Campus Connection

New health manuals created by doctoral students provide accessible, evidence-based information on medical conditions

At the core of physical therapy lies the ability to understand complex medical conditions, make informed decisions about them, and communicate those decisions to people without specialized knowledge. 

UW-La Crosse students in a Pathophysiology course took this mission to heart by creating Health Insight Manuals during the fall 2024 semester, a project designed not just as a learning tool but also as a valuable resource for the broader community. 

The manuals, developed under the guidance of Steni Sackiriyas, assistant professor of physical therapy, offer accessible, research-backed information about medical conditions and their management through physical therapy. Readers will explore the physiological processes associated with various medical conditions from chronic conditions like diabetes and arthritis to acute injuries and post-surgical rehabilitation.  

The Health Insight Manuals serve as tools for patients, families, and professionals to navigate healthcare, offering practical advice and evidence-informed guidelines. They reflect the importance of evaluating and presenting research findings in the management of diseases. 

UWL student JJ Langer’s group researched emphysema, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), that affects 3 million people in the U.S. and is the fourth-leading cause of death worldwide. They learned three out of four people with COPD have a history of smoking.  

“It was eye-opening to see its prevalence and the need for education on the risks of smoking,” said Langer. “This project was both enjoyable and informative, and like Steni always says, I’ll be sure to encourage my future patients to quit smoking.” 

The manuals bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world impact, says Sackiriyas. “My goal was to cultivate students’ understanding of how pathophysiology shapes physical therapy interventions and to ensure they’re prepared to impact and contribute meaningfully to healthcare teams.” 

By sharing the manuals with the public, the class aims to raise awareness about the critical role physical therapy plays in healthcare. 

“I learned more about physical therapists' vital role in preventing further complications through early recognition of symptoms, targeted interventions, optimizing movement, and promoting long-term health,” says Ellyn Lepisto, who created a manual on the Renal and Urinary System. 

The manuals are a testament to the hard work and dedication of UWL Doctor of Physical Therapy students who are not only learning but also contributing to the well-being of the community, says Sackiriyas. 

Health Insight Manual topics 

• Diabetes  
• Pathophysiology of Arthritis  
• Asthma  
• Cancer 
• Emphysema  
• Hypothyroidism  
• Kidney and Urinary System  

To request a manual, please contact Sackiriyas at ssackiriyas@uwlax.edu.  

Learn more about UWL's Physical Therapy program. 

The information in the health insight manuals is only for informational purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.