purposes and consideration of its intended audiences ( Supplementary Appendix ). The initial intended audience comprised APTA leaders, member groups, related organizations, program boards, and commissions. The audience expanded to include APTA components (academies, sections, and state chapters), the American Council of Academic Physical Therapy, the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education, and the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship Education.

The research agenda subgroup reorganized the 2011 Revised Research Agenda for Physical Therapy 4 into updated categories. Through consensus decision making, the subgroup proposed eliminating areas that were no longer relevant and adding missing areas. Missing areas included health disparities, research design, implementation science, genomics, population health, and patient experiences. The review allowed the remaining research areas to be allocated under the 6 major categories seen in the final agenda: population health research, mechanistic research, clinical research, education and professional development research, health services research, and workforce research. Definitions were created for each category and approved by all SPAC members.

Research Question Content Generation

As with previous research agenda efforts, input from interested stakeholders was critical to creating an agenda that will help guide the profession. To formally gather input on the agenda, an electronic survey was conducted by APTA’s Technology and Organizational Performance department from July to October 2020. The survey requested a review of the research categories and nomination of 2 or 3 top research priorities in each individual category. This information was utilized in the iterative process for developing the research agenda. In addition, an open-ended comment area provided an opportunity for feedback on the 6 categories and their corresponding definitions. The survey was distributed to 2 separate samples; duplicate email contacts were eliminated for those in overlapping groups. Sample 1 (July 8–14, 2020) included all SPAC members (n = 14). Sample 2 (August 19 – September 11, 2020) and Sample 3 (October 9–29, 2020) included the presidents/research chairs of the 18 APTA sections and academies and 51 chapters, APTA Board–appointed councils (Rehabilitation, Science, and Technology; Health Systems; and Health Promotion and Wellness), Foundation for Physical Therapy Research board members, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists, the Catherine Worthingham Fellows of APTA, and the APTA House of Delegates (n = 731). Because the response rate on the second sample was low, a third request was conducted. Before the third sample survey was launched, SPAC members sent a communication to nonresponders to further encourage participation. Total response rate was 12.7% (N = 93). Even though the response rate was low, the diversity of responses from the interested parties was high, which helps add to the depth of responses provided and minimize the risk of weak points.

The results of all 3 surveys were collected and collated into 1 document. APTA staff reviewed the data and organized the feedback, and the SPAC research agenda subgroup edited and synthesized the list, organizing it within the main categories to create a draft research agenda. This draft agenda was shared directly with APTA payment and government affairs staff and select policymaker contacts with an open question for feedback on the draft agenda items. They were asked to identify any missing research priorities that would influence the policy landscape. The missing priorities could be related to value, payment, or research targets that would provide scientific data to better understand policy gaps and the role of rehabilitation, to ultimately improve the health of society. Their feedback was incorporated into the draft agenda for use in the subsequent survey.

Draft Agenda Survey

As with past research agendas, the draft of this agenda was sent out in survey form to the original sample plus all members of the APTA Academy of Research. The survey questioned if an item was unclear or redundant and if something was missing, and it included an area to nominate new research priorities. The survey was open from December 3, 2021, to January 2, 2022, to a sample of 2019. The response rate was 5.7% (N = 116). Respondents of this survey included APTA Academy leaders representing their members in addition to individual responses. Results of this survey were incorporated into the draft agenda for consideration for inclusion.

Repeat Environmental Scan

Concurrently, a repeat environmental scan to survey the landscape of the research agendas in the physical therapy and rehabilitation fields was completed to identify any additional research priorities for consideration. The second environmental scan also included a review of active grants within National Institutes of Health (NIH) RePORTER. 14 Search terms “physical therapy,” “physical therapist,” “physiotherapy,” “physiotherapist,” (or) resulted in 232 project titles, terms, and abstracts. Projects were classified into categories and reviewed to identify missing/gap areas for consideration in the most recent draft agenda. This same process was completed for research projects funded by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research in 2020, 2021, and 2022. Finally, the Disability & Rehabilitation Research Coalition research priorities 15 and the World Health Organization research priorities 16 were evaluated to capture national or global occurrences and focus that could impact the need for physical therapy research. This environmental scan identified 3 missing research priorities and contributed to revisions of 5 others.

The research agenda subgroup of SPAC incorporated the information from the draft agenda survey and the environmental scan into the final agenda draft. The group identified areas of consolidation and minimized redundancy within and among the research priorities in the 6 major categories.

Final Research Agenda Draft Survey

The final draft was sent to a smaller cohort for final review (N = 95). This group included content experts in each of the main categories of the agenda as identified by the APTA Academy of Research. It also included all members of SPAC; the Public Affairs and Policy Committee (PPAC); the APTA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (DEIC); and APTA component presidents/research chairs. The respondents were asked to provide any revisions and identify any missing priorities. The total survey response rate was 26.3% (N = 25).

Final Research Agenda

The research agenda subgroup of SPAC reviewed and incorporated the information into the final research agenda. The entire SPAC recommended the research agenda for approval by the APTA Board of Directors. The agenda was approved at the November 2022 APTA Board meeting ( Supplementary Appendix ).

The agenda includes research priorities in 6 categories (population health, mechanistic research, clinical research, education/professional development research, health services research, and workforce development) ( Fig. 1 ) identified as key in the evolution of our profession. Each category has a narrative description of the topic and a series of research priorities within each topic. Population health research consists of 12 major research priorities seeking to characterize, explain, or influence the levels and distributions of health within and across populations—such as among groups—as well as across time and generations. Mechanistic research consists of 9 priorities designed to understand a biological or behavioral process, the pathophysiology of a disease, or the mechanism of action of an intervention. Clinical research has 20 priorities focused on investigating the safety, effectiveness, and efficacy of diagnosis and diagnostic procedures, interventions and protocols, devices, and technology intended for human use. Education and professional development research has 7 priorities focused on examining education and learning processes and the human attributes, interactions, organizations, and institutions that shape educational outcomes across the learning continuum. Health services research consists of 11 priorities focused on the investigation of how social factors, financing systems, organizational structures and processes, health technologies, and personal behaviors affect access to health care, the quality and total cost of health care, and, ultimately, health and well-being. This area covers the domains of individuals, care partners and significant others, organizations, institutions, communities, and populations. Finally, workforce research consists of 11 priorities focused on investigating the health professionals labor force, including examination of the inflow and outflow of workforce, proper demographics and characteristics, organizational structure and practice environment, geographical distribution of providers, and utilization of services. The Table displays the timeline for the research agenda development, and Figure 2 describes the research agenda development pathway.

