The early years, 1931-1943
Physical therapists formed their first professional association, the
American Women's Physical Therapeutic Association, in 1921 By the end of the 1930s, the association's name had changed to the American
Physiotherapy Association, men were admitted and membership grew to just under 1,000
On December 12, 1931, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) approved Virginia's first physical therapy program, originally referred to as a school This program was part of the Richmond division of the College of William and Mary, which eventually evolved into the Richmond Professional Institute, now known as Virginia Commonwealth University.
The physical therapy school was first publicly mentioned in the 1931-32 bulletin of the Richmond division of the College of William and Mary and was subsequently listed in The Physiotherapy Review.
In 1936, the Department of Physical Education launched a nine-month physical therapy program adhering to APTA standards, under the medical supervision of orthopaedic surgeon Dr Thomas F Wheeldon at his clinic located at 27 West Franklin Street, with contributions from Alice Jones, RPT.
Erma Cannon, RPT, served as the technical directors for the school
The course in anatomy was taught at the Medical College of Virginia,
6 I Evolution of Physical Therapy at MCV and VCU
Curriculum 3 after completing the fundamental work, is planned to prepare students especially for another branch of the profession, physical therapy in hospitals and clinics or as phy- sicians' aids
Two programs of study arc offered college graduates : l A one-year course in rôreation and community work is offered by the School of Social Work Sec Par~ II, page 40
2 A one-year course in physical 1herapy is offered in Rich- mond by the DeJXtrtment of Physical Education of the College of William and Mary
0NE-YEA:R CURRICULUM lN PHYSICAL THERAPY
This program is exclusively available to college graduates in physical education and graduate nurses, with a limited number of spots for students Participants who successfully finish the course will receive a certificate The curriculum adheres to the standards set by the American Physical Therapy Association.
Anatomy: 354 hours lecture and dissection_
Semester Hour Credits Physiology: 54 hours lecture; 68 hours laboratory _ 10 Physie$: 30 hours lecture; 60 hours laboratory _ _ _ _ _
Applied anatomy and muscle training: 60 hours lecture; 72 hours
Pathok)gy and s11rsieal observation: 36 hours lecture; 40 hours ob- servation - - - - Massage aod corrective cxett:ises: 36 hours lecture; 100 hours prac-
Orth~i-;;~36 hours lecture ; 60 hours -practic e , - ~ - - - - ã3
Heat, light, water and mechanical therapy: 36 hours lecture; 54 Ethi~u;~p;_:i:or 7 k-, 7 36-,-c-hour-,- - - - -_- - -_-::._-_-_-::._-::._-_-::._-_-
Unless previously completed ten semester hours in chem- istry are also required This must be taken in Summer School
Fig 1.1: Physical therapy curriculum listed in the 1931-32 Richmond Professional Institute bulletin
Fig 1.2: ''The use of cellophane as a permanent tendon sheath" by Thomas Wheeldon, M.D., appeared in the Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery in 1939
Fig 1.3: "W alking members for the bilateral amputation of thigh" by Thomas Wheeldon, M.D., appeared in the Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery in 1933
Between 1931 and 1943, human cadavers were first utilized in physical therapy training in 1936, accompanied by an $80 laboratory fee The American Medical Association recognized the physical therapy school by including it in its inaugural list of approved institutions on August 29, 1936.
The anatomy course and clinic took place at MCV, with the degree being awarded by the Richmond division of the College of William and Mary In his 1973 book, "A History of the Richmond Professional Institute," Henry H Hibbs Jr., Ph.D., notes that the college's name was changed to "Richmond Professional Institute" in 1939.
The College of William and Mary faced confusion regarding its identity, leading President John Bryan to clarify that the institution in Richmond is distinct from the one in Williamsburg He suggested renaming the Richmond campus to the "Richmond Professional Institute" (RPI), emphasizing its focus on specialized education in occupational, technological, and professional fields rather than traditional arts and sciences.
In 1962, the Virginia General Assembly established the Richmond Professional Institute (RPI) as a separate state institution Dr Hibbs, the first director of RPI, highlighted its unique offerings in a 1943 bulletin, promoting $300 scholarships and emphasizing that RPI was the only training school in the South providing courses in Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy.
Dr Wheeldon requested and received accreditation from the APTA in 1931, with the co-signature of Dr Hibbs
Dr Wheeldon (1892-1976) began his academic journey at the remarkable age of thirteen, earning a bachelor's degree in science from the University of Missouri He gained valuable experience as a lab assistant in zoology and comparative anatomy while pursuing his Master of Science degree During his time at Harvard Medical School, he contributed significantly to the field of microscopic anatomy, graduating in 1918 His sectional studies in microscopic anatomy are regarded as classics and are showcased at the Warren Anatomical Museum at Harvard After completing his training at Boston City Hospital, he relocated to Virginia.
