Patricia Starkey

Dr. Patricia Starkey is an Assistant Professor in the Physical Therapy & Health Science Department at Bradley University's College of Education & Health Sciences. She teaches courses in orthopedics, women's health, patient education, and health promotion while practicing part-time as a Physical Therapist at Athletico Peoria North clinic. Her roles include residency mentor leadership and adjunct faculty instruction through Evidence in Motion.

• Education
• B.S. in Kinesiology and Health, Iowa State University
• D.P.T., Bradley University
• Ph.D. in Leadership in Health and Human Performance (in progress), Concordia University - Chicago

Dr. Starkey's research focuses on interdisciplinary connections between orthopedic diagnoses and women's health, particularly examining pelvic floor strength in relation to balance, jump mechanics, and injury prevention in sports. She also investigates patient and therapist communication trends, integrating emotional intelligence and pain science into her work.

As a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist with trigger point dry needling expertise, she maintains active clinical practice alongside her academic responsibilities. Her campus service includes participation in the DPT Alumni Outreach Committee, while community engagement involves Alzheimer's Association volunteering and activities with St. Vincent de Paul parish and Peoria Notre Dame high school.