Manali Akre
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Email
ma23628@essex.ac.uk -
Location
ESA.3.31, Colchester Campus
Profile
- Physiotherapy, Neurosciences, Transcranial magnetic stimulator, Sports rehabilitation
Biography
Manali is a PhD candidate in Sports and Exercise Medicine at the University of Essex, specializing in Sports, Rehabilitation, and Exercise Science. With over a decade of academic and clinical experience, she brings a rich background in neurosciences, rehabilitation, and evidence-based physiotherapeutic interventions. Her academic foundation is complemented by hands-on roles in both clinical and academic settings, including her last role as a Consultant Physiotherapist at Minerva Physiotherapy Clinic in Mumbai (India), where she manages rehabilitation programs and contributes to medical and legal documentation. Her passion for teaching was reflected during her tenure as an assistant lecturer, where she mentored students, conducted workshops, and facilitated clinical postings focused on neurological and sports-related conditions. An avid researcher, Manali has published several studies in peer-reviewed journals, exploring themes such as gait performance in Parkinsons disease, quality of life in elderly populations, and comparative studies on balance in athletes. Her research reflects her commitment to advancing the field through innovative, patient-centered approaches. Known for her organizational skills, empathy, and diagnostic precision, Manali Akre is deeply committed to improving patient outcomes and contributing to the academic community in physiotherapy and rehabilitation sciences.
Qualifications
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Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPTh) Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (India) (2014)
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Master of Physiotherapy (MPTh) Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (India) (2018)
Research and professional activities
Thesis
Brain neuroplasticity post anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR)
This PhD thesis investigates the neuromuscular adaptations and corticospinal function in individuals following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), with a specific focus on eccentric quadriceps muscle activity commonly involved in ACL injuries by using peripheral nerve stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation.
Supervisor: Dr Nicholas Clark (Nick), Dr Jamie Tallent
Research interests
Adaptation in corticospinal and spinal neuromuscular function in physically active male and female adults after primary unilateral anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis with novel quantitative synthesis of study methodologies and findings.
This research focuses on understanding changes in the brain and spinal cord that affect quadriceps muscle function after ACLR. Despite reconstruction, many individuals experience persistent muscle weakness and a high risk of reinjury, particularly during athletic movements like jumping or cutting. The study investigates how corticospinal excitability—the brain's ability to activate the quadriceps.
The Effect of Rhythmic Auditory Cueing on Functional Gait Performance in Parkinson's Disease.
This study examines the effect of rhythmic auditory cueing on gait performance in Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s affects movement and balance, leading to disability, and while exercise and cueing techniques have shown benefits, their impact remains unclear. The study compared conventional rehabilitation exercises with and without rhythmic auditory cueing. Results indicated significant improvements in gait performance, especially in reducing freezing of gait.
Effect of Lee Silverman Voice Therapy (LSVT) BIG Exercises on Functional Gait Performance of Parkinson’s Disease Patients
Parkinson's disease causes gait abnormalities that impact functional independence, and LSVT BIG therapy aims to improve movement amplitude. This study compares the effects of conventional rehabilitation combined with LSVT BIG therapy to conventional rehabilitation alone on functional gait performance. The results show significant improvement in gait performance, especially in Freezing of Gait and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests, after LSVT BIG therapy.
COMPARISON OF STATIC BALANCE IN MALE FOOTBALL AND GYMNASTIC PLAYERS BY USING BALANCE ERROR SCORING SYSTEM
This study compares the static balance skills of male football and gymnastics players using the Balance Error Scoring System. Results show a significant difference in static balance, with football players demonstrating inferior balance compared to gymnastics players. The study concludes that, despite the dynamic balance requirements of football, gymnastics players have superior static balance skills.