Dr Wheeldon, a pioneering orthopaedic surgeon in Virginia, specialized in treating orthopaedic issues in children and young adults During the 1920s and 1930s, he provided care for numerous young patients using braces and prosthetics, supported by funding for his innovative treatments.
In 1930, the Kiwanis Clinic for Crippled Children, established in 1926, was integrated into the MCV outpatient department with ongoing support from the Kiwanis Club Under the leadership of Dr Wheeldon, who was aided by other surgeons, the clinic's operations expanded from once a week to three times a week MCV faculty contributed by teaching anatomy and other academic subjects, while Dr Wheeldon initiated training programs for physical therapists focused on enhancing motor development in children.
Dr Wheeldon submitted case studies from the clinic to medical journals The Under-privileged Child Committee of the Capital District Kiwanis Club wrote the following about the clinic:
The club emphasizes the significant benefits of participating in the clinic established in 1930, highlighting its comprehensive medical services and the opportunity for student training Children attending the clinic often require more than just treatment for limb deformities; they may need additional medical care, which is readily available from a diverse range of specialists The importance of educating future medical professionals is paramount to ensure continued support for this essential work Since its inception in 1927, the club has contributed $4,250, treating 2,577 patients in its first year.
Between 1929 and 1930, the club significantly contributed to patient care, treating a total of 10,986 patients over the years In 1929, they subscribed $3,286.69, which helped treat 2,495 patients, while in 1930, a subscription of $1,800 led to the treatment of 2,963 patients The club expresses gratitude to the dedicated physicians who served at the clinic, including Dr Thomas F Wheeldon, Dr Blair Fitts, Dr D.M Faulkner, Dr J.B Dalton, and Dr Randolph Anderson.
Dr William T Sanger and the entire Executive Committee
From 1931 to 1943, the Medical College of Virginia played a crucial role in enabling us to serve children in ways that would have been impossible without their support.
Dr Wheeldon established thirteen Crippled Children Clinics in Virginia and two in North Carolina, demonstrating his commitment to supporting children with disabilities His significant contributions to this cause earned him honorary membership in Rotary International in 1950, highlighting his success and dedication in the field.
The Baruch grant, 1944-1951 n
In 1944, a pivotal moment in the evolution of physical therapy emerged with a grant from the Baruch Committee on Physical Medicine, which was later described by physical therapy chair Susanne B Hirt, RPT, M.Ed., as the "big bang" for the field This concept of supporting physical medicine as a recognized specialty traces back to 1862, when Simon Baruch, M.D., completed his medical training at MCV, then comprising the Egyptian Building and an infirmary.
Dr Baruch gained valuable clinical experience during the Civil War and later taught at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons He became a prominent advocate for hydrotherapy, utilizing different pressures and temperatures to effectively treat conditions such as rheumatism, pneumonia, and typhoid.
Dr Baruch passed away in 1920, yet his legacy in physical medicine continued through his son, financier Bernard M Baruch In 1930, the New York state legislature, supported by Governor Franklin, advanced this field further.
D Roosevelt, launched a commission with Mr Baruch as chairman, to study opportunities for the development of the Saratoga Spa facilities
In 1943, President Franklin D Roosevelt appointed Mr Baruch to a committee focused on physical medicine, tasked with exploring rehabilitation options for war-wounded soldiers.
12 I Evolution of Physical Therapy at MCVand VCU
Fig 2.1: Simon Baruch, M.D., Class of
1862, in his uniform as a Confederate surgeon The portrait was presented to the Tompkins-Mccaw Library for the Health Sciences by his grandson,
Fig 2.3: Baruch Center mission posted on the first-floor rotunda in West Hospital
In 1944, motivated by his own disability and experiences with the Warm Springs Foundation, FDR sought to advance rehabilitation concepts by collaborating with experts like Dr William T Sanger, president of MCV, and Dr Frank Krusen from the Mayo Clinic The Baruch Committee, chaired by Krusen in 1945, included notable figures such as Dr Frances A Hellebrandt, an exercise physiologist, and Lt Col Howard Rusk, who played a pivotal role in establishing physical medicine as a recognized medical discipline The committee ultimately allocated over $1 million to three medical centers—Columbia University, New York University Institute of Medical Rehabilitation, and MCV—to enhance teaching and research in physical medicine.
