Physical Therapy Faculty

Dr. Tracy Porter headshot

Tracy Porter, PT, DPT, EdD

Associate Professor of Physical Therapy
Chair of KSPT
DPT Program Director

portert@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: professionalism and ethics, cultural competence, pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of temporomandibular joint dysfunction

Allie Barnes headshot

Allie Barnes, PTA, MHA

Assistant Professor of Practice and Assistant Director of Clinical Education
Krannert School of Physical Therapy

barnesaa@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: neurological rehabilitation, aquatic therapy, acute care, health and wellness

Background

Allie Barnes is a graduate from the UIndy PTA program. Upon graduation she practiced in a hospital setting with her area of expertise focusing on neurology, aquatic, and acute care. In 2022, Allie joined KSPT teaching neurological rehabilitation within the PTA program along with organizing clinical placements for students. Allie is passionate about holistic health and wellness and enjoys incorporating this into her work.

Research Interests

Health and wellness, PTA education

Education

  • MHA, Healthcare Administration, University of Indianapolis
  • BS, Psychology, University of Indianapolis
  • PTA, University of Indianapolis

Fun Fact

I enjoy traveling to different National Parks to hike. My goal is to visit every National Park in the United States.

Favorite Thing about UIndy

I love how at UIndy you are a person, not just a number.

Dr. Frank Bates headshot

Frank Bates, PT, DPT, MBA

Assistant Professor, Krannert School of Physical Therapy
Program Director, Physical Therapist Assistant Program
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy
Certified Exercise Expert for Aging Adults
Certified Fall Prevention Specialist
Certified, Selective Functional Movement Assessment

batesf@uindy.edu

Area of Expertise: interprofessional education, health promotion and wellness, clinical leadership, orthopedic rehabilitation (TMJ/TMD, headaches, neck, shoulder, hip, knee), gerontological rehabilitation

Background

Dr. Bates has two decades of experience as a physical therapist in hospital ambulatory and private practice (general orthopedics), including additional experiences in clinic management, acute care, skilled rehabilitation facilities, and home health. He is a Board-Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist and a Certified Exercise Expert for Aging Adults. Dr Bates also has more than a decade of teaching experience in physical therapy education (PTA and DPT), including experiences as program director and clinical education director, as well as additional teaching experiences in occupational therapy. He has published and presented at international, national, and state conferences on topics of interprofessional and interprofessional education, online pedagogy, and older adult community wellness programming. In 2019, he was awarded the FA Davis Outstanding Physical Therapist Assistant Educator Award by the APTA.

Research Interests

interprofessional education, online pedagogy, health coaching to promote wellness habits in older adults and for chronic disease management, treatment for TMJ/TMD and headaches

Education

  • DPT, Physical Therapy, Chatham University
  • MBA, Business Administration, Cleveland State University
  • MPT, Physical Therapy, Marquette University
  • BA, Psychology, Marquette University

Fun Fact

I started briskly walking after dinner for an hour each night shortly after the start of the pandemic . It started as an excuse to get out of the house and do something, and it's now something I look forward to every night.

Favorite Thing about UIndy

Seeing the impact of the motto "Education for Service."

Dr. Jim Bellew headshot

James W. Bellew, PT, EdD, MS

Professor
Krannert School of Physical Therapy

bellewj@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: electrophysical agents, physiology

Background

Dr. Jim Bellew is a Professor of Physical Therapy in the Krannert School of Physical Therapy at the University of Indianapolis. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Marquette University and Master of Science Degree in Orthopedic Physical Therapy and Doctor of Education in Exercise Physiology from the University of Kentucky. Dr. Bellew has published more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts and abstracts in the areas of biophysical agents, muscle physiology, and exercise training. He is the co-author of the textbook Modalities for Therapeutic Intervention 7th ed. He teaches in the areas of clinical medicine, therapeutic modalities, and human physiology. He serves as a manuscript reviewer for more than a dozen scientific journals and is a regular presenter at the APTA's Combined Sections Meetings. Dr. Bellew is routinely sought nationally and internationally for consultation regarding clinical applications of electrotherapeutic agents.

Honors & Awards

Dr. Bellew was the recipient of the 2019 Award of Excellence for outstanding contributions to the field of electrotherapy from the Academy of Clinical Electrophysiology and Wound Management of the American Physical Therapy Association. In 2024, Dr. Bellew received the Award of Excellence for Academic Teaching from the Academy of Clinical Electrophysiology and Wound Management.

