Hao (Howe) Liu, , PT, PhD, MS, FGSA
Licensure/Certifications:
- Physical Therapy licensure
Education/Degree(s):
PT, PhD (Anatomy)
- Pathology
- Clinical Anatomy
- Neuroanatomy
- Pharmacology
- Research Design
- EBP Series I-IV
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Health Fitness and Promotion
My research focuses on improving rehabilitation therapies for individuals with neurological
conditions,
musculoskeletal disorders, and age-related decline by combining traditional methods
with innovative
interventions. Key areas include studying the effects of Tai Chi on neuroplasticity
and functional recovery,
particularly in populations with Parkinson's disease and aging individuals, and optimizing
assistive walking
devices for better mobility in the elderly and those with neurological impairments.
Additionally, I
investigate the anatomical pathways of peripheral nerves in cadavers to improve understanding
of nerve
compression and inform treatment strategies. I also explore integrating digital technologies,
such as
virtual Tai Chi programs, to enhance accessibility and rehabilitation outcomes, especially
for underserved
communities.
My service interests are extensive and multifaceted, focusing primarily on editorial
roles, clinical practice,
and academic leadership. I have been an active editorial board member for various
rehabilitation and
neuroscience journals since 2008, contributing to high-impact publications in physical
therapy, geriatrics,
and neurorehabilitation. My national service includes involvement in committees of
the American Physical
Therapy Association (APTA) and the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM),
where I’ve
held roles such as chair and mentor. Additionally, my involvement in professional
organizations,
consultative positions, and advisory roles demonstrates my commitment to advancing
research,
education, and clinical care in rehabilitation and geriatrics.
As a physical therapist and the department head, my role in the clinical enterprise
of the LSUHSC
Department of Physical Therapy is multifaceted and impactful. With extensive experience
as a per diem
therapist since 2003, I focus primarily on the geriatric population with multiple
chronic conditions,
providing holistic care that considers physical, emotional, and social aspects of
health. While my
administrative, teaching, and research responsibilities limit my time in direct patient
care, I am committed
to staying engaged with clinical practice. I plan to begin seeing patients later this
year, once faculty and
staff positions are settled, dedicating one afternoon per month to maintaining my
clinical skills. This
balance between leadership and practice reflects my dedication to advancing the academic
mission of the
department, delivering compassionate care, and ensuring that the clinical aspects
of the program
continue to evolve with high standards of evidence-based, patient-centered approaches.
at four prestigious institutions: the University of Central Arkansas, the University of North Texas Health
Science Center (UNTHSC), Allen College in Iowa, and currently, LSU Health Sciences Center in New
Orleans. Over the years, I have developed a deep commitment to fostering an enriching and supportive
learning environment that promotes both academic success and clinical competence. Teaching is the
cornerstone of my professional identity, and I strive to create an engaging, student-centered atmosphere
where students feel encouraged to actively participate, ask questions, and challenge their thinking. My
teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of translating classroom knowledge into real-world
clinical applications, fostering critical thinking, clinical decision-making skills, and a deep understanding of
course content. With 22 years of experience, I have served as the course director for Anatomy,
Neuroanatomy, Diagnostic Imaging, Pathology, Pharmacology, and the EBP (I-4) series, while also taking
on additional responsibilities as needed. Through my dedication to quality education, I aim to equip the
next generation of physical therapists with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in clinical practice.