Categories and definitions for Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association .

Development Timeline for Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association a

Development process for Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association . Sample 1: select APTA interested parties included presidents/research chairs of the 18 APTA sections and academies and 51 chapters, APTA Board–appointed councils (Frontiers in Rehabilitation, Science, and Technology; Health Systems; and Health Promotion and Wellness), Foundation for Physical Therapy Research board members, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists, the Catherine Worthingham Fellows of APTA, and APTA House of Delegates (N = 731; responders = 93). Sample 2: sample 1 participants plus APTA Academy of Research members (N = 2019; responders = 116). Final content expert review: Content experts in each of the main categories of the agenda as identified by the APTA Academy of Research, SPAC, the Public Affairs and Policy Committee, the APTA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, and APTA component presidents/research chairs (N = 95; responders = 25).

“Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world.”   17 Prior to the establishment of our first professional research agenda, there was certainly action in the physical therapy research space, with research being published; however, there was not yet a collective vision for the profession in the form of a consensus document with research priorities to drive physical therapy research forward. The physical therapy profession’s first clinical research agenda was published in 2000 3 with the goal of building a collective vision for physical therapy research that would solidify our professional research foundation and enhance practice for all physical therapist clinicians. Although we cannot establish a causal link between the publication of the agenda and the maturation of our science, we know that there were significant advancements in physical therapy science over the course of the next decade, as evidenced by growing publications and an increase in funded research. A new agenda was needed to reflect a more refined vision for the profession. The subsequent revised research agenda was published in 2011 4 ; and, since that time, we have continued to see incredible growth in our profession’s research foundation as well as significant changes within the profession of physical therapy.

During the more than 20 years since our first clinical research agenda was published, our profession has become more external facing in its focus. For example, APTA’s vision for the profession in 2000 was more inward-focused and had goals related to achieving direct access, utilization of evidence-based practice, becoming a doctoring profession, and autonomous practice. The current vision statement has a greater public health orientation with the goal of “transforming society by optimizing movement to improve the human experience.” The Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From APTA is truly reflective of this shift in our profession as evidenced by the breadth and greater complexity of topical areas covered (population health, mechanistic research, clinical research, education and professional development research, health services research, and workforce development research) and by the focus on social determinants of health throughout the agenda.

Although broad input from the physical therapy community was sought in the development of all 3 of our profession’s research agendas, current members of our profession see very different challenges on our present research front based on the items included in this agenda. This agenda is very much reflective of the broader health climate nationally and globally. Our profession’s scientific needs have grown and evolved over time, as is appropriate. For example, in the Clinical Research Agenda of 2000, there were priorities related to the effectiveness of interventions that were narrower in focus and not patient centered. Specifically, “What is the effect of exercise (duration, intensity and type) on bone density?” and “Are manual techniques effective in the treatment of impairments and functional limitations?” These priorities demonstrated the state of our science at that time. In the 2023 research agenda, the intervention priorities have a broader and richer focus, such as, “Explore the role and value of artificial intelligence in improving and customizing patient care” and “Evaluate the impact of clinical practice guideline implementation on the patient care experience, population health, and economic outcomes.”

The authors of the original agenda asserted that “the Clinical Research Agenda can serve as a benchmark for the systematic progression of physical therapy science.” 3 The wisdom and truth of this assertion is clearly evident when comparatively examining the foci of the original research agenda with those of the updated versions over the ensuing 20-plus years. For instance, it is noteworthy that we have moved well beyond the need to list research agenda items focused on establishing the psychometric properties (eg, reliability and validity) of tests and measures, as we did in the first agenda. It is no longer a priority for our profession to be so prescriptive in suggesting future directions for the scientific pathways that our investigators choose. There is currently a recognition that our scientists do not need to be coached on methodological approaches to answering questions; rather, the agenda is designed to inspire our scientists to answer groundbreaking questions that will change the standing of our profession in the greater health care landscape.

The creation of this most recent agenda provided an opportunity for us to benchmark our scientific growth in comparison to our past agendas. It will be important to continue to chart our scientific evolution in this manner with future research agendas. Clearly, the physical therapy profession has made systematic progress in its scientific foundation, thus improving the long-term sustainability of our profession within the health care landscape. Although the purpose of the agenda is to provide a framework for researchers and APTA constituents to build their individual research priorities, this agenda also sets the importance of some of the key areas of focus through the 6 topic areas. The addition of population health research in this agenda demonstrates the movement of the profession into the broader landscape of health care to include health disparities, social determinants of health, and other global health initiatives.

In addition to publication of this research agenda, APTA will support initiatives to disseminate it to interested parties. The agenda will be presented at various meetings with rehabilitation funders, researchers, and their collaborators to promote partnerships and to provide a framework on which rehabilitation-focused organizations can build their future research priorities. The agenda will be shared widely among funding agencies. Because it is approved by the APTA Board of Directors, the agenda will be referenced as a guiding document for APTA to inform research priorities and initiatives. This agenda will replace the previous research agenda as part of the funding criteria for the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research in its proposal review process.

One of the challenges in developing a research agenda is to identify the optimal method for evaluating how it has impacted the profession and its scientific foundation. To date, there has been no systematic evaluation of the previous 2 agendas. The lack of evaluation is likely tied to the significant challenges in measuring the impact because it is extremely difficult to attribute temporally distant outcomes to an intervention such as the publication and dissemination of a research agenda. Furthermore, the most distal outcomes of interest (eg, research productivity, grant funding, resultant practice change) will undoubtedly be affected by a multitude of other influences, thus making it nearly impossible to attribute global scientific progress within physical therapy solely to the research agenda. But it is possible to measure the direct influence of the research agenda on more proximal outcomes, such as the number of times the research agenda is cited or the number of different dissemination activities undertaken to proliferate the vision set within the research agenda. In this vein, we could annually assess which research agenda items are represented in research funded by the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, or whether the research priorities for the different APTA components and academies align with the research agenda.

