My Takeaways from the Largest Physical Therapy Conference in the U.S.
Community. That was the overarching theme of my experience at the 2025 American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Combined Sections Meeting (CSM).
I attended Spelman College in Atlanta for my undergraduate studies and chose to take a gap year, working at multiple clinics with Team Rehabilitation. CSM provided me with a unique opportunity to reconnect with the support system I developed during that time.
Highlights from Duke DPT at the 2025 APTA Combined Sections Meeting
The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) recently hosted its 50th annual Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) in Houston from February 13 to 15. As the largest physical therapy conference in the U.S., CSM attracted thousands of practitioners, students, and professionals for a week of networking, learning, and professional development. The Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program was well represented at this event, showcasing the depth and breadth of the Duke DPT community.
Duke DPT Alumni Helping Revolutionize Postpartum Care
Duke University Health System has launched an innovative program that integrates physical therapy into postpartum care, addressing a gap identified by physical therapists and obstetricians. This program, which combines inpatient and telehealth services, aims to support new mothers' recovery and has gained national recognition for its comprehensive approach.
Performing Arts and Physical Therapy: Combining Passions to Form a Career
Before joining Duke University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, I was a ballet dancer for regional dance companies along the East Coast. In several companies, we had the good fortune of having physical therapists provide care when needed most.
New IT Analyst Khalil Barnett Joins DPT and OTD Programs to Support Student Technology Needs
When students have questions about technology, they have a reliable expert to consult. Khalil Barnett, IT analyst, has recently joined our Doctor of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Doctorate programs to support student needs.
Research Seminar Addresses Neuroplasticity to Optimize Rehabilitation and Return to Sport After ACL Injury
Duke recently hosted Dustin Grooms, PhD, ATC, a professor from Ohio University, for an insightful presentation on the role of neuroplasticity in rehabilitation following ACL injury.
Dr. LaShawn Engages Duke Divinity Fellows in Health Promotion within the Black Church
On January 14, 2025, Teoma LaShawn, PT, DPT, MDiv, led an engaging session with Fellows in the Office of Black Church Studies at Duke Divinity School. Dr. LaShawn shared insights on the benefits of collaborating with physical therapists to promote health within the Black Church context. She highlighted how physical therapists and clergy can work together to leverage the unique strengths of Black congregations—such as trust, community, and support—to address health disparities within the African American community.
Teoma LaShawn, PT, DPT, MDiv, Named 2025 ADVANCE-UP Scholar
The School of Medicine Office for Faculty recently announced that Teoma LaShawn, PT, DPT, MDiv, has been selected as a 2025 ADVANCE-UP Scholar. She recently began the Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Faculty Development Residency program. This honor recognizes Dr. LaShawn's exceptional physical therapy contributions and dedication to fostering academic diversity and inclusion.
Exploring a Future in Physical Therapy: Highlights from Duke DPT’s Open House
On January 3, the Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program welcomed admitted students and their guests to campus for an admissions Open House.
Cutting Edge Research Featured in Rehab Seminar Series
The Duke Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation Research Group completed the fall 2024 dates of its Seminar Series with three insightful lectures that highlighted cross-institution collaboration and knowledge sharing.