Suzanne McDonough

Professor Suzanne McDonough is a Professor and Head of RCSI School of Physiotherapy. Suzanne holds a professorial appointment at Ulster University UK, is an honorary Professor at the University of Otago NZ, and a visiting Professor with the University of Southampton. Suzanne obtained her undergraduate degree in physiotherapy at University College Dublin (UCD) in 1989; was awarded her PhD in neurophysiology from Newcastle University, UK, in 1995; and a higher diploma in healthcare (acupuncture) in 2002 from UCD.
Suzanne is expert in the development and evaluation of rehabilitation interventions in clinical populations with movement challenges (e.g. due to pain, neurological injury, ageing etc.). She is interested in the use of technology to enhance rehabilitation adherence, and promote general health and wellbeing. Examples of technology she has developed and tested in clinical trials are virtual reality in stroke; and pedometers/wearables as motivational tools to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour e.g. low back pain, respiratory disease, stroke, mental health and cancer.
Suzanne has completed five trials on exercise/walking in low back pain and supported Dr Joanne Marley to develop a physical activity intervention for people with persistent pain. Suzanne's work is referenced in the latest UK clinical guidelines for low back pain management.