Alison H Chang

Alison H Chang serves as Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. Her clinical expertise centers on pathomechanics and management of lower extremity musculoskeletal conditions, with specialization in osteoarthritis rehabilitation and movement science.

Her educational credentials include:

• MS in Physical Therapy, Northwestern University (1996)
• DPT, MGH Institute of Health Professions (2006)
• PhD, Aalborg University (2024)

Dr. Chang's research program investigates the interplay between pain, gait neuro-mechanics, physical activity patterns, and disease progression in chronic knee conditions. Her work bridges biomechanical analysis with clinical rehabilitation to develop movement-based interventions that enhance walking quality and reduce pain. Key focus areas include:

• Temporal dynamics of physical activity and knee pain
• Biomechanical adaptations in osteoarthritis
• Frontal-plane joint mechanics during gait
• Imaging-based disease progression markers

Recent publications demonstrate her leadership in knee osteoarthritis research, combining ecological momentary assessment, advanced biomechanical modeling, and longitudinal imaging studies to establish evidence-based rehabilitation protocols.

Her scientific contributions are recognized through numerous awards:

• JAMA Network 'Most Read This Week' distinction (2020)
• Multiple Outstanding Reviewer awards from Arthritis Care & Research (2016-2020)
• John X. Thomas, Jr. Best Teachers of Feinberg Award (2018)
• Educational Technology Teaching Fellowship (2018)
• New Investigator Award, American College of Rheumatology (2008)

Dr. Chang actively shapes clinical practice through leadership roles in OARSI and ACR guidelines committees, while her editorial work for PTJ and Arthritis Care & Research advances methodological rigor in rehabilitation science. She maintains strong institutional ties through the Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (NUCATS) and professional service across rheumatology and physical therapy organizations.