Melissa A. Tolbert

Melissa Tolbert, PT, DPT, ATC, is a tenure-track Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at Western Kentucky University (WKU). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training (2010) and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (2012) from the University of Evansville. She has over 14 years of clinical experience in orthopedic physical therapy, serving in roles related to Clinic Director and Clinical Instructor to DPT students. She is a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist and maintains clinical practice in outpatient rehabilitation. At WKU, Dr. Tolbert teaches anatomy and courses within the professional and musculoskeletal curriculum. Her research-related responsibilities within the curriculum include development and implementation of student-led scholarly projects. Dr. Tolbert’s research interests include pain neuroscience, injury prevention, dry needling, and physical therapy education. She has authored peer-reviewed publications in the International Journal of