As we attempt to understand the more indirect influences of the agenda on the key outcomes of interest (research productivity, grant funding, resultant practice change), we would be better served by focusing on the contributions of the research agenda, rather than attempting to focus on the idea of its direct attribution. Then we will be positioned to qualitatively assess the contributions of the research agenda to our outcomes of interest in a systematic fashion. To this end, we could regularly conduct case studies to understand how research that aligns with the agenda has been used to advance the profession. For example, the APTA Strategic Plan for 2022–2025 has an explicit goal to “drive demand for and access to physical therapy as a proven pathway to improve the human experience.” 18 In the health services research section of the agenda, there are several items that set pathways in place for achieving this goal, such as “Explore methods for increasing access to physical therapist services within different socioeconomic and racial groups.” Over time, APTA could conduct a descriptive analysis to understand what progress has been made in terms of this goal regarding demand and access and could explore what research related to these research agenda items has been put forth to reach said goals. This type of assessment does not provide direct attribution but gives us an opportunity to understand the contributions that the agenda makes to meeting our association’s goals. Although this method of evaluation cannot be fully validated, future iterations of the research agenda—and ongoing retrospective assessment of the progress on the association’s goals—will help to provide an assessment of the utility of this process. Of course, this process has the limitation of relying on hindsight to view its success or failure over time.

The Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From APTA includes priorities identified as key in the evolution of our profession. Researchers can use the areas and associated priorities to help refine their individual research agendas and scientific queries and adapt what is important to the profession to their specific research area. The research agenda provides guidance across the continuum of research from bench science to translational projects, bringing the science into clinical practice and the community. As the profession moves forward, an assessment of the influence of this research agenda on the profession will be important to inform future research agendas.

Supplementary Material

Supplementary_material-research_agenda_for_physical_therapy_from_apta_v2_pzad126, acknowledgments.

The authors thank the following individuals: staff in the APTA scientific affairs research department and knowledge and technology data management department; APTA Scientific and Practice Affairs Committee members, especially Shih-Chiao Tseng, PT, PhD, for their support in project leadership, data and survey management, and editing synthesis; Ben Martin PT, DPT, 2022 APTA leadership scholar for support on the second environmental scan, and APTA Senior Director of Member Communications Lois Douthitt and Elizabeth Staton at the University of Colorado for editing synthesis.

Contributor Information

Jennifer Stevens-Lapsley, Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA.

Gregory E Hicks, Department of Physical Therapy, and Clinical & Translational Research, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA.

Kory Zimney, Department of Physical Therapy, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA.

Emily J Slaven, Krannert School of Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.

Tara Jo Manal, Scientific Affairs, American Physical Therapy Association, Alexandria, Virginia, USA.

Lynn M Jeffries, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA.

Author Contributions

Jennifer Stevens-Lapsley (Conceptualization-Equal, Data curation-Equal, Project administration-Equal, Writing – original draft-Equal, Writing – review & editing-Equal), Gregory Hicks (Conceptualization-Equal, Data curation-Equal, Project administration-Equal, Writing – original draft-Equal, Writing – review & editing-Equal), Kory Zimney (Conceptualization-Equal, Data curation-Equal, Project administration-Equal, Writing – original draft-Equal, Writing – review & editing-Equal), Emily Slaven (Conceptualization-Equal, Data curation-Equal, Project administration-Equal, Writing – original draft-Equal, Writing – review & editing-Equal), Tara Manal (Conceptualization-Equal, Data curation-Equal, Project administration-Equal, Writing – original draft-Equal, Writing – review & editing-Equal), Lynn Jeffries (Conceptualization-Equal, Data curation-Equal, Project administration-Equal, Writing – original draft-Equal, Writing – review & editing-Equal).

There are no funders to report for this submission.

Data Availability

Disclosure and presentations.

The authors completed the ICMJE Form for Disclosure of Potential Conflicts of Interest and reported no conflicts of interest.

T.J. Manal is an employee of the American Physical Therapy Association.

The research agenda will be presented at the 2024 American Physical Therapy Association Combined Sections Meeting; February 15–17, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts.

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The Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization governed by a board of trustees.

The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research is an independent 501(c)(3) governed by a Board of Trustees . Our work would not be possible without the guidance and expertise of an extraordinary group of volunteers who serve on our board and those who serve on special committees . Many have first-hand experience as past recipients of Foundation funding.

Our team also includes the people that carry out the foundation’s day-to-day operations and strategic plan — the foundation’s staff ., our board of trustees.

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If you are interested in serving on a Special Committee of the Foundation for Physical Therapy Research, please contact Barbara Malm, Chief Executive Officer at  [email protected] . Your name will be added to our pool of potential volunteers. Committee members are selected by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

2023 Standing Committees

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Paul Rockar, President Stuart Binder-Macleod, Vice President Rebecca Craik, Secretary Don Jackson, Treasurer

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Don Jackson (Treasurer – Chair) Barbara Connolly Jimmy McKay Paul Rockar

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Barbara Connolly (Chair) Don Jackson Marilyn Moffat

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Chris Powers, (Chair) Nancy Byl Rebecca Craik Linda Van Dillen

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Selected by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, the SRC is composed of physical therapists and other individuals with experience in preparing students for research careers. The SRC is appointed by the Board of Trustees and is vital to awarding annual scholarships, fellowships, and grants each year. If you meet the SRC Selection Criteria and are interested in joining this all-volunteer committee and serving as a reviewer – or know of someone who could serve as an application reviewer- please email [email protected] for more information.

CRITERIA FOR MEMBERSHIP ON THE SCIENTIFIC REVIEW COMMITTEE

a. Must hold a PhD or equivalent degree from an accredited university b. Must have personal experience conducting research, as evidenced by a sustained publication record in refereed, peer-reviewed journals c. Must have received extramural, peer-reviewed grants as a principal investigator d. Experience reviewing grant proposals on an National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, Department of Defense, Veterans’ Administration, or other national level funding organization study panel, such as the American Heart Association study panel is desirable e. Expertise in content areas valuable to research such as the use of outcome measurement tools and instruments and quality of life evaluations is desirable. f. Must have knowledge about the physical therapy profession as evidenced by APTA membership, active participation at national APTA meetings, a sustained record of service at the component level, or a history of collaboration with physical therapists. g. Knowledge of the American Physical Therapy Association’s Research Agenda is preferable (The APTA agenda can be provided for those that may have limited knowledge). h. Demonstrated commitment to support junior investigators in their development to become successful and independent researchers. i. Must understand that SRC members are ineligible to apply for Foundation for Physical Therapy funding during their term of service.

Vicki Tysseling, PT, PHD

Scientific Review Committee Chair Northwestern University

Beth Smith, PT, DPT, PHD

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T. George Hornby, PT, PHD, FAPTA

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MARK BOWDEN, PT, PHD

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TIMOTHY BRINDLE, PHD

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NOELLE MOREAU, PT, PHD

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JASON FALVEY, PT, DPT, PHD

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SARA GOMBATTO, PT, PHD

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ADAM GOODE, PT, DPT, PHD

Duke University

LAURITA M. HACK, PT, DPT, PhD, MBA, FAPTA

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ANNE KLOOS, PT, PHD

The Ohio State University

MURRAY E. MAITLAND, PT, PHD

University of Washington

JOHN POPOVICH, JR., PT, DPT, ATC, PHD

Michigan State University

CATHERINE QUATMAN-YATES, PT, PHD

Kimberly topp, pt, phd.

