Susan Wilbanks

Susan Wilbanks, PhD, ATC is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Samford University's School of Health Professions. Her research focuses on chronic pain prevention after musculoskeletal injury and active learning strategies in higher education. She teaches across kinesiology courses and leads the Disability, Health, and Physical Activity minor. Dr. Wilbanks actively contributes to professional societies like the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine, where she chairs the Pain Rehabilitation Networking Group.

Educational Background:

• PhD in Rehabilitation Science, University of Alabama at Birmingham
• MS in Movement Studies in Disability, Oregon State University
• BS in Athletic Training, Creighton University

Research Interests: Chronic pain prevention through early intervention strategies, innovative teaching methods for active learning, and disability-inclusive physical activity. Her work bridges clinical practice and academic research to improve outcomes for individuals with physical disabilities.

Publication Trends: Recent work emphasizes adaptive sports performance evaluation, cognitive-behavioral approaches to insomnia, and spinal cord injury rehabilitation. Earlier studies explored FES-assisted therapies and vocational reintegration for disabled populations.

Awards:

• 2021 TolTech Most Creative Application Award
• 2015 Outstanding Doctoral Student in Health Administration
• 2013 UAB Exercise Medicine Symposium 1st Place Poster

Advising & Grants: While specific grant details aren't provided, her involvement in multiple collaborative studies indicates active grant-seeking activity. She mentors students through interdisciplinary projects in rehabilitation science and medical education.