26th Scientific Inquiries in Physical Therapy Practice

Hardin-Simmons University’s Department of Physical Therapy (DPT) hosted the 26th Scientific Inquiries in Physical Therapy Practice on March 4, 2022. This yearly event marks the completion of DPT students’ on-campus education and proudly displays the future of physical therapy.  

The Department of Physical Therapy began this symposium 26 years ago with the goal to prepare students for the research process as professionals. Students are presented with various research topics by faculty and form small groups based on interest. The research process lasts 5 semesters. Prior to their professional presentation, students complete a literature review, submit their research proposal to the Institutional Research Board, conduct a pilot study, and collect and analyze data.

Physical Therapy is an ever-evolving field as it is evidence-based medicine; this requires professionals to stay up to date on the latest methods to provide optimal care for the patient as they consider the constant influx of new information. Through the research process, students can contribute to this wealth of innovation while learning about additional research from professionals in their field.  

The students often begin the research process unsure of its demands and daunted by statistics. However, as they develop important skills such as how to interpret results, conquer statistics, and how to apply their findings to their practice, their confidence grows exponentially. 

Dr. Janelle O’Connell, Dean of the College of Health Professions and Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy Program, spoke of student growth through research saying, “For me, watching the students learn the research process, including from their mistakes, and then understanding how challenging research can be is a true growth in maturity and professionalism. When the students work on their final presentations, everything comes together and you can see how proud they are of their work, and they better understand their research is important in the field of PT.”  

To conclude their research, the DPT Class of 2022 presented their findings to 225 individuals including physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and other healthcare professionals, along with friends and family members. Students presented on topics from rodeo injuries to complications related to hypermobility. Although the topics varied among the eight presentations, each one shared the same confidence and passion of the PT students as they presented their hard-earned research.