University of California, San Francisco

LADORA V. THOMPSON, PT, PHD 

Boston University

LIANG-CHING TSAI, PT, PHD 

Georgia State University

LISA VANHOOSE, PT, MPH, PHD 

Ujima Institute

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Cory christiansen pt, phd.

University of Colorado

Julie M. Fritz, PT, PhD, FAPTA

University of Utah

Amy Bailes, PT, PhD

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

Sue Effgen, PT, PhD, FAPTA, MMSc

University of Kentucky

Sandra Kaplan, PT, DPT, PhD, FAPTA

Rutgers University

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The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, provision of services, and the awarding of grants, scholarships and fellowships. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, grant and scholarship applicants and funding recipients.

All staff are employees of the APTA. The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research strictly adheres to all employment policies of APTA and strives to create a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive work environment.

Research Program

The Foundation for Physical Therapy Research believes diversity and inclusion is an essential component to driving its mission Any individual(s) with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary to carry out the proposed research as the Principal Investigator(s) is encouraged to work with his/her organization to develop an application for support and to seek support from FPTR staff to address any concerns or questions.

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Research Committee

Chair: Amee L Seitz, PT, DPT, PhD [email protected]

I am a clinical research scientist and physical therapist specializing in orthopaedic disorders. My research seeks to optimize patient treatment outcomes and the health of individuals with musculoskeletal disorders. In my research lab, I employ an integrative approach exploring the interaction between neuromuscular and biomechanical mechanisms and body structure and function to improve the evaluation, classification, and intervention efficacy and effectiveness of musculoskeletal shoulder disorders. Rich collaborations with orthopaedics, engineering, emergency medicine, sports medicine, and radiology enhance our ability to develop novel methods to advance the examination and treatment of patients seeking care for musculoskeletal shoulder pain and low back pain.

My academic teaching responsibilities are primarily in the course series, the clinical management of patients with musculoskeletal disorders, leading shoulder and lumbar spine content. I mentor PhD students in the dual degree MD/PhD program and DPT/PhD program. My clinical expertise is in the examination, evaluation, and non-operative and post-operative management of patients with shoulder disorders. I am a strong advocate of guideline based clinical care and have co-authored several clinical practice guidelines for rehabilitation of patients with various shoulder disorders with the American Physical Therapy Association and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Research Committee Vice Chair:  Sean D. Rundell, PT, DPT, PhD, 2022 - 2025 Board Liaison: Lori Michener, 2019 - 2023 Committee Members:   Samanaaz Khoja, John Fraser, Gretchen Salsich, Cristine Agresta

To learn more about the Research Committee's purpose, scope, and responsibilities, click here . 

Interested in surveying the AOPT membership?

Click here to access our survey application portal. 

Are there opportunities to get involved?

Yes! As a current member of the AOPT, you are welcome to submit your name and interests on our Volunteer Involvement Page .

Small Grant Program

The AOPT supports its members by funding studies to systematically examine orthopaedic practice issues. The AOPT  will offer 2 grants in 2024: New Investigator and Unrestricted. 

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Assistance with Developing a Research Abstract

Needing help with developing a research abstract or case study? Learn more from the AOPT Research Committee members. 

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The OSPRO-YF is a concise yellow flag assessment tool that allows for accurate estimates of individual, full-length psychological questionnaire scores for depressive symptoms, anxiety, anger, fear-avoidance beliefs, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, self-efficacy, and pain acceptance.

AOPT Small Grant Program

The Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy supports its members by funding studies to systematically examine orthopaedic practice issues.

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View the grants previously funded by the AOPT

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Physical Therapy

Clinical research.

Physical Therapists in the Rehabilitation Medicine Department at the NIH Clinical Center participate in numerous active NIH protocols and collaborate with investigators from among the 27 NIH institutes and Centers, including interdisciplinary researchers within the NIH Clinical Research Center.

Physical Therapy research participation involves working with patients having a wide range of rare diagnoses. Physical Therapy assessments may include muscle strength, range of motion, cardiopulmonary function, gait, pain, posture, foot and ankle alignment, edema, and pediatric developmental patterns. Physical therapists participate in protocol development, data management and analysis, presentation, and manuscript preparation and publication. Therapists participate as associate investigators in many clinical research protocols. Contact the Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Physical Therapy Section for additional information.

Examples of studies and research protocols in which NIH Clinical Center Physical Therapists are involved:

• Assessment of muscle strength in patients with dermatomyositis receiving a variety of treatments.
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• Evaluation of impairments and disabilities in patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1).
• Exercise intervention in Post-Covid Syndrome.
• Evaluation of motor function after gene therapy in children with giant axonal neuropathy (GAN).

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Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association

Affiliations.

• 1 Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
• 2 Department of Physical Therapy, and Clinical & Translational Research, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA.
• 3 Department of Physical Therapy, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA.
• 4 Krannert School of Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
• 5 Scientific Affairs, American Physical Therapy Association, Alexandria, Virginia, USA.
• 6 Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA.
• PMID: 37712887
• PMCID: PMC10549784
• DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzad126

Research agendas play an important role in directing scholarly inquiry in a field. The Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) outlines research priorities that are vital to advancing physical therapist practice and the profession. The development of the research agenda included multiple iterative steps and feedback from stakeholders. A research agenda subgroup (n = 6) of the APTA Scientific and Practice Affairs Committee (SPAC), with APTA staff support, gathered information on existing research agendas, developed draft priority descriptions, and gathered feedback via surveys. The subgroup first conducted an environmental scan of the research agendas in the physical therapy and rehabilitation fields. To gather information about research priorities, APTA's Technology and Organizational Performance department distributed a survey to 3 samples. APTA staff organized the feedback, and SPAC edited and synthesized a draft agenda. This draft was sent out in survey form to the original samples and to members of the APTA Academy of Research. Concurrently, a repeat environmental scan was conducted. A final draft of the research agenda was sent for final review to a smaller cohort (n = 95) that included content experts in each of the main categories of the agenda as identified by the APTA Academy of Research. The SPAC research agenda subgroup reviewed and incorporated the information into the final draft. The final research agenda includes priorities in topical areas (population health, mechanistic research, clinical research, education/professional development research, health services research, and workforce development) identified as key in the evolution of our profession.

