Teresa Pierce, PT, DPT, PhD, PCS, an assistant professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at PCOM Georgia, recently received first place for the New Investigator Research Award at the 2025 annual meeting of the Association of Children’s Prosthetic-Orthotics Clinics (ACPOC).
The award, presented by ACPOC President Phoebe Scott-Wyard, DO, was given in recognition of Pierce’s research presentation, “The Effects of Orthoses Optimization on Gait Biomechanics and Function in Children with Cerebral Palsy: An Exploratory Study.” Delivered as part of the conference’s educational sessions, her study explores how tailoring orthotic devices can enhance gait mechanics and functional outcomes in children diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
Held April 9–12 in Dallas, Texas, the ACPOC annual meeting provided a forum for healthcare professionals and educators to share advances in the care and treatment of children and adolescents with orthopedic impairments. This focus aligns with Pierce’s research interests in biomechanical dysfunction in pediatric populations and the effectiveness of orthotic interventions in supporting function and preventing deformity.
Pierce brings extensive clinical and academic experience to her role as a physical therapist and educator. She has led numerous workshops and seminars on pediatric therapy, infant and toddler development, family-centered interventions, and the role of orthoses in improving pediatric gait. She is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Physical Therapy Association, the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy, the Academy of Physical Therapy Education, and the American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine.
Her recognition at ACPOC reflects the commitment of PCOM Georgia’s DPT program to evidence-based education and research.
