Elon’s School of Health Sciences welcomed two new classes of graduate students to the university community this week.Doreen Stiskal, P.T., Ph.D. Department Chair and Associate Professor Department of Physical Therapy McQuaid Hall Room 204 Doreen Stiskal, P.T., Ph.D. I have been a member of the Seton Hall University community since 1996, and currently am the Chair of the Department of Physical Therapy with a rank as Associate Professor. I also hold a clinical faculty position in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at New Jersey Medical School of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at St. Joseph's Medical Center in Paterson, NJ.My areas of teaching include courses relating to kinesiology, therapeutic exercise and research methods. I lecture extensively on topics concerning rheumatic disease and orthopedic dysfunction. Through my experiences in curriculum development, technology and instruction, I serve as an on-site team member for the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education.My research is in the area of musculoskeletal dysfunction and joint disease across the life span, biomechanical issues of gait and posture, and chronic disease and public health outcomes.

Current projects include investigations regarding the influences of carrying backpacks on walking function. Previous studies have included evaluating walking patterns in adolescents with juvenile arthritis and evaluating improvements in pain, stiffness and function in adults with knee osteoarthritis. Some of this research has been supported by research grants from two leading pharmaceutical companies and research sub-grants from the Arthritis Foundation, New Jersey Chapter and National Office. PhD, Seton Hall University MS, Long Island University BS, Boston University Awards:National Volunteer Service Citation, Arthritis Foundation, National Office, 1989Archbishop McCarrick Outstanding Educator Award, Seton Hall University, School of Graduate Medical Education, June 19991999 Volunteer Leadership Award: Volunteer Program, Arthritis Foundation, National Office, November 2000Community Service Award, American Physical Therapy Association of New Jersey, April 2002Many Are One Alumni Service Award, School of Graduate Medical Education and Alumni Relations, University Advancement

, Seton Hall University, April 2005The Robert Salant Research Award, APTA of New York State for Stiskal DM, Borawski J, Schuck J, Tholany J, Torcivia P, Walter V, Yeon H (2010). samsonite cityvibe 16 laptop backpack reviewInfluences of a loaded backpack on knee movement during gait.kingsford leather backpack buyBest Health Sciences Research Award, SHMS Research Colloquium for Stiskal DM, Kurian C, Negron K, Acosta C, Aguiar A, Head M, Paonessa D. Influences of a loaded backpack on hip motions during gait (2011).pechino backpackGrants:"Safety, efficacy and duration of Hyalgan® and exercise therapy treatment for pain of osteoarthritis of the knee". tumi alpha bravo cannon backpack price

Principal Investigator: Stitik, Todd, UNDMJ-NJMS. m6800 backpack2 Years: grant awarded: 12/00."echo backpack blower pb-500t priceThe Effect of Celecoxib on Gait and Functional Performance in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients" Principal Investigators: Stitik, Todd, UNDMJ-NJMS and Stiskal, Doreen, Seton Hall University. Role: Co-Principal investigator for bi-institutional study. 1 year grant: awarded: 6/04.Celebrate the 5th Annual Dump the Pump Day with Free Bus Rides! Patients, Families & Visitors Patient & Visitor Resources Stair Climbing With Crutches Going up the stairs Hold onto the hand rail with 1 hand. Hold both crutches under your opposite arm. If there is no hand rail, keep 1 crutch under each arm. Crutches should be in the middle of the step, away from the edge. Start close to the bottom step.

Keep the crutches on the step where you are standing. Step up with your stronger leg (see image at right). Push down on your crutches, and then step up with your weaker leg. Once both feet are on the same step, bring your crutches up Check your balance before you move to the next step. Repeat 1 through 6. Going down the stairs Start near the edge of the step. Put your crutches down on the next step. Step down with your weaker leg. Step down with your stronger leg. Tips for going up and down the stairs There is a simple saying to help you remember how to go up and down the stairs with your crutches. It is, “Up with the good, down with the bad.” This means that when you are going up the stairs, you should lead with your stronger, or “good,” leg. When you are going down the stairs, you should lead with your weaker, or “bad,” leg. The crutches support your weaker leg.Your doctor may tell you that you are not allowed to put your weaker foot down on the ground at all (non-weight bearing).

In this case when going up steps, bend your knee and keep your foot behind you. When coming down stairs, extend your weaker leg in front of you. If the steps are narrow and there are no railings, you may have to sit on each step. You can move up and down the stairs on your buttocks. You can do this whenever you feel unsteady or unsure of yourself. It is also a good idea to make sure someone is nearby in case you need help. You will get more comfortable as you continue to use your crutches. Once you feel comfortable, you can step with your weaker leg and the crutch at the same time. Tips for walking with crutches Carry items in a backpack. Do not hang or lean on your crutches. Support all your weight on your hands, not under your arms. Maintain good posture when walking. Wear shoes that fit well, support your feet, and are comfortable. Be careful when walking on uneven or wet surfaces. Walk at a safe, comfortable pace. Your therapist may show you different ways to move safely, depending on your situation or environment.