DPT Newsroom

October marks National Physical Therapy Month—a time to celebrate and recognize the exceptional work of our Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs), educators, and researchers who are advancing the field every day. 

The Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is proud to announce the featured speakers for two cornerstone events in 2026. Dr. Megan Donaldson, PT, PhD, FAAOMPT, Chair of Rehabilitation Sciences at MUSC and President of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists, will present the Eleanor Branch Lecture on Friday, May 8. A leader in education, clinical practice, and service, Dr. Donaldson’s lecture will inspire reflection and forward-thinking among students, faculty, and staff.

Dr. Kyle Covington, PT, DPT, PhD, associate professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and director of Post-Professional Education and Educational Innovation in the Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program, was recently honored as a guest of the Taiwan Physical Therapy Association in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Dr. Covington also serves as President of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

In celebration of National Encouragement Day, students from Duke’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) programs came together for an afternoon of creativity, connection, and camaraderie. The event was co-hosted by Duke LeWell and the Duke DPT program, offering a refreshing opportunity for students to pause, reflect, and support one another.

Dr. Todd Cade, PT, PhD, FAPTA, professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and division chief of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, was recently part of a team interviewed by Maggie Newland of CBS17 to discuss a new therapy for Barth syndrome. This rare genetic disorder affects heart and muscle function. With nearly 20 years of experience studying the condition, Dr.

Dr. Adam Goode, PT, DPT, PhD, professor of orthopaedic surgery at Duke University and president of the Association of Rheumatology Professionals (ARP), is spearheading Rheumatic Disease Awareness Month (RDAM) 2025 with a strong message: physical activity is a powerful yet underutilized tool in managing rheumatic conditions.

The Interdisciplinary Rehabilitation Research Seminar Series welcomed Brian Pietrosimone, PhD, ATC, to Duke on August 27 for a compelling presentation titled “Biomechanical Path to Osteoarthritis Following Knee Injury and a GAIT-way to Improved Outcomes.” Dr. Pietrosimone is a professor in the Department of Exercise Science, Director of the Motion Science Institute (MSI), and Co-Director of the Sports Medicine Institute.

We’re excited to welcome Nicholas LeBlond, PT, DPT, ATC, LAT, OCS, FAAOMPT, to the Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy program! A proud Duke DPT alumnus, Nick brings a deep passion for sports physical therapy, mentorship, and the Duke community. Let’s hear from him directly:

The Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) Class of 2028 gathered at the Mary Duke Biddle Trent Semans Center for Health Education to kick off their academic journey with a warm and inspiring welcome from leaders across the Duke School of Medicine.

As the Fall 2025 semester begins, Duke Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) student Alvin So shares his inspiring journey from international fencing competitions to the classroom and clinic. Featured in a conversation with Duke School of Medicine Dean Mary Klotman, MD, Alvin reflects on how a serious injury—and the care he received during recovery—sparked his passion for physical therapy.