Dr Hellebrandt to direct the Baruch Center) Smaller grants were given to six other universities (Folz et al., 1997)
The Baruch Center of Physical Medicine at MCV was established in honor of Mr Baruch's father, with funding allocated for education and research in hydrotherapy, spa therapy, and climatology In 1944, Dr Sanger appointed Dr Hellebrandt as the overall director of the center, which was designed to include a physical therapy school and a clinical department of physical medicine, the latter of which was not established until 1947.
In the past, a "technical assistant" acted as a physician's agent in administering physical treatments The RPI physical therapy technician training school merged with the Baruch Center, and by April 1945, it was recognized as a collaborative effort with the academic programs provided by RPI, affiliated with the College of William and Mary, while MCV managed the professional education aspect Dr M.G Westmoreland from the Council on Medical played a significant role in this development.
On September 22, 1945, the American Medical Association conducted an inspection of the physical therapy school, which resulted in the accreditation of the program previously known as RPI, now relocated to a new name and location.
MCV The initial class in 1945 comprised eighteen students from eleven different states; seventy-eight percent were nurses United States Army
The evolution of physical therapy at MCV and VCU began with the integration of technicians who had provided military physical therapy into vocational rehabilitation courses supported by the G.I Bill of Rights In February 1946, MCV partnered with the United States Navy to address the urgent need for physical therapy services aimed at rehabilitating war veterans.
Josephine Buchanan, RPT, M.A., M.D., was the technical director of the physical therapy school from 1944 to 1948, after which W Jerome Lee, M.D., took over as interim medical director In 1944, Dr Hellebrandt appointed Miss Hirt as an assistant professor of anatomy, having recruited her from the University of Wisconsin; she subsequently obtained her Master of Education degree from the University of Virginia in 1956.
Dr Hellebrandt outlined three key functions of the Baruch Center: to aid the sick through effective physical therapy, to advance knowledge in physical medicine via research, and to train technical personnel in this medical field Before the war, physical medicine received less attention, but the conflict shifted focus towards disability evaluation and rehabilitation as injured soldiers entered hospitals The application of physical agents in disease treatment was prevalent, and it became evident that these methods facilitated quicker recovery for war casualties.
Dr Hellebrandt championed therapeutic exercise for rehabilitating war injuries, emphasizing three main goals: mobilizing joints, increasing strength, and enhancing coordination and movement skills She also applied these principles to poliomyelitis patients, noting that partial loss of motor units is more common than complete destruction Despite ongoing discussions about motor unit recruitment in both healthy and diseased states, skepticism and insufficient scientific research have hindered progress in the field Additionally, the tendency to teach physical therapy as a technical skill rather than a high-level academic discipline has further impeded growth in this area, as highlighted by Dr Hellebrandt and Dr Ernst Fischer from the Department of Physiology at MCV.
1945 yearbook: "The advances in our general knowledge of physiology,
Between 1944 and 1951, Dr Hellebrandt focused on advancing education and research related to vascular regulations, lymph formation and transport, the autonomic nervous system's actions, and photodynamic reactions His work aimed to enhance our understanding of how different therapeutic agents can affect bodily functions and pathological processes.
Dr Fischer headed the research laboratory; Clifton B Cosby, M.A., was an assistant professor of biophysics who directed the applied phys- ics laboratory; and Dr Hellebrandt led the clinical research laboratory
Mr Baruch initially sought to highlight hydrotherapy in honor of his father; however, after analyzing water samples from different spas and warm springs and studying temperature effects, no significant benefits were found.
Whirlpool temperatures and turbulence were analyzed and the chal- lenges of seasonal influences on the control of temperature were discussed "In Richmond, cold tap water ranges from approximately
45 Fin the winter time to approximately 70 F The temperature of the hot water leaving the power plant ranges from 140 to 180 F"
Dr Fischer gained international recognition for his research on the physiological and chemical properties of denervated skeletal muscle His initial focus was on how weather conditions affected grip strength, leading him to discover that significant changes in muscle strength were observed in only a minority of subjects, with winter exerting the most considerable impact His findings contributed to the broader understanding of muscle dynamics and environmental influences.
The growth of a profession, 1952-1960
Betty Landen, PT, a 1953 graduate, recalls the striking experiences of starting the physical therapy program at the Medical College of Virginia She highlights the commanding presence of Sue Hirt, the intimidating yet awe-inspiring Pit, and the challenging anatomy lab that tested students' resolve Dr Fischer's memorable phrase, "VOT ARE YOU DOING?" captured attention during physiology mishaps, while Mrs Trainer's massage class offered an interesting challenge, particularly the first back massage session with male partners, which required a level of comfort and professionalism.
