Rate Professor Alicia Spittle

Professional Summary: Professor Alicia Spittle

Professor Alicia Spittle is a distinguished academic and clinician-researcher at the University of Melbourne, Australia, with a focus on pediatric physiotherapy and early intervention for infants at risk of developmental challenges. Her work bridges clinical practice and research, contributing significantly to the field of child health and neurodevelopment.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Spittle holds advanced qualifications in physiotherapy and developmental science, including:

• PhD in Physiotherapy, University of Melbourne
• Master of Physiotherapy (Pediatrics), University of Melbourne
• Bachelor of Physiotherapy, University of Melbourne

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Her research primarily focuses on:

• Early detection and intervention for infants at risk of cerebral palsy and other neurodevelopmental disorders
• Evidence-based physiotherapy practices for preterm infants
• Parental involvement and education in early childhood development

Professor Spittle’s work emphasizes translating research into clinical practice to improve long-term outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Spittle has held several key positions, reflecting her leadership in both academic and clinical settings:

• Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, University of Melbourne
• Senior Research Fellow, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute
• Clinical Researcher, Victorian Infant Brain Studies (VIBeS) group
• Honorary Physiotherapist, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Her contributions to pediatric research and physiotherapy have been recognized through numerous accolades, including:

• National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Career Development Fellowship
• Early Career Researcher Award, University of Melbourne

Key Publications

Professor Spittle has authored and co-authored numerous impactful publications in high-ranking journals. Some notable works include:

• Spittle, A. J., et al. (2014). 'Early developmental intervention programmes provided post hospital discharge to prevent motor and cognitive impairment in preterm infants.' Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
• Spittle, A. J., et al. (2010). 'General movements in very preterm children and neurodevelopment at 2 and 4 years.' Pediatrics.
• Spittle, A. J., et al. (2016). 'Early intervention for preterm infants and their families: A systematic review.' Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Spittle’s research has had a profound impact on the field of pediatric physiotherapy, particularly in the development of early intervention protocols for preterm infants. Her systematic reviews and clinical trials have informed international guidelines for the care of high-risk infants, improving diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic outcomes. Her work with the Victorian Infant Brain Studies group has advanced understanding of brain development in preterm children, influencing both policy and practice globally.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Spittle is actively involved in disseminating knowledge and shaping her field through:

• Regular presentations at international conferences on child health and neurodevelopment
• Membership in expert panels for the NHMRC and other health research bodies
• Editorial roles and peer reviewing for leading journals in physiotherapy and pediatrics