Rate My Professor William Hanney

William J. Hanney is a professor of physical therapy and Chair of the Division of Physical Therapy in the Department of Exercise Physiology & Rehabilitation Science at the University of Central Florida's College of Health Professions and Sciences. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training from the University of West Florida, Master of Science and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, and PhD from Nova Southeastern University, studying predictive variables for patients with neck pain likely to benefit from exercise-based treatment. As a licensed physical therapist, Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Hanney has served as faculty at UCF since 2004, progressing from instructor to associate professor and professor. He was appointed Chair of the Division of Physical Therapy in September 2022 after serving as interim chair and director of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Hanney's research focuses on treatment outcomes for patients with low back and neck pain, the influence of manual and manipulative therapy, standardization of physical therapy interventions, and physical therapy practice patterns. He directs the Spine & Mobility (SAM) Lab, conducting interdisciplinary research to advance examination and treatment of spine and movement disorders. With over 75 peer-reviewed manuscripts published in journals such as the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, Physical Therapy, Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, key works include 'The reliability and concurrent validity of shoulder mobility measurements using a digital inclinometer and goniometer: a technical report' (2012), 'Timing of rehabilitation on length of stay and cost in patients with hip or knee joint arthroplasty: a systematic review with meta-analysis' (2017), and 'Immediate physical therapy initiation in patients with acute low back pain is associated with a reduction in downstream health care utilization and costs' (2018). He presents nationally and internationally on rehabilitation and sports medicine topics. Awards include the 2019 National Strength and Conditioning Association Sports Medicine Professional of the Year, Florida Physical Therapy Association Award for Scholarly Impact on Practice, induction into UCF's Scroll & Quill Society (2018), Teaching Incentive Program Award (2021), and election to the National Academies of Practice. Hanney has led grants as principal investigator for the Elizabeth Morse Genius Foundation and served as co-investigator for projects funded by the New York Physical Therapy Association.