Paula Walsh, PT, DPT, MS

Paula Walsh, PT, DPT, MS, earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Saint Mary and holds a Master of Science in Sports and Health Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Prior to becoming a physical therapist, Dr. Walsh served in the U.S. Army as a Combat Medic, Combat Medic instructor, and curriculum developer.  She joined the University of Saint Mary DPT faculty in 2026.

She brings her clinical experience into the classroom focusing on developing strong clinical reasoning and preparing students to translate foundational knowledge into patient care. Her clinical practice includes pelvic health and acute care physical therapy, with specialized training in pelvic floor rehabilitation, dry needling, rehabilitative ultrasound imaging, and pessary management. Her research interests are primarily focused on pelvic health and rehabilitation. Dr. Walsh has been recognized with the APTA Kansas Outstanding Physical Therapy Student Award, the Sister Mary Kathleen Stefani DPT Award of Excellence, and the USM DPT Program Distinguished Student Award.

Dr. Walsh remains actively engaged in clinical practice while teaching and mentoring future physical therapists. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and APTA Kansas. When she is not working with students at USM, Dr. Walsh enjoys reading science fiction, hiking, and lifting heavy things.