On Wednesday, November 6, Pacific Northwest University (PNWU) hosted our inaugural Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Research Symposium. The event highlighted the innovative contributions of PNWU’s DPT students toward advancing healthcare in rural and medically underserved communities.
The symposium featured presentations from 25 PNWU DPT students, who shared their research on a diverse range of topics, which focused on improving health outcomes for populations with limited access to care. The research topics aligned with PNWU’s mission to create lasting change in the health of underserved communities and offered a glimpse into the future of physical therapy practice and education.
One standout presentation was hosted by Student Doctor Lindsey Carpenter, a member of the School of PT’s Class of 2025, who, alongside fellow Student Doctors Grace Lynds and Chad Simonson, presented research on the effectiveness of high-intensity circuit training for people living with Parkinson’s disease. Under the guidance of Dr. Tiffany Salido and mentors Drs. Chuck Martin and Ron Walser, their research explored how exercise and social engagement can enhance mobility and independence for those battling the progressive neurological disorder.
“I hope our research will significantly enhance people’s quality of life.”
“I hope our research will significantly enhance people’s quality of life by improving mobility and independence,” said Student Dr. Carpenter. “I see this study as a steppingstone for future research that can further explore the benefits of exercise and social engagement for those living with Parkinson’s disease.”
The DPT Research Symposium not only provided a platform for students to present their research, but underscored the real-world impact of their work.
From innovative rehabilitation methods to exploring the integration of physical therapy in primary care settings, the presentations demonstrated our students’ commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by underserved populations. The event marked an exciting milestone for PNWU, and a glimpse into the future of physical therapy, where research, collaboration, and a commitment to service continue to drive positive change.