On February 5, 1954, William T Sanger, M.D., president of MCV from
Between 1925 and 1955, Susanne B Hirt, RPT, M.Ed., the department chair and associate professor, advocated for the expansion of the physical therapy baccalaureate program at MCV from one year to two Hirt acknowledged her assistant technical director, Margot Trimble, for effectively managing the schedules of various student groups, noting, "Margot told me she just loved to solve little tricky problems like that - and that was the reason that students and faculty survived."
34 I Evolution of Physical Therapy at MCV and VCU
Fig 3.1: Faculty member Alfred Szumski,
PT, Ph.D., circa 1960, who served as president of the Virginia Physical Therapy
Fig 3.3: Ann VanSant, PT, Ph.D.,
Fig 3.2: Jean Thibaut, RPT, circa 1953
Fig 3.4: Steven Gudas, PT, Ph.D., 1980
Despite Dr Sanger's concerns about a potential decline in enrollment over the next decade following the discontinuation of the twelve-month certificate course, the program successfully maintained full class sizes.
The two-year program culminated in a Bachelor of Science degree in physical therapy, requiring students to have completed at least two years of college with a minimum grade of C in all prerequisite courses These prerequisites included a year of foreign language, similar to current requirements The traditional program, established by Professor Miss Hirt and Dr Frances A Hellebrandt, emphasized extensive study of basic and applied sciences, followed by instruction in physical therapy techniques.
Most of today's students would recognize the courses except for
Thermotherapy and Actinotherapy involve the therapeutic use of radiant energy Students participate in clinical training at affiliated centers or college clinics for at least six weeks during their junior and senior years, with an additional eight weeks of summer vacation Upon completing their senior year, students engage in three months of clinical training to enhance their practical skills.
Successful completion of clinical training was evaluated by clinical supervisors and program faculty, ensuring that graduates met the necessary standards As a result, these graduates became eligible for registration in Virginia and all other states that regulate physical therapy practice.
The primary physical therapy faculty in 1958 included Miss Hirt;
The program, led by Carlton Jones, PT, M.A., Alfred Szumski, PT, Ph.D., Jean Thibaut, RPT, and Margot Trimble, RPT, was situated on the third and fourth floors of South Hospital at MCV The centrally located amphitheatre, affectionately known as the "Snake Pit," remained in use until the program's relocation to McGuire Hall in 1985 As the faculty grew, assistant professor Otto Payton, PT, Ph.D., also established his office within the program.
FAPTA, and Miss Hirt were located behind the amphitheater Offices
The evolution of physical therapy at MCV and VCU is marked by key faculty members, including Robert Lamb, PT, Ph.D., FAPTA, and Roberta Newton, PT, Ph.D., who were situated near the graduate research laboratory on the east end of the third floor On the west end, faculty members such as Ann VanSant, PT, Ph.D., FAPTA; Steven Gudas, PT, Ph.D.; Marianne "Mac" McDonald, PT; and Walter Personius, PT, Ph.D., had their offices Additionally, Nora Donohue, PT, M.S., served as the academic coordinator of clinical education, with her office located on the fourth floor.
Mr Jones, a Virginia State College alumnus who graduated in 1936, served in the Army from 1942 to 1946 After earning his physical therapy certificate in 1949 and an M.A in education in 1951 from New York University, he returned to Richmond to work at the MCV physical therapy clinic, despite the limited opportunities for black health care workers at the time.
Dr Gudas, associate professor in the Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology
In 1954, Miss Hirt recognized the urgent need for skilled faculty who could effectively blend classroom instruction with clinical teaching at the physical therapy school She hired Carlton Jones, who was already part of the clinic staff, to teach on an adjunct basis while he continued his work at the polio clinic Reflecting on this decision in her 1965 alumni address, she highlighted the significant and lasting impact Carlton has had on the program as a teacher, advisor, student counselor, and leader of various committees, noting the unique and outstanding contributions he has made throughout their long professional relationship.
In 1954, Miss Hirt appointed Mr Jones as a full-time assistant professor in physical therapy, transitioning him from his role as a physical therapy instructor and supervisor, and he was later promoted to associate professor in 1963 His expertise encompassed muscle testing, hydrotherapy, therapeutic exercise, rehabilitation, and prosthetics and orthotics According to the 1964 yearbook, students praised him as "a warm friend and an inspiring teacher," noting his patience, understanding, and dedication to the field of physical therapy as they embarked on their professional journeys.
