June 29, 2004

Contact: Gordon Ovenshine: 724-738-4854; gordon.ovenshine@sru.edu

THIRTY SRU DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY STUDENTS TO PRESENT RESEARCH JULY 6

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Fitness for children with cerebral palsy, injury prevention and the effects of exercise on college athletes are just some of the research topics at Slippery Rock University’s Ninth Annual Graduate School of Physical Therapy Research Conference Tuesday [ July 6].

 Thirty SRU students will present papers, representing four semesters of study and underscoring an emphasis on research that many doctor of physical therapy programs can’t match, says SRU’s Dr. Mary Ann Holbein-Jenny, associate professor of physical therapy.

 SRU launched the first Doctor of Physical Therapy Program in Pennsylvania, third in the nation, she says. Students will present their research in Strain Behavioral Science Building.

 Research better prepares students for careers, because it gives them practical experience, Holbein-Jenny says, noting that many students go on to present their projects at state and national professional meetings.

  Other topics include balance and stability, and injuries to lower back, abdominal and hamstring muscles.

 Participating students are scheduled to graduate in 2005. After the research conference, they begin yearlong clinical internships.