PhD, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Turkey
🌟 Meltem Koç is an Assistant Professor specializing in physical therapy and rehabilitation. With a rich academic background and research experience, she focuses on innovative treatments for musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in sports and orthopedic physiotherapy. She has contributed significantly to her field with numerous publications in international refereed journals. Meltem is dedicated to improving patient outcomes through a combination of dynamic and evidence-based rehabilitation techniques.
Publication Profile
Strengths for the Award
- Extensive Research and Publications: Dr. Meltem Koç has a strong research background with numerous publications in international refereed journals, highlighting her contributions to the fields of physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Her work covers a wide range of topics, including chronic pain management, telerehabilitation, musculoskeletal disorders, and the development and validation of measurement tools.
- Specialized Expertise: Her doctoral research on the effectiveness of dynamic and Kinesio taping in rotator cuff tendinopathy patients and her involvement in studies related to chronic back pain demonstrate her specialized expertise in orthopedic physiotherapy and rehabilitation techniques.
- Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Approach: Dr. Koç’s participation in multiple collaborative studies with different researchers and departments reflects her ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams, enhancing the impact and breadth of her research.
- Recognition and Involvement in Conferences: Her active participation in international conferences and presentations shows her commitment to sharing knowledge and contributing to the global academic community.
Areas for Improvement
- Focused Impact and Innovation: While Dr. Koç has published a variety of research papers, there could be more focus on high-impact studies or groundbreaking research that offers innovative solutions or new paradigms within the field of physiotherapy.
- Grants and Funding: There is limited information on obtaining major research grants or leading high-profile funded projects. Strengthening this aspect could enhance her profile for a “Best Research Award.”
- Broader International Collaborations: Expanding her collaborative network beyond her current circles and engaging in more international research projects could further establish her as a leading expert in her field.
Education
Doctoral: Gazi University, Institute of Health Sciences (2017-2022). Thesis: “Comparison of the Effectiveness of Dynamic® Taping and Kinesio® Taping Applied in Combination with a Rehabilitation Program in Patients with Symptomatic Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy” (Advisor: Prof. Dr. Deran Oskay). Master’s (Thesis): Mugla Sıtkı Koçman University, Institute of Health Sciences (2015-2017). Thesis: “Turkish Adaptation of the Back Pain Functional Scale: Validity and Reliability Study” (Advisor: Kılıçhan Bayar)Bachelor’s Degree: Gazi University, Faculty of Health Sciences (2009-2013)
Experience
🧑🏫 Assistant Professor: Mugla Sıtkı Koçman University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Physical Therapy, and Rehabilitation Department (Orthopedic Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation)
🔬 Research Assistant: Gazi University (2017-2021) and Mugla Sıtkı Koçman University (2014-2017), contributing to various academic projects in the field of orthopedic physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Research Focus
🔍 Meltem Koç’s research is centered around rehabilitation techniques for musculoskeletal disorders, dynamic and kinesio taping methods, telerehabilitation, and the development of culturally adapted measurement tools for pain and disability. Her work primarily aims to improve clinical practices and patient outcomes through innovative therapeutic methods.
Awards and Honors
🏆 Researcher in the “Turkish Adaptation of the Back Pain Functional Scale: Validity and Reliability Study,” a nationally supported project by higher education institutions.
Publications Top Notes
Koç, M. et al. (2024). The effects of connective tissue massage and classical massage on pain, lumbar mobility, function, disability, and well-being in chronic low back pain: A three-arm randomized controlled trial. Explore.
Seven, B., Gökkurt, A., Koç, M. et al. (2024). Investigation of the barriers to and functional outcomes of telerehabilitation in patients with hand injury. Journal of Hand Therapy.
Koç, M. et al. (2024). Immediate effects of Kinesio taping and Dynamic taping on acromiohumeral distance in individuals with symptomatic rotator cuff tendinopathy. Journal of Hand Therapy.
Pakeloğlu, A. C., Koç, M. et al. (2023). Comparing the reliability of the Goniometer Pro application and flexicurve for measuring thoracic kyphosis: a cross-sectional study. International Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation.
Dongaz, I. Ö., Koç, M. et al. (2023). Coronaphobia among healthcare professionals and its associations with sleep quality, physical activity, and fatigue in Turkey. International Journal of Healthcare Management.
Koç, M. et al. (2021). Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Turkish Yellow Flag Questionnaire in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The Korean Journal of Pain.
Conclusion
Dr. Meltem Koç presents a strong case for the “Research for Best Research Award” due to her extensive publications, specialized expertise, and active participation in the academic community. To strengthen her candidacy further, focusing on high-impact studies, securing significant research funding, and expanding her international collaborations could enhance her visibility and contributions in her field. Overall, her achievements and commitment to research make her a suitable contender for the award, with room for growth in targeted areas.