Our Physical Therapy Program is at the forefront of clinical education, providing students with access to cutting-edge technologies and meaningful research opportunities. From real-time muscle tracking to brain activity monitoring, our students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment while contributing to the evidence based physical therapy practice through original research.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
Noraxon Motion Analysis & EMG System
Students use Noraxon’s Ultium EMG and Motion systems to study functional movement with precision. This multi-modal system collects high-fidelity data on muscle activation and joint motion, allowing for natural, unrestricted movement during analysis. The integration of inertial measurement units (IMUs) enables simultaneous tracking of muscle activity and motion patterns.
Recent student-led research mentored by Dr. Edeer using Noraxon’s system, titled Effect of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation with Virtual Reality and Concurrent Feedback on Shoulder Muscle Activation, was published in the Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation (Feb. 2025).
Delsys Wireless EMG Biofeedback
Delsys EMG systems allow students to measure and analyze muscle activity during dynamic tasks. This technology supports applications in rehabilitation, sports performance, ergonomics, and biomechanics. Students use EMG biofeedback to understand timing, coordination, and intensity of muscle contractions.
A recent publication in World Journal of Methodology examined core muscle activation in response to external vs. internal cues using this system. The study was conducted by students and faculty researchers in collaboration.
Kinvent Force Plate
Our newest addition, the Kinvent Force Plate, helps quantify jump height and analyze impulse phases using countermovement and squat jump protocols. It plays a central role in studies exploring power output, muscular asymmetry, and strength ratios in athletic populations.
Three research groups from the Class of 2025 are currently using the force plate to evaluate performance metrics in competitive and clinical populations.
GAITRite Gait Analysis System
Used in student research for over a decade, the GAITRite® system captures walking patterns via a portable pressure-sensitive walkway. This technology helps assess temporal and spatial gait parameters and identify anomalies.
Past research includes studies on the impact of dual-tasking (e.g., texting or talking while walking, listening high volume music vs low volume music) on gait, with implications for fall risk assessment and preventive care strategies in physical therapy.
Wearable Sensing Wireless EEG (DSI-7)
Our EEG system, Wearable Sensing’s DSI-7, records brain activity in real-time through dry electrodes, offering superior comfort and signal quality. With a setup time of under one minute, it’s ideal for research on exercise-induced changes in brain states such as anxiety, relaxation, and cognitive engagement.
Students apply EEG analysis across various exercise protocols to explore mind-body connections in therapeutic contexts.
Flex Focus 400 EXP – Real-Time Ultrasound
Used in student research for over a decade, the GAITRite® system captures walking patterns via a portable pressure-sensitive walkway. This technology helps assess temporal and spatial gait parameters and identify anomalies.
Past research includes studies on the impact of dual-tasking (e.g., texting or talking while walking, listening high volume music vs low volume music) on gait, with implications for fall risk assessment and preventive care strategies in physical therapy.
Student Research
At the heart of our Doctor of Physical Therapy program is a commitment to evidence-based practice and hands-on discovery. Our students engage in original research exploring current questions in rehabilitation, human performance, clinical practice, and wellness. Many projects have been presented at national conferences or published in peer-reviewed journals, reflecting the depth and rigor of student-led inquiry.
Current Research Projects (Class of 2025)
Transverse Abdominis Activation Using Real-Time Ultrasound
Migdalia Berrio, Karina Borda, Nicole Kumar, Angelica Cuevas
Core Muscle Activation During Interactive Gaming
Young Kim, Sandy Osman, Justin Black
Polyvagal Exercises and Stress in DPT Students
Ariane Hasbrouck, Elise Kang, Kristin Miscia
Dynamic Thoracic Ring Dysfunction: Interrater Reliability Study
Alyssa Boudreau, Carlie Mullins, Sydney Kaplan
Cueing Strategies During Front Plank Exercise
Juliana Schraer, Jadyn Hermanns, Nicholas Soares
Interspinous Space Changes in Trunk Movements
Ebshoy Naam, Calvin Novak, Christopher Lubrano
Published Research
Our students regularly contribute to peer-reviewed literature, with recent publications including:
- “Effect of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation with Virtual Reality and Concurrent Feedback on Shoulder Muscle Activation” – Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation (2025)
- “Effect of External and Internal Cues on Core Muscle Activation During the Sahrmann Five-Level Core Stability Test” – World Journal of Methodology (2025)
- “Sensory Stimulation vs. Motor Control Cueing of the Foot on Balance in Elderly Females” – Advances in Aging Research (2019)
Conference Presentations
Our students consistently present their work at prestigious national conferences, including the Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) and New York Physical Therapy Association conferences. Recent presentations have covered topics ranging from virtual reality applications in rehabilitation to core stability assessment techniques.
Research Areas of Focus
Student research spans diverse areas of physical therapy practice:
Movement Analysis & Biomechanics:
Utilizing motion capture and EMG technology to understand human movement patterns
Neurological Rehabilitation
Exploring brain-body connections through EEG monitoring and movement interventions
Core Stability & Postural Control
Investigating optimal training strategies and assessment techniques
Technology Integration
Examining virtual reality, biofeedback, force plate and gaming applications in rehabilitation
Clinical Assessment
Developing and validating new measurement tools and treatment approaches
Sports Performance
Analyzing athletic movement patterns and injury prevention strategies
Fall Prevention
Assessing fall risks in adults and older adults, and implementing effective fall prevention strategies.
Public Health and Wellness
Promoting physical activity, ergonomics, and lifestyle modification.
Mentorship & Collaboration
Faculty mentorship ensures all research projects align with clinical relevance and scientific rigor. Students work closely with experienced researchers to develop study designs, analyze data, and disseminate findings through publications and presentations. This collaborative approach prepares graduates to be both skilled clinicians and evidence-based practitioners who can contribute to the profession’s advancing knowledge base.
Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders
Through hands-on experience with advanced technology and meaningful research opportunities, our students develop the critical thinking skills, technical expertise, and scientific mindset necessary to excel in today’s evidence-based healthcare environment. They graduate not just as competent clinicians, but as research-minded scientists ready to shape the future of physical therapy practice.
Program Options
Weekend DPT Program
Designed for working professionals, this flexible format meets eight alternate weekends per trimester (Friday–Sunday), offering the same high-quality education as traditional programs.
3+3 B.A. Biology + DPT
Earn both degrees in just six years through this accelerated pathway that combines undergraduate and graduate coursework.
MBA Pathway for DPT Students
DPT graduates can earn up to 12 MBA credits with advanced standing and no GMAT or application fee—perfect for those pursuing leadership in healthcare.