Meet Karen Abraham, PhD, PT, Associate Editor

Introducing the People Behind the JWHPT: Meet Karen Abraham, PhD, PT, one of our our esteemed associate editors (Based in Winchester, VA).

WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND?

I have been a physical therapist for 30 years. I began my career as an orthopedic clinical specialist but have spent the past 20 years focusing on the care of women and men with pelvic floor dysfunction and also pre- and post-partum care. After earning my PhD in Anatomy and Cell Biology, I joined the faculty in the Division of Physical Therapy at Shenandoah University where I taught in the anatomy, musculoskeletal, research, and pelvic health curricula and served as the director or the Division. I currently am the dean of the School of Health Professions. I love that I still have the opportunity to teach some in the entry-level and post-professional DPT programs and continue to provide physical therapy services as a volunteer with the Sinclair Health Clinic, a community-based health center for low income individuals in need.  

WHY DO YOU CHOSE TO VOLUNTEER WITH JWHPT?

I am passionate about the role of physical therapists in pelvic health and am committed to advancing the science supporting our practice. Being an associate editor allows me to participate in the manuscript review process but also allows me to participate in the growth and development of the Journal. I look forward to the JWHPT being widely recognized as the leading international publication in women’s and pelvic health physical therapy.   

HOW ARE YOU ADAPTING DURING THIS GLOBAL HEALTH CRISIS?

Shenandoah University, like most other universities, transitioned in mid-March to fully on-line education. It has been challenging to navigate the COVID-19 situation with so many unknowns. Thankfully, I am safe at home with my husband and two teenage children (if being home with teenagers can be considered safe). We have been tackling long overdue house projects in our free time and trying to get a workout in here and there. I look forward to being back on campus with students and faculty and back in the clinic.