prof. dr. Ria Nijhuis-van der Sanden

About Ria Nijhuis-van der Sanden

The research of Professor Nijhuis-van der Sanden focuses on designing clinically relevant, safe and cost-effective interventions in physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and sports. Knowledge about underlying mechanisms in motor control and motor learning is used to enhance the effectiveness of exercise interventions, while behavioral change techniques are used to increase adherence to the exercises and to realize an active lifestyle. A combination of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies is used to innovate, evaluate and implement high quality allied healthcare. After finishing a training in Physiotherapy and Pediatric Physiotherapy, Professor Nijhuis van der Sanden, worked as pediatric physical therapist and studied Social Sciences at the Open University in The Netherlands. In 2003 she finished her PhD thesis, in 2009 she started as Professor in Allied Health Sciences, since 2010 she is junior Principle Lecturer, since 2013 junior Principle Investigator and since 2014 Principle Investigator. She is vice president of the international Organisation for Physical Therapists in Pediatrics, editor of the handbook Pediatric Physical Therapy (third edition). Till now 18 candidates finished their PhD under her supervision and she is (co) author of an increasing number of international articles (> 150).