Impact: The Research Agenda for Physical Therapy From APTA identifies research priorities within the profession vital to advancing the practice and profession of physical therapy. The research agenda has 6 key areas of focus: population health research, mechanistic research, clinical research, education and professional development research, health services research, and workforce research. Researchers, funding agencies, and public policy makers can use the research agenda to concentrate research efforts around these areas.

Keywords: APTA; Agenda; American Physical Therapy Association: History; American Physical Therapy Association: Policies, Positions, and Standards; Physical Therapy; Research.

© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Physical Therapy Association.

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Physical Therapy Research

Physical Therapy Research (PTR) is an Open Access journal that aims to foster important advances in physical therapy. PTR publishes a comprehensive and dynamic array of peer-reviewed articles and materials that are of interest to our broad global audience of researchers, practitioners, continuing-education students, and those interested in the field. The article types include Original Articles, Case Studies, Brief Reports, Reviews, and more. PTR is free to access for all readers and free to publish for most authors * .

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Listing of PhD programs and their focus areas.

Click for additional details., arcadia university - movement science.

MSK: Shoulder, Hip, Knee, and Lower Extremity Overuse Neuro: Stroke, Parkinson's, and MS CardioPulm: Acute care and lung transplant

Augusta University - Applied Health Sciences

Rehabilitation

Azusa Pacific University - PhD in Rehabilitation and Movement Science

This online program is designed to accommodate the working professional. Students will graduate equipped to advance education and research in rehabilitation and movement science. Areas of research focus include: musculoskeletal disorders, pain science, cardiovascular disorders, mental health, performing arts, biomechanics, and movement science.

Bellarmine University - PhD in Health Professions Education

Overall health professions

Boston University - PhD in Rehabilitation Science Program

Function, Participation and Environment; Movement Science; Rehabilitation Interventions

Drexel University - PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Movement science, muscle physiology, neuromuscular performance, pediatric rehabilitation, family centered care, community engagement and physical activity participation, pain management, functional outcomes in older adults and people living with disability

Duke University - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Population Health Sciences

Musculoskeletal epidemiology and health services research

Duquesne University - Rehabilitation Science

Clinical Biomechanics, Orthopedics, Outcomes, Musculoskeletal

East Carolina University - Rehabilitation Sciences

Human movement science and disorders, physiology of aging muscles, pediatric evaluation and rehabilitation, musculoskeletal injury biomechanics and neuromechanics, muscle physiology and exercise, locomotion optimization, degenerative disease neurobiology, age-related balance control and sensorimotor processing

Emory University - Dual Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)/PhD Degree Program between Emory University School of Medicine & Georgia Institute of Technology’s School of Applied Physiology

Neural Plasticity, Motor Control, and Neuromechanics

Georgia State University - Dual Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)/PhD Degree Program between Department of Physical Therapy & Department of Kinesiology

Orthopedics, Biomechanics, Pediatrics, Motor Control, Neuroplasticity, Skeletal Muscle Biology

Idaho State University - PhD in Rehabilitation Science

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Rehabilitation Sciences provides students with a wealth of interprofessional, academic, and scholarly training opportunities to develop their area of expertise (eg., Musculoskeletal Disorders, Neurorehabilitation, etc.) and become independent scholars, educators, administrators, or leaders within their disciplines. The program is offered through either traditional (on-campus; Pocatello, ID or Meridian, ID) or non-traditional (online) models with full-time or part-time options.

Indiana University- Indianapolis - Health and Rehabilitation Science

This in-person (face-to-face) program is designed to develop research scientists in rehabilitation and movement science across the spectrum of research from pre-clinical to clinical to implementation. Areas of research focus may include: musculoskeletal health and disorders, neuromuscular health and disorders, biomechanics, movement science.

Loma Linda University - PhD in Physical Therapy

Designed as a working professional PhD, this program strives to make the degree accessible to physical therapists seeking to enhance their knowledge, conduct outstanding research or to pursue a position to educate the next generation. The program is offered in several modalities: Face to Face, Online and Hybrid to provide flexibility for practicing PTs. A variety of themes are available to match the interest of the student including orthopedics, pain science, neurology and motion sensitivity.

Marquette University - Exercise and Rehabilitation Science

The Exercise and Rehabilitation Science graduate program provides rigorous training in translational research with a unique emphasis in rehabilitation disciplines, including biomechanics, neuroscience, motor control, exercise physiology and sports medicine. You will conduct original research and graduate with a specific area of expertise as well as a core of interdisciplinary knowledge in rehabilitation science. You will leave Marquette prepared to impact the rapidly emerging field of rehabilitation health science as a researcher, faculty scholar, or advanced clinician. Areas of focus include: Neuromuscular physiology, exercise physiology, neural control of movement, skeletal muscle bioenergetics, vascular physiology, sensory perception and pain, biomechanics, and health behavioral strategy

Medical University of South Carolina - PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Science

The three tracks of our program are Pathology and Impairment, Functional Limitations, and Health Services

MGH Institute of Health Professions - PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences Program

The PhD program in Rehabilitation Sciences at MGH Institute of Health Professions trains scientists to conduct research in health and rehabilitation-related fields. Applicants may be clinicians in a health or rehabilitation field (e.g., physical or occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, nursing, medicine) scientists, engineers, or other professionals seeking advanced graduate study and interprofessional research training. A graduate degree (MS or MA) or entry-level clinical degree is required. The impact of disabilities on society is growing as our population ages. Demand is rising for professionals who can conduct clinical research in rehabilitation. The MGH Institute's Interdisciplinary PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences is meeting this critical need by preparing healthcare professionals to conduct high-quality rehabilitation research in academic, research, and/or healthcare settings.

New York University - Pathokinesiology

Biomechanics, Motor Control, Musculoskeletal Disorders, Neurorehabilitation

Northeastern University - Human Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences

Conduct independent (original) basic, translational, and applied research to restore and maximize human functional capacity and wellbeing across the lifespan. The interdisciplinary program and its faculty emphasize core competencies in motor control and motor learning, movement measurement and analysis, knowledge translation theory, and the use of traditional and emerging technologies.

Northeastern University - Personal Health Informatics

Mobile health and applications, data safety and implications, social networking systems connecting families and their medical support networks

Northwestern University - PhD in Neuroscience with specialization in Movement and Rehabilitation Science (MRS)

This program combines a solid training in fundamental neurobiology with training in basic quantitative methods for the development of the scientific knowledge base required for the construction of more effective rehabilitation interventions.

