06/02/2026
Meet Matthew Kuik, PT, DPT, OCS, a 2025 Promotion of Doctoral Studies Scholarship awardee who knows that great rehabilitation—much like great cheese—depends on the right balance of science, craft, and time. 🧀
Matt is a PhD student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where his research focuses on optimizing hip rehabilitation. His work explores the impact of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) and recovery outcomes following hip arthroscopy surgery, with the goal of improving both short‑ and long‑term patient outcomes.
Motivated by a desire to advance the science of rehabilitation and make a lasting impact on patient care, Matt’s transition into physical therapy research was shaped by his clinical training. As both a student and clinician, he saw how evidence‑based practice can meaningfully improve outcomes, while also recognizing gaps in knowledge that limit optimal care. These experiences ultimately led him to pursue PT research to help strengthen and inform clinical practice.
From stacking wheels of cheese for his wedding cake to stacking evidence in his research, Matt is helping rehabilitation mature thoughtfully.
Drop a 👏 or 🎉 to celebrate Matt for advancing hip rehabilitation and helping patients to keep moving forward.
