Lang Appointed Norton Professor of Physical Therapy
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Catherine E. Lang Inaugurated as First Barbara J. Norton Professor of Physical Therapy at Washington University in St. Louis
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The WashU Medicine Program in physical Therapy marked a significant milestone on February 29, 2024, with the installation of Catherine E. Lang as the inaugural Barbara J.Norton Professor of Physical Therapy. This professorship, the program’s first named professorship, recognizes Lang’s contributions to stroke recovery research and honors the legacy of long-serving faculty member Barbara J. Norton.
A Landmark Achievement for WashU Physical Therapy
The establishment of the Barbara J. Norton Professorship signifies Washington University in St. Louis’s commitment to advancing research within its Program in Physical Therapy.According to a WashU Medicine news release, the professorship is the program’s first named professorship, a testament to the growing prominence of the department.
Catherine E. Lang, a leading researcher in stroke recovery and rehabilitation, was installed by David H. Perlmutter, MD, executive vice chancellor for medical affairs and dean of WashU Medicine. Lang’s work centers on developing effective, individualized rehabilitation strategies for individuals recovering from stroke and other neurological injuries.
Catherine E. Lang’s Research Focus
Lang’s research is distinguished by her innovative use of wearable movement sensors. Thes sensors allow for quantitative measurement of patient movement in real-world settings, providing a more accurate picture of neurobehavioral recovery than customary clinical assessments. This data-driven approach helps tailor rehabilitation programs to individual patient needs, maximizing thier potential for betterment.
Her work aims to identify the key variables influencing the speed and extent of recovery after neurological injury. Lang has led numerous studies investigating interventions to enhance the effectiveness of rehabilitation,focusing on personalized approaches.
Honoring Barbara J. Norton’s Legacy
The professorship is named in honor of Barbara J. Norton, a WashU Medicine professor of physical therapy with over 50 years of service – the longest tenure of any faculty member in the program.Norton played a pivotal role in integrating research into the physical therapy curriculum, fostering a culture of inquiry and evidence-based practice.
Chancellor Andrew D. Martin emphasized the meaning of naming the professorship after Norton, stating, according to the WashU Medicine report, “Establishing it in honor of Professor Barbara Norton…serves as a fitting tribute to the program’s culture of excellence.”