Northwestern University - DPT/PhD (Eng) Dual Degree Program

Movement and Rehabilitation Science (MRS) research focused on understanding the mechanisms involved in movement disorders and developing alternative therapies and devices to address these impairments.

Nova Southeastern University - PhD in Physical Therapy

Clinical, Educational, and Fundamental science researches

Oakland University - Doctor of Philosophy in Human Movement Science

The mission of the Doctor of Philosophy in Human Movement Science program is to prepare leaders, educators and researchers. This degree is designed for physical therapists, exercise science and movement science professionals interested in obtaining the knowledge and skills to produce relevant research in human movement science. Certificates are available in orthopedics, orthopedic manual physical therapy, oncology rehabilitation, teaching and learning, and clinical exercise science or students may develop an individualized concentration in research.

Ohio University - Translational Biomedical Sciences

Motor Control Biomechanics Muscle Physiology

Old Dominion University - Kinesiology & Rehabilitation

This interprofessional program develops research skills of clinicians and movement scientists to contribute to our understanding of how humans move, how this breaks down with aging, musculoskeletal injury, or neurological disease, and how motor skills can be developed through rehabilitation. Students develop knowledge in motor control and learning, neuroscience, and biomechanics to answer kinesiology and rehabilitation questions.

Pacific University - PhD in Education and Leadership Program

<p>This unique, low residency PhD program in Education and Leadership is for experienced educators and health professionals who are committed to building a more equitable world through research and leadership.&nbsp;The PhD Program in Education and Leadership is an inter-professional graduate program built on a commitment to radical inclusion and interprofessional education and is structured for the 21st century working professional. </p> <p>Program is interdisciplinary, Interim Director has both a PhD and a DPT. Virtual, part-time program, 6 credits/term.</p>

Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions - PhD in Health Sciences @Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

Neurological rehabilitation, orthopedic sports sciences, pediatric sciences, health professions education, healthcare leadership &amp; administration, athletic training, health promotion and wellness, human sport &amp; performance

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science - Interprofessional Healthcare Studies

Interprofessional Education and Interprofessional Clinical Proactice. Program admits between 4-6 students every other year.

Rutgers School of Health Professions - Rutgers University Health Professions

Movement and/or Neuro Science&nbsp;

Saint Louis University - PhD in Integrative and Applied Sciences, Health Sciences Concentration

The Health Sciences concentration, at Saint Louis University, prepares students to become scholars and researchers within academic, clinical research, and practice settings by conducting interdisciplinary studies of biological, behavioral, psychosocial and environmental aspects of human health.

Stony Brook University - Health and Rehabilitation Science in the School of Health Technology and Management

Translational research program consisting of an interdisciplinary course of study with concentrations in Disability Studies, Behavioral and Community Health, and Rehabilitation and Movement Science.​ S​tudents conduct research in areas such as basic science, applied research, clinical research, community-based participatory research, educational science, policy and public health/epidemiology.

Temple University - Neuromotor Science

Graduates are prepared to advance science in neuromotor processes including assessment and evaluation of movement, understanding of neuromotor function and integration and its impact on movement on health, functioning and disability, and contributing to the development of interventions to improve human movement – particularly posture and locomotor control and function across the lifespan.

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - PhD in Rehabilitation Science @Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

Clinical anatomy, clinical biomechanics/gait, clinical musculoskeletal rehabilitation, clinical postural control/balance, communication sciences and disorders

Texas Woman's University - PhD in Physical Therapy

The PhD program at TWU is committed to the scientific basis of clinical practice. Students are encouraged to develop their own line of research based on their interests and current areas of clinical practice. Coursework and 1:1 faculty mentoring is designed to prepare students for careers in academia as well as to lead clinical research teams. The program provides a framework for students to develop advanced research and teaching skills. The student, upon graduation, will be able to perform advanced statistical techniques, evaluate and synthesize literature, utilize various instrumentation frequently used in rehabilitation research, develop grants and manuscripts, demonstrate proficiency with current research-related software applications, and understand and apply various teaching strategies.

The Ohio State University - Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Neuroscience, Neural Rehabilitation, Spinal Cord Injury, Biomechanics (Shoulder, Hip, Knee, Gait), Degenerative Neurologic Diseases, Pediatrics (motor development),

The Ohio State University - Neuroscience PhD Program

spinal cord injury, cellular and molecular neuroscience

The University of Alabama at Birmingham - Rehabilitation Science - School of Health Professions

Movement Science, Exercise Science, Occupation Science studied across the domains of body structure and function; activity, and participation/quality of life, and applied to populations with health conditions or disease processes that involve physical rehabilitation.

The University of Vermont - Neuroscience

Neuroscience

The University of Vermont - Interprofessional Health Sciences

Biomedical and Health science, Communication Sciences and Disorders, Integrative Health, Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences

University at Buffalo, State University of New York - Rehabilitation Science PhD

Neuroscience (clinical to basic), Pediatrics, Simulation-based learning, Assistive technology, Fall and frailty prevention, Spinal Cord Injury, Vestibular and balance physiology

University of California, San Francisco - Rehabilitation Science

The UCSF Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, in collaboration with faculty from the Department of Physical Therapy at San Francisco State University (SFSU), provides a unique opportunity to study rehabilitation science. Our PhD in Rehabilitation Science program addresses the broader perspective of basic and clinical sciences in two research tracks: Neuroscience and Musculoskeletal Biomechanics.

University of Central Florida - Kinesiology

Kinesiology; Rehabilitation Science; Sports Science

University of Cincinnati - Health & Rehabilitation Sciences

This is a new program: rehabilitation science, nutrition, movement science, health sciences, human performance

University of Colorado - PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science

Applied Exercise and Cardiopulmonary Physiology, Applied Motor Control, Applied Biomechanics, Health Services, Implementation and Dissemination Science, Clinical Trials, Translational Rehabilitation Technology

University of Delaware - Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Biomechanics and Movement Science

(1) Applied Anatomy and Physiology(2) Biomechanics (3) Cytomechanics (4) Motor Control and Behavior; and (5) Clinical and Translational Science.

University of Florida - Rehabilitation Science PhD Program

Movement Science Disability Science

University of Illinois, Chicago - Rehabilitation Sciences

Neurological rehabilitation, Cardiovascular rehabilitation, Sports physical therapy, Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal rehabilitation,

University of Iowa - Physical Rehabilitation Science

Human Movement Control/Performance, Neurobiology of Pain, Neuromuscular Biomechanics, Orthopedic Gait Analysis, Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Sports Medicine, Human Integrative and Cardiovascular Physiology, Applied Neuroplasticity.

