Research & Labs

Overview

San Diego State University Doctor of Physical Therapy Program faculty members have diverse backgrounds and research expertise. The faculty contribute to the scientific foundation of physical therapy practice by conducting innovative studies that improve understanding of human movement, physical function, and disability across the lifespan. Program faculty also collaborate with other scientists, clinicians and organizations, including those within the SDSU School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, as well as regionally and nationally, to conduct interdisciplinary and translational research. Faculty research is supported by several core laboratories located on the SDSU campus.

External funding for faculty research comes from a variety of sources including the National Institutes of Health, US Army Medical Research and Materiel Command, the Department of Defense, and the Foundation for Physical Therapy. Our faculty regularly presents their research findings in scientific publications and at local and national conferences.

Faculty Research Interests and Laboratories

Dr Domingo helping someone walk

PG 181

The goal of the Dr. Domingo’s research is to elucidate the best methods for locomotor rehabilitation after neurological injury using principles of biomechanics, motor learning and motor control, as well as using technology to improve health in disabled populations.

Dr Gombatto conducting research

PG 181

Dr. Gombatto’s research is focused on examining the mechanisms underlying chronic-recurrent low back pain, with the goal of primary and secondary prevention.

Dr Maluf conducting research

ENS 213

The goal of the Applied Sensorimotor Research Laboratory is to identify mechanisms underlying psychomotor responses to stress and pain, and to apply this knowledge to the prevention and treatment of chronic pain disorders.

Dr Rauh Running experiement

ENS Annex 001A

The goal of the Running and Sports Injury Prevention and Research Laboratory is to identify the distributions and determinants of injury in sport and military populations.

Dr. Tuttle conducting research

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The Pelvic Health and Rehabilitation Laboratory is focused on understanding the role of muscle and other support structures during both normal movement and pelvic floor dysfunction.

Want to Participate in our Research?

There are many ways to help with our research. Feel free to apply to be a research assistant or to sign up for our research participant opportunities

Contact Us

SDSU Physical Therapy

Exercise and Nutritional Sciences Building 141
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA, 92182-7251