Being a great physical therapist isn't about knowing everything. It's about recognizing that there is always more to learn. Ed Mulligan PT, DPT, AT-Ret. is a master clinician and educator and exemplifies being a lifelong learner. He reflects on his career in athletic training, physical therapy, and academia. Offering insights into understanding research, the impact of financial literacy on physical therapists, and keeping the patient at the center of care—understanding the person, not just the injury. Listen in for practical lessons on becoming a better clinician, empowering your patients, and continuing to grow throughout your career.
Edward Mulligan, PT, DPT, AT-Ret
Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy-Emeritus
Ed Mulligan has devoted more than 46 years to orthopedic and sports physical therapy, athletic training, and clinical education. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska and completed his professional physical therapy education at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He subsequently earned a post-professional master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University–Dallas and a transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Regis University.
Dr. Mulligan was recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association as a board-certified clinical specialist in sports physical therapy in 1988 and in orthopedic physical therapy in 2009. His professional leadership has included serving as Chair of the Sports Physical Therapy Specialty Council of the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, as a member of APTA’s Board of Residency and Fellowship Education, and on the Research Committee of the APTA Academy of Orthopedic Physical Therapy. He continues to serve the profession as an accreditation site reviewer for physical therapy residency and fellowship programs.
During more than 30 years in academia, Dr. Mulligan taught extensively in musculoskeletal physical therapy, business administration, and evidence-based practice. He also developed and directed both orthopedic and sports physical therapy residency programs. Most recently, he served as a core faculty member in the hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Tufts University School of Medicine in Phoenix. Although now semi-retired from full-time academia, he remains active as an adjunct faculty member, clinical educator, and consultant.
Dr. Mulligan has authored nearly 60 studies published in peer-reviewed orthopedic and sports physical therapy journals. In recognition of his sustained contributions to physical therapy education, he received the Academy of Sports Physical Therapy’s Lifetime Excellence in Teaching Award in 2017 and was inducted into the Academy’s Hall of Fame in 2020.
Dr. Mulligan and his wife, Jana Mulligan, PT, live in Euless, Texas. They have two sons: Ryan, an orthopedic surgeon, and Reid, an architect. They are also the proud grandparents of Ellie, age 13, and Bennet, age 11.
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