Brett Neilson

Brett Neilson is an Assistant Professor and Assistant Program Director in the Department of Physical Therapy at Hawai'i Pacific University (HPU), within the Graduate College of Health Sciences. Based remotely from Seattle, WA, he also serves as Director of Admissions for the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program in Honolulu. His academic and clinical work bridges education, research, and patient care in physical therapy.

Dr. Neilson earned a DSc, DPT, and PT, reflecting advanced training in physical therapy and clinical science. His educational background underscores a strong foundation in evidence-based practice and clinical leadership.

His research and clinical interests center on musculoskeletal disorders, chronic and persistent pain, orthopedic manual therapy, and rehabilitation for conditions like knee osteoarthritis and low back pain. He integrates clinical expertise with academic teaching and research, emphasizing translational care and professional education. His work has contributed to multi-center randomized controlled trials, particularly in orthopedic rehabilitation.

Although specific publications are not listed, Dr. Neilson has published peer-reviewed research and presented at state, national, and international conferences, indicating active scholarly engagement in physical therapy and pain sciences.

• Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists
• Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy

Dr. Neilson has held leadership roles in the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), including Nominating Committee Chair for the Pain Special Interest Group, Delegate for APTA Washington, and service on the Board of Directors and nominating committees. He has also worked as a clinical trial coordinator for U.S. Air Force-related research and maintains a part-time clinical practice, demonstrating a commitment to both professional service and direct patient care. There is no information available about graduate students he may have advised or specific grants he has led.

While not affiliated with a named research lab or team in the provided text, Dr. Neilson's involvement with Evidence In Motion—an educational company for health professions—suggests collaboration with academic and clinical networks focused on advancing physical therapy education and practice.