Kathy Brannan Arle, PT, of the Class of 1970, remarked, "I was never sure at the time what I was doing in his class but throughout my career
I seemed to remember his words, his smile and his demonstrations He was a gentle soul."
Mr Jones, a pioneer in clinical education for physical therapists, established the Carlton Jones Clinical Education Award upon his retirement in 1979 Miss Hirt highlighted his nationwide reputation as a compassionate teacher and exceptional clinician when recommending him for the department's first professor emeritus He is cherished by nearly 1,000 physical therapists who have benefited from his expertise, warmth, and invaluable sense of humor.
Mr Jones continued to work part time after his retirement as a clini- cal physical therapist until his death May 7, 1991
Miss Hirt wrote, "In 1964, we were again looking for faculty and someone told me that Marianne McDonald was working at the VA
Mac, a dedicated educator, cherished her role at her Alma Mater and significantly shaped the Functional Anatomy course, which has become a hallmark of our program Her profound influence on countless physical therapy students was recognized when she received the prestigious Dorothy Baethke/Eleanor J Carlin Award at the 1983 APTA national conference in Kansas City.
Miss McDonald earned her bachelor's degree in physical education from the Woman's College at the University of North Carolina in 1954 and later graduated with a B.S in physical therapy from MCV in 1958 After working for eight years at the VA, she returned to MCV to teach anatomy, therapeutic exercise, and evaluation procedures, while also lecturing in medicine and nurse anesthesia, enhancing the program with her functional anatomy perspective Additionally, she co-chaired the admissions committee and contributed to the undergraduate curriculum committee and the Physical Therapy Advisory Committee to the State.
Board of Medicine Miss McDonald also served as president of the
She is fondly remembered for her exceptional teaching skills and warm demeanor Students noted her remarkable ability to inspire a genuine desire for learning and personal growth Many described her classes as magical, highlighting her strict yet effective approach that fosters enthusiasm and transformation in her students.
38 I Evolution of Physical Therapy at MCV and VCU
Fig 3.6: Carlton L Jones, PT, M.A., circa
Fig 3.8: Carlton L Jones, PT, M.A., demonstrating massage in the surgical amphitheatre (nicknamed the "Snake Pit"), circa 1950
Fig 3.10: Marianne "Mac" McDonald, PT, teaching functional anatomy, 1992
Fig 3.7: Carlton L Jones, PT, M.A., in the classroom, circa 1964
Fig 3.9: Marianne "Mac" McDonald, PT,
VCU and the M.S in Physical Therapy, 1969-1998
VCU and the M.S in Physical Therapy,
In 1945, Richmond Professional Institute (RPI) provided pre-professional training for candidates pursuing a B.S degree in medical sciences, while the Medical College of Virginia (MCV) took charge of the professional year in the physical therapy curriculum By 1954, the program was restructured, allowing students to complete the first two years of coursework, including prerequisites, at RPI or another university, followed by the final two years at MCV to obtain their bachelor's degree.
On July 1, 1968, the Virginia General Assembly combined the founda- tions of RPI and MCV to create Virginia Commonwealth University
In 1969, the School of Allied Health Professions was established at VCU's MCV Campus, with the School of Physical Therapy becoming its Department of Physical Therapy Since its founding, the School has earned a strong reputation among allied health schools Thomas C Barker, Ph.D., served as the first dean after previously chairing the School of Hospital and Health Administration for two years.
Following the national trend, other departments in the school included Hospital Administration ( changed to Health Administration in 1972), Medical Technology and Radiation Sciences Susanne Hirt,
44 I Evolution of Physical Therapy at MCV and VCU
RPT, M.Ed., became chair of the Department of Physical Therapy, and Otto Payton, PT, Ph.D., FAPTA, became director of the graduate division of the department
The advanced Master of Science program was reestablished due to federal traineeships provided by allied health manpower legislation, enabling numerous physical therapists to pursue an advanced master's degree Notable theses produced between 1970 and 2001 exemplify the program's impact and contribution to the field.