Research Interests

Biophysical effects of electrical currents on skeletal muscle force

See James Bellew's Research & Publications

Education

  • EdD, Exercise Physiology, University of Kentucky
  • MS, Physical Therapy, University of Kentucky
  • BS, Physical Therapy, Marquette University

Fun Fact

I am a huge fan of college basketball.

Favorite Thing about UIndy

The ability to contribute to the development of future healthcare providers.

Dr. Kristin Bojrab headshot

Kristin Bojrab, PT, DPT

Assistant Professor of Practice
Assistant Director of Clinical Education
Krannert School of Physical Therapy
Wound Care Certified, Diabetic Wound Certified, Fellow, American College of Clinical Wound Specialists

bojrabk@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: wound care, acute care. rehabilitation of individuals with amputation

Dr. Lora Dingledine headshot

Lora Dingledine, PT, DPT, Cert. MDT

Assistant Professor of Practice and Director of Clinical Education
Krannert School of Physical Therapy

dingledinel@uindy.edu

Area of Expertise: clinical education, orthopedic physical therapy, rehabilitation of individuals with amputation

Background

Dr. Lora Dingledine received her DPT in 2013 and has consistently practiced in outpatient orthopedics since. She specializes in the Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy Approach to patient treatments and enjoys working with individuals experiencing limb loss or limb difference. As Director of Clinical Education, Lora supports DPT students in their clinical rotations, ensuring students have exceptional learning experiences. Lora joined the KSPT team in 2022 and teaches clinical skills, amputee/prosthetics, and the clinical seminar series.

Research Interests

Amputees/prosthetics, Clinical Education Program Development

Education

  • DPT, Physical Therapy, Indiana University Purdue University 
  • BS, Music Education, Ball State University 

Fun Fact

I enjoy outdoor activities and tap dancing with the Circle City Tap Company

Favorite Thing about UIndy

The support you receive from everyone you meet.

Dr. Julie Gahimer headshot

Julie Gahimer, PT, HSD

Professor
Krannert School of Physical Therapy

jgahimer@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: health promotion, instruction design, neurological rehabilitation

Background

Dr. Gahimer has received numerous awards for her role in community leadership and service learning, including the University of Indianapolis Teacher of the Year award in 2012. She has presented at many international, national and local professional meetings and has authored multiple publications in the areas of patient education and community health education.

Research Interests

Community health education, online teaching and learning, service learning

See Julie Gahimer's Research & Publications

Education

  • HSD, Indiana University
  • MS, Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis
  • BS, Physical Therapy, St. Louis University

Fun Fact

I have three daughters who were recently on three different continents in the same month.

Favorite Thing about UIndy

I love the fact that I can work at a place where the people are so friendly, the environment is one of hospitality and the motto is "education for service."

Dr. Jill Henderzahs-Mason headshot

Jill Henderzahs-Mason, PT, DPT, DHSc

Assistant Professor
Krannert School of Physical Therapy
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy

henderzahsmasonj@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: wellness and health promotion, geriatrics, orthopedic physical therapy

Dr. Ed Jones headshot

Ed Jones, PT, DHSc

Associate Professor
Interim Chair of Krannert School of Physical Therapy
Interim Program Director of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy

joneser@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: orthopedic physical therapy, foot and ankle dysfunction, sports medicine

Background

Dr. Jones has been a part of the Krannert School of Physical Therapy faculty since 2007 and is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist. He teaches Rehabilitative Agents courses and teaches in the clinical skills, clinical medical, and musculoskeletal sequences in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. With over 20 years of experience as a clinician, Dr. Jones maintains an active clinical practice, primarily working with an outpatient orthopedic population with a clinical interest in foot and ankle dysfunction. He also has experience treating those with complex medical conditions in acute care and neurological rehabilitation settings.

Research Interests

Manual therapy interventions, foot and ankle dysfunction and biomechanics, predicting injury and successful return to athletic competition following injury

Education

  • DHSc, University of Indianapolis
  • MS, Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis
  • BS, Therapeutic Recreation, Indiana State University

Fun Fact

I am an avid baseball fan and hope to visit all MLB stadiums.

Favorite Thing about UIndy

The faculty engagement with students as future colleagues provides a truly unique atmosphere for learning.

Dr. Kathy Martin headshot

Kathy Martin, PT, DHSc

Professor
Krannert School of Physical Therapy

kmartin@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: pediatric physical therapy, Down syndrome, pediatric physical therapy education

Background

Dr. Martin has more than 30 years of experience as a physical therapist in diverse practice settings with primary expertise in early intervention and acute care in pediatrics. She has been very active in the American Physical Therapy Association's (APTA) Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy, including several leadership positions and involvement with a task force to develop recommendations for teaching pediatric physical therapy in DPT programs. Previously, Martin received the Fran Ekstam Award from the Indiana Chapter of APTA, which is the highest award given and which recognizes outstanding contribution through scholarship, teaching, and service to the profession.

