Research Physical Therapist

Research Interests:
Neurological Disorders Impact on Locomotion
Brain & Spinal Cord Injury

Biography

Dr. Pettigrew is a key member of the Traumatic Brain Injury Clinical Trial at the Center for Regenerative Medicine. In this study, she designs and implements individualized physical therapy interventions with research subjects in conjunction with the PoNS^TM device to improve subject's balance and walking ability. Additionally, she is assisting with the development of the Center for Regenerative Medicine's spinal cord injury projects.

Other areas of research Dr. Pettigrew has been involved in include the synchronization of gait during side by side walking, prevention of anterior cruciate ligament injury, and comparing maximal aerobic capacity and maximal force production to body composition. Dr. Pettigrew's clinical background includes working with diverse patient populations in pediatrics, acute care, and outpatient orthopedics. She continues to work in skilled nursing facilities in the Portland metro area. 

When not working in the clinic or lab, Dr. Pettigrew can be found out exploring the pacific northwest or in the gym training for kickboxing. Originally from San Diego, CA, but with family all along the west coast, she frequently travels to visit family and to train at a variety of boxing gyms. Dr. Pettigrew also enjoys volunteering for the homeless, studying culture, and trying out as many Portland eateries as possible.