معرفی
Kory Zimney is an Associate Professor at the University of South Dakota in the School of Health Sciences, Department of Physical Therapy. He also serves as the Program Director of the PhD in Health Sciences program and is a Senior Faculty member with Evidence in Motion (EIM). His affiliations include the Therapeutic Neuroscience Research Group and the USD Center for Brain and Behavior Research, where he focuses on pain neuroscience education, therapeutic alliance, and evidence-based practice for orthopedic injuries of the spine and extremities. His career spans clinical practice, research, and education, with prior experience in community-based hospitals across inpatient, outpatient, and rehabilitation settings.
- PhD in Physical Therapy, Nova Southeastern University, 2020
- Post-Professional Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT), Des Moines University, 2010
- Master of Science (MS) in Physical Therapy, University of North Dakota, 1994
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in Physical Therapy, University of North Dakota, 1993
Dr. Zimney’s research centers on pain neuroscience education (PNE) and therapeutic alliance, exploring how patient trust, body representation, and pain education impact clinical outcomes. His work includes studies on PNE for chronic low back pain, dual-task assessments in sports rehabilitation, and the use of virtual reality (VR) to enhance pain management strategies. He has also contributed to interdisciplinary education initiatives addressing social determinants of health and cultural humility in physical therapy.
Recent articles highlight his exploration of VR for musculoskeletal conditions, PNE in elementary and middle schools, and the role of trust in therapeutic outcomes. His research trends span neuroscience, orthopedic rehabilitation, and healthcare leadership, with a focus on translating evidence into clinical practice.
- Lucy Blair Service Award, American Physical Therapy Association, 2025
- Distinguished Manuscript Reviewer, Physical Therapy Journal, 2023
- Designer, School of Health Sciences IHEC, 2019
- Outstanding Reviewer, Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 2018
- Outstanding Service Award, Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy, 2017
- USD School of Health Sciences Faculty Research Achievement, 2017
- The Harry E. Settles Contributor of the Year Award, 2013
Dr. Zimney has secured grants from the National Science Foundation, South Dakota Community Foundation, and Iowa Physical Therapy Foundation for projects involving VR applications, therapeutic alliance, and musculoskeletal research. He collaborates with interdisciplinary teams and institutions, including the Therapeutic Neuroscience Research Group and CBBRe (Center for Brain and Behavior Research), advancing pain education and rehabilitation technologies.
