Dana Wild

Dana Wild, PhD, PT, PCS serves as the Associate Dean of Student Affairs at the School of Health Professions within the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). She holds an Associate Professor position in the Respiratory Care department. Dr. Wild earned both her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy and her PhD in Population Health Sciences-Rehabilitation Sciences from UTMB.

• Education: PhD in Population Health Sciences-Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch
• Education: Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy, University of Texas Medical Branch

Research Interests focus on pediatric physical therapy outcomes, particularly for children with cerebral palsy post-SPML surgery, and post-acute care following orthopedic procedures like total knee arthroplasty. Her work also examines the use of assistive devices in educational environments.

Publication Trends highlight expertise in pediatric rehabilitation, post-acute care systems, and assistive technology for mobility. Key themes include spastic diplegia, readmission metrics, and energy expenditure in schools.

Scientific Awards:

• Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy

Leadership & Teaching includes curriculum development for the UTMB Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and the PTA to DPT Bridge program. She has contributed to national pediatric clinical specialty standards through the ABPTS Specialty Academy of Content Experts.

Publications span peer-reviewed journals such as Pediatric Physical Therapy, Minimally Invasive Surgery, and Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Her 2020 work on SPML surgery programs and 2017 study on knee arthroplasty readmissions dominate citation metrics (h-index: 39, Scopus).