We view teaching, clinical practice, and research as complementary endeavors. Collectively, our research activities support the mission of the DPT Program, the Medical Center, and the GW University. The breadth and depth of our scholarly work reflects the diverse areas of expertise found in our faculty.

The hallmark of research at GW is collaboration across disciplines. Our close partnerships on campus and throughout the metropolitan DC area have served to expand our research capabilities. Our primary areas of focus include:

Geriatrics: The GW DPT Program plays an active role in The National Collaborative on Aging at GW. Our research in this area includes the use of functional assessment and balance screening tools, diagnostic ultrasound to assess muscle adaptations to exercise, and negative work strengthening to treat sarcopenia and intrinsic muscle disease.

Neurology: Our research in this area features emerging techniques such as the use of transcranial stimulation to characterize the neurological status of the post-concussive athlete and solders with head injuries. Also, we are investigating the use of force control testing as proxy measure of ataxia in people with cerebellar disorders and adapting the AcceleGlove to aid upper extremity rehabilitation in people with neurological dysfunction.

Pedagogy: A unique feature of the GW DPT Program is the use of standardized patients for clinical education. Our faculty members are involved in the process validating this innovative approach to PT education. Additional topics of investigation include fostering reflective practice and understanding factors that influence student retention in PT programs.

Pediatrics: The physical therapy faculty are involved in several areas of investigation on examinations, interventions and outcomes with the pediatric population. Some of the highlights include early intervention outcomes and rehabilitation for Friedreich ataxia. An additional line of research involves constraint induced therapy with our collaborators at the National Rehabilitation Hospital for children with cerebral palsy and hemiparesis.