Julia Castleberry

Julia Castleberry is an Associate Professor of Physical Therapy at Emory & Henry University’s School of Health Sciences. She holds a DHSc from Radford University-Carilion (2021) and has over 30 years of clinical and academic experience in neurology, geriatrics, and oncology. Her work focuses on falls prevention, lymphedema therapy, and stroke rehabilitation. She co-founded the Falls Prevention Center, emphasizing lifespan wellness and community programs. Castleberry serves on numerous professional boards, including the American Physical Therapy Association’s Neurology Section and Brain Injury Services of Southwest Virginia. She is a certified Dementia Practitioner, Lymphedema Therapist, and LSVT-BIG provider.

Education:

• Doctor of Health Science (DHSc), Radford University-Carilion (2021)
• Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (t-DPT), Virginia Commonwealth University (2011)
• Master of Science in Physical Therapy, Duke University (1993)
• Bachelor of Science in Biology, Virginia Tech (1990)

Research & Professional Contributions: Castleberry leads studies on falls prevention, chronic disease management, and telehealth for veterans with brain injuries. Her funded projects include a study on Appalachian Trail hikers’ health and a longitudinal program for Parkinson’s, MS, and obesity patients. She has authored peer-reviewed articles, presented nationally, and developed educational programs like the CLiC-Wounded Warrior initiative.

Teaching & Service: She teaches courses in neuroscience, neuromuscular therapy, and rural health. She chairs curricular committees and interprofessional education initiatives at Emory & Henry. Her roles in professional organizations include leadership in the Virginia Physical Therapy Association and APTA Neurology Section.