Marty Clendenin: "Influence of the cutaneous application of ice on isolation and control of single motor units in humans,"
Yu-Ying Liu Han: "Influence of continuous and pulsed ultra- sound on scar tissue in rats," 1973
Matilda Selle: "The use of an electrogoniometer as a training device in knee motion," 1974
Gad Alon: "Changes in integrated electrical activity of selected muscle groups around the hip joint during skill acquisition,"
Steven Gudas: "Metastatic patterns and functional disability in disseminated breast carcinoma," 1975
Ann VanSant: "The relationship between standing posture and equilibrium abilities of the spastic cerebral palsied child,"
Damien Howell: "Investigation of the relationship between exercise and Type A behavior as defined by Morris Friedman,"
Daniel Kahsar: "The effects of semi-rigid ankle orthoses on selected gross motor skills," 1978
Paul Beattie: "The reliability of the attraction method of mea- suring spinal backward bending," 198_5
VCU and the M.S in Physical Therapy; 1 969-1998 I 45
Suzanne Seay: "Illness behavior questionnaire as a predictor of problematic and aproblematic patients with a painful upper extremity," 1986
Annabel Lewis: "Age-related differences in component action during rolling in children," 1987
Martha Walker: "A photographic method for describing posture," 1987
Philip McClure: "Inter-tester reliability of clinical tests for medial knee ligament integrity," 1987
Cheryl Ford-Smith: ''Age differences in movement patterns used to rise from a bed: A study of middle adulthood," 1989
Janet Kues: "A study of the relationships between measure- ments of muscle performance," 1990
Kelley Fitzgerald: "Exercise induced soreness after concen- tric and eccentric isokinetic muscle contractions," 1990
Kimberly Kothe: "Single point pressure perception: Norma- tive values for the plantar surface of the foot and age related changes," 1993
Kevin Lawrence: "Alignment of the sacroiliac joints in normal subjects: An intertester reliability study," 1994
Susan Heald: "The shoulder pain and disability index:
The criterion-related validity and responsiveness of a health- related quality oflife index," 1996
Alice Peay: "The effect of static stretching of the ankle on balance of geriatric subjects with range of motion limitations,"
In 1985, the Virginia Department of Transportation sought to acquire South Hospital, prompting the Department of Physical Therapy to relocate to the second floor of McGuire Hall, which was subsequently named in honor of its significance.
46 I Evolution of Physical Therapy at MCV and VCU
Hunter Holmes McGuire, M.D., was MCV's first post-Civil War surgery professor and recognized as the leading expert on gunshot wounds to the abdomen In response to the disorganization among professional schools, he established the University College of Medicine in 1893 at the former home of Confederate Vice President Alexander Hamilton Stephens The college included a 63-bed hospital and incorporated dentistry, nursing, and pharmacy programs After a significant fire in 1910, the building was remodeled and renamed McGuire Hall following the college's merger with MCV in 1913 The adjacent Virginia Hospital functioned as the outpatient department until 1938, when services relocated to the A.D Williams Clinic.
125 Years of the Medical College of Virginia, "The old hospital building was razed in 1956 to make way for the McGuire Hall Annex" (Hoke, 1963)
In the mid-1980s, during the transition from South Hospital to McGuire Hall, the faculty comprised notable professionals including Marianne "Mac" McDonald, PT; Steven Gudas, PT, Ph.D.; Damien Howell, PT, M.S., OCS; Walter Personius, PT, Ph.D.; Ann "Vance" VanSant, PT, Ph.D., FAPTA; Roberta Newton, PT, Ph.D.; Jules Rothstein, PT, Ph.D., FAPTA; and Robert Lamb.
The Department of Physical Therapy is located on the second floor, accessible via the grand staircase at the Clay Street entrance, which features a bust of Hunter Holmes McGuire at the landing Mary S Shall, PT, Ph.D., began her teaching career in this distinguished department.
In 1991, Dr Shall often worked on lectures during weekends, sometimes bringing her husky dog for security On their first visit, the dog sat in front of the McGuire statue, seemingly seeking permission to enter Eventually, he stood on his hind legs, sniffed the statue, and then proceeded up the stairs to Dr Shall's office in the annex.
The first office at the top of the stairs, located above the front door, was initially occupied by Miss McDonald and later by Thomas P Mayhew, PT, Ph.D., who joined the department in 1989 This office was connected to a small wet lab dedicated to histology research Adjacent to the stairs was a small classroom that provided access to a student lounge, but students could only use the lounge during lunch or after class As a result, students often studied in the stairwell at the opposite end of the building, in other classrooms, or across the street.
The Tompkins-McCaw Library for the Health Sciences at VCU featured a spacious classroom on the second floor, equipped with large wooden tables ideal for studying models and taking notes The classroom's windows offered views of the quadrangle and allowed for a refreshing breeze, provided noise levels permitted their opening.
