Joanne Rivard (Malerba)

Education

• Doctor of Physical Therapy, MGH Institute of Health Professions
• Master of Science, Physical Therapy, MGH Institute of Health Professions
• Bachelor of Science, Physical Therapy, Boston University

License/Certifications

• License: Physical Therapy, 1981
• Certification: APTA Board Certified Clinical Specialist
• Certification: APTA Academy of Geriatrics, Certified Exercise Expert for Aging Adults (CEEAA)

About Me

I have been practicing physical therapy for over 40 years in a variety of clinical settings including acute, subacute, and outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine. I currently provide orthopedic and geriatric care in an outpatient practice. I have enjoyed teaching at Simmons since 1991 due to the focus on small class sizes, self-directed learning, and collaboration. My role is to help introduce first year students to the art and science of physical therapy. My primary teaching areas include fundamental patient care skills, kinesiology, and therapeutic biophysical agents. In my free time, I enjoy long walks, reading, and spending time with family.

Area of Expertise

Orthopedics and geriatrics

What I Teach

• DPT 632 Concepts and Skills in Physical Therapy I
• DPT 633 Concepts and Skills in Physical Therapy II
• DPT 622 Movement Science I
• DPT 623 Movement Science II

Publications/Presentations

Malerba J, Adam M, Harris BA, Krebs D. Reliability of dynamic and isometric testing of shoulder external and internal rotators. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 18:543-552;1993

Professional Affiliations & Memberships

• Membership: American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
• Membership: APTA Academy of Geriatrics

Awards

Joan Drevins Commitment to Education Award, Simmons University, 2020