Chris L. Wells

Dr. Chris L. Wells is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science. She also serves as a Clinical Cardiopulmonary Specialist at the University of Maryland Medical Center, focusing on critical care patient mobility and staff development.

• Education: BS in Health, Physical Education & Athletic Training (1985, West Chester University), BS in Physical Therapy (1991, Stockton State College), MS in Physical Therapy (1994, University of Pittsburgh), PhD in Education (2002, University of Pittsburgh)

Dr. Wells specializes in cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation, with research centered on the impact of early rehabilitation and nutrition on critically ill patients. Her work also explores functional recovery in older adults following trauma or illness, particularly through collaborations with nursing teams on Function Focused Care and early mobility interventions.

Recent publications highlight her focus on acute care physical therapy, trauma recovery, and geriatric rehabilitation. Themes include optimizing mobility outcomes, overcoming systemic therapy barriers, and improving discharge planning for older trauma patients.

• Scientific Awards: American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Board Certification as a Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Clinical Specialist (1999)

Dr. Wells actively contributes to clinical practice, education, and research, integrating cardiopulmonary rehabilitation into critical care settings. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with nursing, to advance functional recovery protocols for vulnerable populations.