Christopher Wilson

Christopher Wilson is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the School of Health Sciences, Oakland University, where he also serves as Director of Clinical Education. He is board-certified in geriatric physical therapy by the American Physical Therapy Association and holds a DScPT and MPT from Oakland University, a DPT from the University of St. Augustine, and a BS in Health Science from Oakland University.

His research focuses on palliative care physical therapy, healthy aging in place, and the role of physical therapists in managing advanced cancers and chronic diseases. Key areas include home-based interventions for frail older adults, functional decline prevention, and interdisciplinary care in hospice and oncology settings.

Dr. Wilson has published extensively on palliative and geriatric physical therapy, with recurring themes across his work including patient-centered care, symptom management, and community-based rehabilitation. His research emphasizes preventive strategies, early intervention, and enhancing quality of life for individuals with life-limiting illnesses.

He was Guest Editor for a special issue of Rehabilitation Oncology on palliative care and is co-author of a chapter in Guccione’s Geriatric Physical Therapy. He leads the HOP-UP-PT research project, which has received over $240,000 in grant funding since 2015.

Dr. Wilson advises on clinical education and mentors future physical therapists, particularly in geriatrics and palliative care. He has been instrumental in developing curricula and competencies in palliative rehabilitation and has contributed to national conversations on expanding the role of physical therapists in end-of-life care.

He is actively involved with the

• American Physical Therapy Association
• Academy of Oncologic Physical Therapy
• Michigan Physical Therapy Association
• Beaumont Hospital

and integrates research, clinical practice, and education to advance the field of physical therapy for aging and seriously ill populations.