University of Jamestown - Clinical Research

Clinical Research

University of Kansas Medical Center - Rehabilitation Science

The program is designed to prepare outstanding leaders who advance innovative interdisciplinary research in rehabilitation science. A major focus of the program is to advance the science of rehabilitation and to elucidate the scientific basis for the procedures and processes used in clinical practice. Areas of research emphasis include studies designed to (1) promote an understanding of the pathology of injury, disease, functional impairment, and associated disabilities, (2) espouse the rationale for therapies designed to alleviate impaired human function and related physical and mental disabilities, and (3) to advance educational innovations in physical therapy and athletic training education.

University of Kentucky - Rehabilitation Sciences Doctoral Program

Musculoskeletal issues, neurorehabilitation, health services research

University of Maryland - Baltimore - Physical Rehabilitation Science

Neuromotor Control & Rehab Core Concentration: This core concentration area of study consists of two facets: neuromotor science and motor control. Neuromotor science refers to knowledge about brain anatomy, biology, and physiology in relation to movement and movement disorders. Relevant techniques for research might include brain imaging, transcranial magnetic stimulation, startle probes, peripheral nerve stimulation or electroencephalography each of which are available to the trainees. Motor control refers to knowledge about the principles of interaction between neural/physiological, biomechanical, behavioral and developmental systems underlying movement function and dysfunction that can inform rehabilitation assessments and interventions. Relevant techniques for research might include physiological and biomechanical analyses, adaptation and learning paradigms, and clinical tests of movement function. Students are expected to have a knowledge-base in both areas but the specific applications will depend on their research questions.

University of Miami - Doctor of Philosophy in Physical Therapy

Health Outcomes Neuroscience Cardiopulmonary Musculoskeletal

University of Michigan-Flint - PhD in Physical Therapy; Dual DPT/PhD in Physical Therapy

The focus is on the movement sciences, higher education/leadership, and research/scholarship. Students spend sufficient time on campus for coursework (mix of in-person/online), interacting with other graduate students and their Chair/Committee, conducting research, and fostering intellectual activities.

University of Minnesota - Rehabilitation Science

The mission of the Division of Rehabilitation Science is to discover and disseminate rehabilitation knowledge and improve the quality of life, participation, health, performance and well-being of people in Minnesota and throughout the world. Our mission further encompasses the cultivation of premier leaders and researchers in academia, industry and clinical environments to transform the science and practice of rehabilitation, specifically in areas of (1) Activity, Participation and Disability; (2) Cardiorespiratory Physiology and Rehabilitation; (3) Movement Disorders; (4) Musculoskeletal Health and Biomechanics; (5) Neurobehavioral and Neuroplasticity; (6) Rehab Engineering and Assistive Technology; (7) Sex Differences in Health and Disease; and (8) Therapeutic Clinical Assessment, Intervention and Outcomes.

University of Missouri - PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Science at the School of Health Professions, University of Missouri

This is an interdisciplinary, research-focused doctoral program designed to prepare students for careers in research, higher education, and organizational leadership in the health disciplines (including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, health psychology, health science and public health).

University of Montana - Integrative Physiology and Rehabilitation Sciences

Student-advisor/committee driven, but include physiology, biomechanics, and clinical applications to rehabilitation sciences.

University of Nebraska Medical Center - University of Nebraska Medical Center Medical Science Interdepartmental Area

1) Applied Behavior Analysis, 2) Clinically Relevant Basic Research, 3) Clinical & Translational Research Mentored Scholars Program, Patient Oriented Research, and 4) Health Practice and Medical Education Research, 5) Oral Biology, 6) Patient-Oriented Research, 7) Regenerative Medicine & Biomaterials Design

University of Nevada, Las Vegas - Interdisciplinary Health Sciences

Core classes - Interdisciplinary Health Sciences core classes (24 credits) Rehabilitation Sciences (36 credits) - Pathobiomechanics, neurodegenerative diseases, health services

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill - Human Movement Science Curriculum

1) Biomechanics, 2) Neuromuscular Control and Motor Learning, and 3) Exercise Physiology

Biomechanics, Neuromuscular Control and Motor Learning, and Exercise Physiology

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center - PhD in Allied Health Sciences with Specialization in Rehabilitation Sciences

Aging, rehabilitative technology, biomechanics, cancer, musculoskeletal conditions, stroke or pediatrics

University of Pittsburgh - PhD Program in Rehabilitation Science

Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation Science and Technology, Sports Medicine, Rehabilitation Counselling, Health Information Management

University of South Carolina - Columbia - Rehabilitation Sciences Division of Exercise Science

Applied Physiology, Health Aspects of Physical Activity, and Rehabilitation Sciences.&nbsp; Health insurance also covered for students in good standing.

University of South Dakota, School of Health Sciences - PhD in Health Sciences

<p>The interprofessional Ph.D. in Health Sciences is designed to prepare practicing health care professionals to assume leadership roles in academia, research, and/or health and human services practice settings. Areas of focus are Teaching, Leadership and Issues in Health &amp; Human Services, Discipline-Related, and Research.</p>

University of Southern California - USC Division of Biokinesiology & Physical Therapy

Neurorehabilitation, Musculoskeletal Biomechanics, Exercise Science, Motor Development

University of Texas Medical Branch - Galveston - Rehabilitation Sciences

The program focuses on interdisciplinary research in health prevention, intervention and recovery associated with disabilities and chronic disease, data science, and translational research.

University of Utah - Rehabilitation Sciences

<p>The mission of the doctoral program in Rehabilitation Science is to advance the scientific knowledge underlying the clinical practice of rehabilitation by preparing students to conduct independent scientific research and function as an academic faculty member.&nbsp; Areas of focus of this interdisciplinary program include evidence based management of disease and disability (specifically low back pain, neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, knee/hip osteoarthritis, total knee/hip arthroplasty, lower limb amputation), sports injury prevention and recovery, skeletal muscle physiology (aging, metabolic dysfunction), physical activity promotion for older adults and biomechanics.</p>

University of Washington - PhD program in rehabilitation science @UW

Rehabilitation science

University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee - PhD in Health Sciences

biomedical sciences, communication sciences and disorders, health informatics, kinesiology, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, rehabilitation sciences.

University of Wisconsin-Madison - Clinical Investigation

Virginia commonwealth university - rehabilitation and movement science.

