Melinda Oxenford, PT, DPT, PhD

Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy

Educational Background

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Education, William Carey University, 2025

Doctor of Physical Therapy, Creighton University, 2001

B.S. in Pre-Professional Studies with a Minor in Theology, University of Notre Dame, 1998

Teaching Philosophy

Foster interaction and engagement. Build trust and relationships. Appreciate and support the whole student, not just the student’s understanding of the course material. All of these contribute toward retention, wellness, and the likelihood that a student will share the same compassion with someone else.

Profile

Professional Background

Mindy has worked as a physical therapist in numerous states and settings since 2001. Beginning her formal work in academia in 2020, she now teaches full time and continues to work locally in both outpatient and home health settings.

Research Interests
- Wellness
- Geriatrics
Courses Taught
- Issues in Health Care
- Physical Agents
- PT Management I & II
- Intro to PT Exam
- Doctoral Project
- Clinical Practicum
Certifications and Memberships
- APTA Member
- Iowa-Illinois Safety Council Board of Directors
- Multiple Industrial Wellness, Safety & Prevention Specialty Trainings
- Stretch It Out Trainer
Selected Presentations

I have spoken at numerous employers, safety conferences, insurance and risk management companies and work comp symposiums in Iowa as an individual and co-presenter on topics such as Job Site Analysis, Work Comp Case Closure, Knee Injury and Prevention, Shoulder Injury and Prevention, Home Office Setup, and Telehealth.