The third classroom and teaching laboratory occupied the entire width of the second floor of the annex, featuring doors at both ends Access to the faculty areas required navigating to a different floor, as it was necessary to bypass the classroom Additionally, the space was affected by a loud air conditioning unit and leaking windows during rainfall Eugene P Trani, Ph.D., served as the president of VCU during this time.
From 1990 to 2009, significant construction took place on the university's two main campuses, including the Ambulatory Care Center located near McGuire Hall Annex, where lectures often competed with the noise of pile drivers A large biomechanics research laboratory was established at the far west end of the department, offering facilities for muscle biopsy and exercise studies using equipment like the Kin-Com and treadmills, with many students contributing their muscle and energy to these research projects Additionally, a teaching lab was situated in the basement of the annex.
At the conclusion of their two-year study, students often honored their professors by posting humorous anecdotes and memorable quotes on their doors, ensuring they would not be forgotten In one memorable instance, students creatively traced the pain pathway from their large classroom in McGuire to Dr Shall's neuroanatomy classroom, humorously questioning whether the pathway represented their feelings about the course or the professor Regardless, this unique project demonstrated their understanding of the pain pathway.
In the late 1980s, the profession underwent significant changes, prompting Dr Payton and Dr Lamb to propose an entry-level Master of Science degree Their innovative vision aimed to enhance the educational standards and qualifications within the field.
1985, it didn't gain approval until 1989, and the first class graduated with an M.S in 1992
In 1990, the two-year program led to a degree of Master of Science in
Students entering the Physical Therapy program typically have completed a minimum of three years of college, equating to ninety semester hours, and possess a grade-point average of at least 2.7 The majority hold a bachelor's degree, with the average GPA of incoming students ranging from 3.3 to 3.4.
48 I Evolution o f Physical Therapy at MCV and VCU
The Doctor of Physical Therapy, 1999-2011
The Doctor of Physical Therapy, ã 1999-2011
In 1999, the department relocated to the remodeled basement of West Hospital, enhancing its research and teaching facilities This move marked a significant development, culminating in the naming of the primary faculty meeting room as the Susanne Hirt Conference Room.
The program honors the legacy of a pioneering woman who significantly contributed to its development over the years Faculty offices are strategically connected to classroom computers, facilitating last-minute lecture revisions Each class comprises fifty-four students, who commence their studies with anatomy under the guidance of department Chair Thomas P Mayhew, PT, Ph.D The dissection laboratory in Sanger Hall features advanced technology, including down draft systems for each cadaver tank, ensuring minimal formaldehyde odor By the end of the first summer, students assist professors Mary Snyder Shall, PT, Ph.D., and Sheryl Finucane, PT, Ph.D., in extracting brains from cadavers for use in the functional neuroanatomy course in the fall semester.
Support beams in the classrooms create challenges for students trying to view all the whiteboards, particularly when Dr Shall illustrates cross-sections of the central nervous system Conversely, some students find these beams useful for avoiding visibility As the fall semester approaches, students will start observing patients in the hospital.
68 I Evolution of Physical Therapy at MCV and VCU
Fig 5.4: Peter Pidcoe, PT, D.P T., Ph D., in the biomechanics movement lab
Fig 5.2: Stacey Dusing, PT, Ph.D., in her motor development lab
Fig 5.3: Lori Michener, PT, Ph.D., ATC, SCS, in her lab
Fig 5.5: Mary Snyder Shall, PT, Ph.D., test- ing the VEMP of a baby, circa 2007
Fig 5.6: The cardiopulmonary exercise lab of Ross Arena, PT, Ph.D., PAHA, FACSM, FAACVPR, 2001
The Doctor of Physical Therapy program, established in 1999 and continuing until 2011, is conveniently located across the street It offers courses in rehabilitation and professionalism, preparing students for their future careers Since 1931, students have engaged in hands-on practice, utilizing essential tools of the trade such as parallel bars, mats, transfer belts, blood pressure cuffs, and stethoscopes.
In 2008, the infant care center was relocated from the basement of West Hospital to an expanded day care center on the first floor of D Deck, enhancing convenience for parents with a single drop-off point The modern toddler day care center, originally part of the parking deck built in the 1990s, replaced the previous location on the Monroe Park Campus This consolidation not only streamlined child care services but also freed up space for the Department of Physical Therapy to establish student teaching and research laboratories in the vacated area.
In the basement of West Hospital, a former prisoner-holding area was situated near an alley designated for the secure unloading of inmates This space featured a door marked "No weapons beyond this door," through which guards escorted prisoners to their hospital appointments In 2009, the prisoner-holding area was relocated to the new Critical Care Hospital, creating a need for significant remodeling of the vacated space Meanwhile, the physical therapy program anticipated the opportunity to expand into the basement area.