There are two program concentrations: exercise physiology and neuromusculoskeletal dynamics. The exercise physiology concentration prepares individuals to conduct research, direct external funding initiatives and teach in the area of exercise physiology, with particular focus on physical activity's impact on chronic disease states. The neuromusculoskeletal dynamics concentration prepares individuals for research, teaching and clinical initiatives associated with the identification and rehabilitation of movement disorders.

Virginia Commonwealth University - Health Related Sciences

Interdisciplinary core of courses with a specialty tract in Physical Therapy. The program emphasizes use of distance learning technologies combined with traditional didactic methods. The Department of Physical Therapy has a strong academic record of producing highly credible and clinically relevant science for this program in the areas of health services and musculoskeletal research.

Washington University in St. Louis - Movement Science Program

The Movement Science PhD Program at Washington University offers the opportunity to study at the biological intersection of mechanics, energetics, and neural control systems. The Movement Science Program offers training to investigate and improve movement in people with chronic diseases such as stroke, diabetes, low back pain, Parkinson disease, hip disorders and obesity. Studies span the full spectrum of investigation levels, from fundamental discovery through clinical application. Our students become part of the next generation of scientists improving human health through movement. They go on to pursue postdoctoral fellowships, academic faculty positions, and careers in industry.

West Virginia University - Biomedical Sciences

Pathophysiology, Rehabilitation, Performance, Neuroscience&nbsp;

Widener University - Health Professions Education

This is an Interprofessional program for those in the health professions that prepares them for education and research in their field

Email [email protected] with any questions or assistance needed to update your record.

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Value of a PhD

Long-term career earnings in academia might offset opportunity cost of full-time PhD

Why pursue a PhD?

Career paths available within the PT profession

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Associations of co-occurring chronic conditions with use of rehabilitation services in older adults with back pain: a population-based cohort study.

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Factors Associated With Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in People With Parkinson Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Computerized adaptive testing for the berg balance scale improves measurement efficiency without compromising precision in people with stroke, a falls prevention program for people after stroke in guyana: an international collaboration, geographic inequity in physical medicine and rehabilitation services: an administrative case report of successful advocacy for change, identifying deficits in hip and knee muscle strength on the surgical and nonsurgical sides in women up to 12 months after total hip arthroplasty, becoming jedi warriors in physical therapy research: a multifaceted approach, working in the margins: the untapped potential of disability inclusion, author response to ozudogru celik, author response to hébert and perron, on “concerns on the science and practice of a movement system.” joyce ct, beneciuk jm, george sz. phys ther. 2023;103:pzad087. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzad087, the influence of active, passive, and manual therapy interventions on escalation of health care events after physical therapist care in veterans with low back pain, how integrating the 5 pillars of community practice can transform physical therapist education and reduce health disparities, a culture shift for excellence in physical therapy: promoting equity through the structural determinants of health, culturally responsive pedagogy in physical therapist professional education, burnout, exhaustion, experiences of discrimination, and stress among underrepresented and first-generation college students in graduate health profession education, holistic care for people living with chronic musculoskeletal pain: the relevance and importance of sexual function, prestroke physical activity matters for functional limitations: a longitudinal case-control study of 12,860 participants, implementing the effective coach2move approach for community-dwelling older adults with mobility limitations in physical therapist practice: a multi-methods process evaluation, optimizing total knee arthroplasty rehabilitation with telehealth physical activity behavior change intervention: a randomized clinical trial, training an anti-ableist physical therapist workforce: critical perspectives of health care education that contribute to health inequities for people with disabilities, activity and participation are associated with future falls, hospitalizations, and emergency visits in community-dwelling older adults.

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Disparities in Physical Therapy Outcomes Based on Race and Ethnicity: A Scoping Review

Cultural responsiveness in academic physical therapy: an administrative case report, a community development approach in physical therapist education, vestibular rehabilitation: improving symptomatic and functional outcomes of persons with vestibular schwannoma: a systematic review, transgender, gender-diverse, and nonbinary experiences in physical therapy: a descriptive qualitative study, equitable grading practices in physical therapist education: a case report, upper limb function in people with upper and lower limb loss 8 years postinjury: the armed services trauma outcome study (advance) cohort study, development of movement and postural patterns in full-term infants who are at low risk in belgium, india, norway, and the united states, effect of a 4-week telerehabilitation program for people with post-covid syndrome on physical function and symptoms: protocol for a randomized controlled trial, beyond discharge disposition: a scoping review on sociodemographic disparities in rehabilitation use after hip and knee arthroplasty, widespread pressure pain hyperalgesia is not associated with morphological changes of the wrist extensor tendon in unilateral lateral epicondylalgia: a case–control study, effectiveness of photobiomodulation in reducing pain and disability in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review with meta-analysis, diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism research in physical therapy over the last 25 years: a scoping review, long-term follow-up of a person-centered prehabilitation program based on cognitive-behavioral physical therapy for patients scheduled for lumbar fusion, instructing to impact: exploration of doctor of physical therapy education instruction of social determinants of health and health equity for people with disabilities, prognostic factors and treatment effect modifiers for physical health, opioid prescription, and health care utilization in patients with musculoskeletal disorders in primary care: exploratory secondary analysis of the stems randomized trial of direct access to physical therapist–led care, lgbtqia+ cultural competence in physical therapist education and practice: a qualitative study from the patients’ perspective, a call to action: develop physical therapist practice guidelines to affirm people who identify as lgbtqia+, national benchmarks to understand how doctor of physical therapy learners from minoritized race and ethnicity groups perceive their physical therapist education program, functional recovery of adults following acute covid-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis, differences in pain experience among different racial and ethnic groups, community mobility among older adults who are socioeconomically disadvantaged: addressing the poverty penalty, queering the physical therapy curriculum: competency standards to eliminate lgbtqia+ health disparities, email alerts.

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The Emerging Role of Physical Therapists in Wilderness Medicine

PTs have skills and qualifications highly relevant to providing services in the backcountry.

It is a gorgeous Saturday in early fall. After a busy week in the clinic, you and "Chris" — your fellow PT — are hiking on a backcountry trail near a popular but difficult-to-reach rock-climbing area. Suddenly you hear a loud thud followed by a painful groan. You look up the trail and see a young adult male laying on his back at the base of a rocky cliff. He obviously has fallen while climbing and landed hard. His two teenage climbing buddies run up to him and yell, "Tyler, are you alright? Can you get up? Come on Tyler, get up!"

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Date:  April 1, 2021 Contact:  [email protected] Content Type:  Feature

By Paul Beattie, PT, PhD, FAPTA

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