معرفی
Dr. Amy Thiessen serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Oklahoma City University (OCU), where she joined full-time faculty in 2018. Her expertise spans neurological rehabilitation, gross anatomy instruction, and interdisciplinary healthcare education.
Her educational credentials include:
- PhD in Biomedical Education, University of Oklahoma (2018)
- MS in Adult and Continuing Education, University of Oklahoma (2003)
- BSPT, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (1997)
- APTA Neurologic Clinical Specialist Certification (2005, 2015)
- RESNA Assistive Technology Practitioner (2004)
Dr. Thiessen's research centers on neurological rehabilitation for Multiple Sclerosis patients, with significant contributions to telemedicine applications in physical therapy. Her clinical work at OMRF's MS Center of Excellence involved developing interdisciplinary spasticity management programs and Lokomat robotic gait training. Current scholarly interests focus on stress management in healthcare students and innovative interdisciplinary learning environments that bridge clinical practice and academic instruction.
Her awards highlight exceptional contributions to neurorehabilitation:
- Labe C. Scheinberg Award for Best Work in Neuro Rehabilitation (2017)
- National MS Society Volunteer of the Year (2015)
- APTA Specialist Question Writer appointment (2020)
She secured a National MS Society pilot grant (2013-2014) to validate telehealth physical therapy efficacy for MS patients, demonstrating her commitment to expanding access to specialized rehabilitation services. Her clinical service spans inpatient/outpatient rehabilitation settings with expertise in balance, mobility, and assistive technology solutions for neurological impairments.
As a key member of OMRF's Multiple Sclerosis Center of Excellence since 2011, she developed comprehensive long-term rehabilitation protocols addressing all MS stages while collaborating with neurologists, occupational therapists, and speech pathologists in integrated care teams.
