Department of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science

Professional Background
Dr. Pohl is co-Chairperson of the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science and director of the Doctor in Physical Therapy program.  She is teaching the physical therapy documentation and control of human movements courses in the DPT program. Dr. Pohl is recognized internationally on her research in neurological physical therapy.

Academic Background
Dr. Pohl first entered the field of physical therapy by earning a Bachelor of Science in physical education from Adelphi University in Garden City, N.Y. Pohl then continued her education with a Master of Science in education from Queens College and a Master of Science in physical therapy at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, Calif. Dr. Pohl taught at USC and also the University of California - Berkeley and then received a PhD in Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy from USC. In 1995, Pohl joined the Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science at the KU Medical Center.

Research Focus
Dr. Pohl’s research is centered on post-stroke neurological rehabilitation.  By investigating the effects of unilateral lesions on bilateral upper extremity control, and also the relationship of cognition and post-stroke function recovery, Dr. Pohl is working to decrease disabilities for adults with neurological deficits.

Lab Group Site

Functional Performance Laboratory

Working to provide scientific evidence for developing best practices in the reduction of disability for adults with neurological deficits. Specifically, the lab is focused on determining what post-stroke motor control and cognitive deficits are not being revealed by standard clinical measures.
Selected Recent and Current Grants

Patricia S. Pohl (PI)
Cost of Conversation After Stroke
Purpose: To determine the relationship between site of brain damage after stroke and dual task performance.
American Heart Association - Heartland Affiliate