WKU Mobility Clinic Research

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Mobility Clinic Research

The WKU Doctor of Physical Therapy Mobility Clinic is committed to advancing the profession of physical therapy through research, scholarship, and evidence-based practice. As an extension of the WKU Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, the Mobility Clinic serves as a resource for faculty- and student-led research aimed at improving physical therapy practice, physical therapy education, patient outcomes, and the delivery of rehabilitation services. Research conducted through the clinic is designed to generate meaningful evidence that advances the profession while enhancing the educational experiences of future physical therapists and students. All research activities conducted through the Mobility Clinic are reviewed and approved by the appropriate Institutional Review Board (IRB) prior to participant recruitment or data collection.

Individuals who participate in services through the Mobility Clinic may be informed of research opportunities for which they may be eligible based on the specific inclusion and exclusion criteria of an approved study. Participation in research is entirely voluntary and is not a requirement for receiving services through the Mobility Clinic. Choosing not to participate in a research study will not affect an individual's ability to receive services at the clinic.

Before participating in any research study, all eligible individuals will be provided an informed consent. This process will explain the purpose of the study, what participation involves, potential risks and benefits, confidentiality protections, and the participant's right to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.

Collaborate With Us

The WKU DPT Mobility Clinic welcomes opportunities to collaborate with faculty across Western Kentucky University on research projects that align with the clinic's mission. Faculty members interested in utilizing the clinic as a research site or recruiting participants for IRB-approved studies are encouraged to contact the Clinic Director, Vance Pounders (robert.pounders@wku.edu), to discuss potential collaborations and determine how the Mobility Clinic can support their research initiatives.

Current Research Projects

Title: The Development and Impact of a Student-Run Mobility Clinic

IRB Status: Pending (will be updated prior to the start of data collection)

Faculty Investigators: Principal Investigator: Beth Norris, PhD, PT, OCS; Co-Principal Investigators: Vance Pounders, PT, DPT, MS, NCS; Ashton McPherson, PT, DPT, PCS; and Anthony Mancini, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT

Student Investigators: Hayden Ash, SPT; Garren Duckworth, SPT; and Lexie Hawkins, SPT