Jon Rizzo

Jon Rizzo serves as Associate Professor-in-Residence and Director of Clinical Education for the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program at the University of Connecticut, based in the Physical Therapy Program with office location in the Kinesiology Building on Storrs campus. His clinical background spans 13 years in orthopedic physical therapy, including a decade at UConn's Nayden Rehabilitation Clinic where he functioned as staff physical therapist and clinical instructor.

His educational credentials from UConn include:

• B.S. in Sport Science/Athletic Training (1998)
• B.S. in Allied Health (2001)
• M.S. in Physical Therapy (2002)
• M.A. in Adult Learning (2012)
• Ph.D. in Adult Learning (2015)

Research centers on orthopedic rehabilitation, clinical education dynamics, and patient adherence mechanisms, with particular focus on how patients' mental models influence compliance with home exercise programs. His interdisciplinary approach integrates adult learning theory into physical therapy practice, examining both biomechanical parameters (hip strength, spinal curvature) and psychosocial factors in rehabilitation outcomes.

Publication trends since 2008 reveal progressive specialization in clinical education challenges and adherence psychology, moving from foundational biomechanical studies toward complex analyses of instructor-student interactions and cognitive frameworks in rehabilitation. This evolution demonstrates growing emphasis on educational theory within physical therapy practice.

Dr. Rizzo maintains active professional engagement through certifications including Certified Athletic Trainer (NATA), Licensed Physical Therapist (CT), and Certified Clinical Instructor (APTA), though no scientific awards are documented. His advising role encompasses oversight of DPT clinical education and mentorship of physical therapy/athletic training students during clinical rotations.

He remains affiliated with UConn's Nayden Rehabilitation Clinic as part of his ongoing integration of clinical practice and academic instruction within the Physical Therapy Program.