Adrianna Laprea Ellis

Dr. Adrianna Laprea Ellis is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), affiliated with the School of Health Professions. Her work bridges clinical expertise with academic leadership in geriatric and neurological rehabilitation.

• Education: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Nova Southeastern University (2007); Certified Geriatric Specialist (2011)

Dr. Ellis focuses on rehabilitation outcomes for adults with neurological deficits, particularly in falls prevention, posture and gait analysis, and heterogeneity in patient populations. Her recent research emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in interprofessional healthcare education and interventions for hyperkyphosis in older adults.

Her articles highlight trends in geriatric physical therapy, neurological rehabilitation for stroke patients, and DEI initiatives in academic healthcare settings. Key methodologies include gait analysis, clinical outcome assessments, and mixed-methods studies.

• Scientific Awards: School of Health Professions' Junior Faculty Excellence Award (2015); Recognition from the American Physical Therapy Association

At UTMB, Dr. Ellis supervises patient care at the St. Vincent’s pro-bono clinic and leads student recruitment initiatives. She has taught hybrid online and on-site courses since 2014, including Bridge Neurotherapeutic Rehabilitation and Medical Spanish for Healthcare Professionals.