Honors & Awards

Dr. Martin was the recipient of the 2020 Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy's Bud De Haven Award for outstanding service.

Research Interests

Children with hypotonia, orthotic efficacy for children, and Down syndrome

See Kathy Martin's Research & Publications

Education

  • DHS, Pediatric Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis
  • MS, Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis
  • BA, Athletic Training, Purdue

Fun Fact

I am a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts of the USA and love all outdoor activities, especially camping.

Favorite Thing about UIndy

The camaraderie and family feel to the campus. Faculty genuinely care for each other and the students!

Dr. Taylor Poe headshot

Taylor Poe, PT, DPT

Assistant Professor of Practice
Krannert School of Physical Therapy
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy

poet@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: neurologic physical therapy, spinal cord injury, acute care

Dr. Brett Rice headshot

Brett Rice, PT, DPT, NCS

Assistant Professor of Practice
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy
Krannert School of Physical Therapy

riceb@uindy.edu

Area of Expertise: neurologic physical therapy, stroke and traumatic brain injury

Background

Dr. Rice is a board-certified neurologic clinical specialist and has experience as a physical therapist in the acute care and inpatient rehabilitation settings. His clinical interests include neurosurgical intensive care, stroke rehabilitation, and clinical education.

Research Interests

High Intensity gait training, Neuroplasticity, and clinical education for DPT students

Education

  • DPT, Physical Therapy, University of Indianapolis
  • BS, Chemistry, University of Indianapolis

Fun Fact

I enjoy traveling and spending time with my nephews.

Favorite Thing about UIndy

The culture and inclusiveness

Dr. Paul Salamh headshot

Paul Salamh, PT, DPT, PhD

Associate Professor
Krannert School of Physical Therapy

salamhp@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: orthopedic physical therapy, shoulder pathology, sports medicine

Background

Dr. Salamh has maintained a distinct research and clinical presence in the area of orthopedics and sports medicine. He was the first Faculty Development Resident in the United States, completing a two-year residency at Duke University in 2016. He maintains an active scholarly agenda with over 50 peer reviewed publications, has co-authored a four-volume textbook on therapeutic exercises along with multiple chapter contributions to orthopedic related textbooks. Dr. Salamh was recently appointed the Associated Editor of Physiotherapy Theory and Practice.

Honors & Awards

Dr. Salamh received the 2011 President's Volunteer Service Award from the Obama Administration, the 2013 Achievement of Distinction-Outstanding Research Manuscript Award from the APTA Sports Section, the 2017 Duke University Alumni Emerging Leader Award, the 2018 UIndy Emerging Scholar Award, and the 2020 Editorial Excellence Award from the NSCA Strength and Conditioning Journal.

Research Interests

Diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of musculoskeletal conditions related to the shoulder; identification of risk factors associated with musculoskeletal injuries among athletes; and the influence of Ramadan on athletes

See Paul Salamh's Research and Publications

Education

  • PhD, Physical Therapy, Nova Southeastern University
  • DPT, Physical Therapy, Duke University
  • BS, Health Sciences, Lock Haven University

Fun Fact

My wife, three children, and I love to be outdoors and enjoy frequent trips to Walt Disney World.

Favorite Thing about UIndy

The collegial atmosphere among faculty, staff, and students as well as the small class sizes

Dr. Ciera Ward headshot

Ciera Ward, PT, DPT

Assistant Professor of Practice
Krannert School of Physical Therapy
Board Certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist
Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification

cmward@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: pelvic health physical therapy, gynecological and breast oncology, trauma-informed care

Dr. Doug Walker headshot

Doug Walker, PT, DPT

Assistant Professor
Krannert School of Physical Therapy
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy

walkerdh@uindy.edu

Areas of Expertise: orthopedic physical therapy, exercise mechanics/biomechanics

Background

Dr. Walker is a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedic physical therapy and a certified strength and conditioning specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He has extensive experience both as a clinician and as a personal trainer. He maintains an active clinical practice in the outpatient orthopedic setting.

Research Interests

Manual therapy

Education

  • DPT, Physical Therapy, Franklin Pierce University
  • BS, Physical Education, Northern Arizona University

Fun Fact

I love spending time with my wife and three children.

Favorite Thing about UIndy

The collegial atmosphere

Franci Dilk headshot

Franci Dilk

Administrative Assistant
Krannert School of Physical Therapy

dilkf@uindy.edu