Justin T. Mierzwicki

Justin T. Mierzwicki serves as a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Lebanon Valley College. Board Certified as a Geriatric Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist, he brings expertise in geriatric care, pathophysiology, and acute care settings. His research focuses on developing evidence-based physical therapy interventions for frail older adults, with emphasis on improving mobility, reducing social isolation, and enhancing quality of life through innovative approaches including telehealth and targeted exercise programs.

Dr. Mierzwicki's research program centers on geriatric physical therapy challenges, particularly addressing loneliness through telecommunication interventions and developing exercise protocols for pre-frail and frail populations. His work spans high-intensity resistance training, power training efficacy, and telehealth applications, with recent studies examining language barriers in care delivery and geriatric competency development in physical therapy education. The research demonstrates practical applications for community-dwelling older adults facing mobility limitations and social isolation.

Analysis of his publication record (2018-2025) reveals evolving research trends from foundational exercise studies toward pandemic-responsive telehealth applications. Early work focused on weighted vest training and resistance protocols, while recent publications increasingly address social determinants of health, particularly loneliness reduction through digital communication. His systematic reviews on power training and language barriers demonstrate methodological rigor, with consistent emphasis on translating research into clinical practice for vulnerable older adult populations.

Dr. Mierzwicki has received recognition including:

• APTA Pennsylvania Geriatric Special Interest Group Award of Excellence (2020)

As South-Central Delegate to the APTA House of Delegates (2024-2026), he influences professional policy while mentoring DPT students in research, evidenced by co-authorship on publications including the 2025 language barriers systematic review. His teaching portfolio includes Pathophysiology (PHT 614), Physical Therapy in the Inpatient Setting (PHT 635), Geriatric Physical Therapy (PHT 638), and Selected Topics in Physical Therapy (PHT 734), integrating his clinical expertise and research findings into curriculum development.