The A.D Williams Clinic building was built on Marshall Street in
In 1938, the A.D Williams Clinic was established with donations from Adolph D Williams, a longtime friend and patient of Hunter McGuire, to address the pressing need for an outpatient clinic due to overcrowding at Memorial Hospital In 1941, West Hospital was constructed and seamlessly connected to the A.D Williams Clinic Although both buildings are historic, the clinic faced demolition in 2010, prompting the relocation of its basement offices and laboratories to a remodeled area in 2009 The expanded teaching laboratories now feature high-low plinths, mats, a mock hospital room for patient simulations, and a popular student lounge Additionally, the research facilities have grown to include the Motor Development Lab led by Stacey Dusing, PT.
The COOR Lab, led by Lori Michener, PT, Ph.D., ATC, SCS, focuses on clinical biomechanics and orthopedic outcomes research Additionally, the Center for Engineering and Biomechanics Research, directed by Peter Pidcoe, PT, D.P.T., Ph.D., contributes to advancements in biomechanical studies Furthermore, Dr Shall's research on sensorimotor plasticity explores the adaptive capabilities of the nervous system in response to movement and sensory input.
7 0 I Evolution of Physical Therapy at MCV and VCU
At the VCU Pauley Heart Center, Dr Ross Arena, a distinguished researcher in heart failure, conducts his studies in the Cardiopulmonary Exercise Lab Meanwhile, Dr Cheryl Ford-Smith gathers research data at the North Hospital physical therapy clinic, often collaborating with Dr Shall, who transports equipment for measuring vestibular evoked myogenic potentials Interestingly, the network of tunnels built beneath the buildings in the 1940s remains, although only a portion of them is still in use.
As the 1990s drew to a close, the faculty formed a proposal for a three-year program awarding the Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.)
R Scott Ward, PT, Ph.D., former president of the American Physical Therapy Association, emphasized the importance of evidence-based care in his 2006 statement to The Chronicle of Higher Education, highlighting that the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is essential for achieving optimal patient outcomes Today's physical therapy practice necessitates extensive educational preparation, which is challenging to attain within the limited timeframe of a traditional professional master's program.
89 credits in three years and needed more emphasis on diagnosis and prognosis as described below
In June 2001, Dr Shall, serving as the interim chairman, successfully advanced the D.P.T proposal through the university's levels to the Board of Visitors and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, following Dr Lamb's retirement in 2000 This milestone led to the graduation of the first D.P.T students.
2003 under the leadership of the current department chairman,
The three-year Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) program has undergone significant enhancements, focusing on diagnosing and prognosing individuals with impairments and disabilities, as well as assessing changes in physical function and health status It places a greater emphasis on patient safety, the efficiency of interventions, and the promotion of optimal health while preventing disability Prospective students must hold a bachelor's degree prior to admission, and the program now requires the completion of an additional course in abnormal psychology and a course in speech and public speaking alongside the existing prerequisites.
The Doctor of Physical Therapy, 1999-2011 I 71
D.P.T students at VCU engage in a comprehensive clinical education program totaling thirty-six weeks Their first clinical experience spans four weeks during the summer following their first academic year, followed by an eight-week experience after the second year The program culminates with three consecutive eight-week clinical rotations in the third academic year, running from late October to April Additionally, students accrue around eighty part-time clinical hours integrated into their academic courses.
VCU's Department of Physical Therapy currently affiliates with approximately 250 clinical sites throughout the continental United
Most clinical sites for D.P.T students are located in the mid-Atlantic region, although there are some opportunities to travel to other locations across the country Students must complete clinical experiences in three primary areas: acute care, outpatient orthopaedics, and rehabilitation Additionally, they can pursue specialty clinical experiences in fields such as pediatrics, women's health, cancer rehabilitation, and sports medicine, with the option to select more traditional areas for their final two experiences.
The demand for a transitional D.P.T was strong, so a tD.P.T program was developed in 2004 under the guidance of Karen Sparrow, PT, Ph.D
The tD.P.T program, requiring fifteen to twenty-one credit hours, is tailored for practicing clinicians, enhancing their professional education to align with evolving standards in physical therapy Since its inception in January 2005, the program has primarily been delivered online, supplemented by two to three on-campus weekend sessions for hands-on training.
D.P.T., Ed.D., took over the coordination of the program in 2008
The first doctoral programs, developed in the early 1980s, allowed physical therapists to obtain a doctorate through the School of Basic