Murray Maitland, PT, PhD, has been honored as a Catherine Worthingham Fellow of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). This recognition is the APTA's highest membership category, awarded to individuals who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to advancing the physical therapy profession for over 15 years. This award was presented at the APTA Leadership Congress on June 21.
Dr. Maitland is an associate professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine. He teaches in our Doctor of Physical Therapy program in orthopedics, differential diagnosis, and imaging. He also has a research focus on prosthetic feet and hands. His work encompasses musculoskeletal biomechanics, clinical tests, joint replacements, and rehabilitation techniques. With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Maitland has significantly contributed to the field through numerous peer-reviewed research papers and academic publications. He also serves on the editorial boards of two journals and regularly reviews for various academic journals and grant sponsors.
In addition to his academic and research accomplishments, Dr. Maitland is actively involved in state and national physical therapy service and governance. He is a member of the Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Imaging Special Interest Group Research Committee and holds the position of Washington State Chief Delegate for the APTA.
Dr. Maitland received his Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation from the University of British Columbia in both physical and occupational therapies. He earned his MSc in anatomy from the same institution, followed by a PhD in Clinical Biomechanics from the University of Calgary. He joined the University of Washington's Department of Rehabilitation Medicine in 2006, where he has since been an integral part of the faculty.
One of Dr. Maitland's notable achievements is the development of the META arc prosthetic foot in 2021. This prosthetic foot, designed in partnership with WillowWood, LLC, addresses the challenges faced by individuals with lower limb loss, such as traversing uneven ground and slopes. The META arc has been praised for its ability to enhance mobility and quality of life for its users.
With a distinguished career marked by significant contributions to physical therapy, Dr. Maitland's recognition as a Catherine Worthingham Fellow is a testament to his dedication and impact on the field. Congratulations to Dr. Maitland on this well-deserved honor.