Neurologic Physical Therapy with Assoc. Prof. Elizabeth Clark, DPT, EdD

Jul 4, 2022

Assoc. Prof. Elizabeth Clark, DPT, EdD, is a Neurologic Physical Therapist specializing in neurorehabilitation and brain injury recovery. She discusses how the brain can heal after major injuries and the fascinating principles of neuroplasticity that guide rehabilitation. Dr. Clark shares a compelling case study of a young police officer regaining mobility, emphasizing the importance of motivation and effective therapy techniques. She also explores the role of technology in enhancing rehabilitation strategies and the importance of stress management for professionals in the field.

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INSIGHT

Brain's Resilience

Catastrophic brain injuries profoundly change lives, affecting independence and basic functions.
Despite this, the brain's ability to heal and adapt is remarkable, offering hope for recovery.

ADVICE

Becoming a Physical Therapist

Aspiring physical therapists should have a passion for math and science.
A doctoral degree and continuing education are essential for this career path.

INSIGHT

Neuroplasticity and Motor Learning

Motor learning theories, derived from child development and athlete training, guide neuroplasticity.
Combining these theories with neuroscience helps refine interventions for improved patient outcomes.

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How to help the brain heal after a catastrophic brain injury? What helps people relearn how to walk or use their hands after a stroke? How do principles of neurorehabilitation explain our brain's ability to restore its function? Find the answers to these and many other intriguing questions by listening to our Neurocareers podcast guest, Neurologic Physical Therapist Assoc. Prof. Elizabeth Clark, DPT, EdD! Dr. Clark will share with you her experience in the field of Neurologic Physical Therapy and its relation to neuroscience. Dr. Clark will also share a one-of-a-kind experience helping a severely compromised patient with brain injury to start walking again.

During this episode, you will learn about:

[00:00] Episode intro and a quick bio of today’s guest

[01:20] Meet Assoc. Prof. Elizabeth Clark, and know a bit about where she’s joining us from

[02:30] What was Elizabeth’s influence to become a physical therapist

[10:16] What it took for Dr. Clark to become a physical therapist

[16:54] Why the length of time was the most challenging part of Dr. Clark’s journey to becoming a physical therapist

[17:31] Apart from physical therapy, Dr. Clark also studied leadership

[23:52] How was her fascination with the brain and neuroplasticity developing at that time

[27:43] A case scenario where Dr. Clark witnessed the nervous system restructure itself

[32:45] An angle of neuroscience Dr. Clark puts more emphasis on when teaching students physical therapy

[41:27] How Dr. Clark has integrated computer interface in her therapy work and the future plans she has

[51:59] The future of physical therapy and technology application

[56:36] Approaches Dr. Clark recommends to reduce academic stress among students

[01:03:24] Secrets to making an impossible goal possible

[01:05:49] How you can reach out, connect, and know more about Dr. Clark’s research projects

[01:06:27] Episode wrap-up and calls to action

Notable Quotes:

● Anyone thinking of physical therapy as a career should have a strong interest in maths, science, and a bit of psychology.

● No amount of money will give you fulfillment in your career if your work is not in line with your passion.

● As a physical therapist, you must love learning because that’s what you will do for the rest of your life.

● The brain is made of so many possibilities. The more we learn, the more we understand, and the more we are able to refine our interventions.

● Persistence in what you do leads to tremendous success.

● Don’t necessarily see challenges as roadblocks. Rather, see them as opportunities to learn.

About the Podcast Guest:

Dr. Clark is an Associate Professor of Physical Therapy at AdventHealth University. She received her bachelor’s degree in biology from the State University of New York.

To find out more about Dr. Clark and the work she does, visit:

https://www.ahu.edu/faculty/elizabeth-clark.

To get in touch with Dr. Clark, send your inquiry to: Elizabeth.Clark@ahu.edu.

About the Podcast Host:

The Neurocareers podcast is brought to you by The Institute of Neuroapproaches (https://www.neuroapproaches.org/) and its founder, Milena Korostenskaja, Ph.D. (Dr. K), a neuroscience educator, research consultant, and career coach for people in neuroscience and neurotechnologies. As a professional coach with a background in the field, Dr. K understands the unique challenges and opportunities job applicants face in this field and can provide personalized coaching and support to help you succeed.

Here's what you'll get with one-on-one coaching sessions from Dr. K:

Identification and pursuit of career goals
Guidance on job search strategies, resume, and cover letter development
Neurotech / neuroscience job interview preparation and practice
Networking strategies to connect with professionals in the field of neuroscience and neurotechnologies
Ongoing support and guidance to help you stay on track and achieve your goals

You can always schedule a free neurocareer consultation/coaching session with Dr. K at https://neuroapproaches.as.me/free-neurocareer-consultation

Subscribe to our Nerocareers Newsletter to stay on top of all our cool neurocareers news at updates https://www.neuroapproaches.org/neurocareers-news